Travelling with teens is something I have to look forward to, but those of you who are already there and searching for teen friendly destinations, try Mojácar out for size! There is so much to see and do in and around this whitewashed hilltop village that is perfectly located in a picture postcard setting nestled into the Cabrera Mountain range.
Blessed with fabulous beaches and a surrounding area that is equally stunning, Mojácar is a wonderful family holiday spot.
Travelling with younger kids? Read more about taking younger kids to Mojácar!
Exploring Mojácar
Cafés, Boutiques and Trinket Shops
This place has a fabulous history and one that still resonates throughout the culture today, but of all the settlers here in Mojácar, it was the Moors who left the most prominent legacy. You only have to take the family out for a short stroll through the narrow streets to witness the magnificent architecture and the Moorish features that stand out everywhere.
Sandwiched into the winding streets are numerous cafes, boutiques and trinket shops selling all manner of locally made arts and crafts. Every twist and turn you explore leads to a tiny and equally charming square, all of which have a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Wandering the streets is the best way to introduce the kids to local life and a culture they may never have imagined.
Best Viewing Spot
I just love the view from the Plaza Nueva and no matter whether your teenagers have appeared apparently disinterested until now, this sight will turn their heads. Magnificent panoramas over the surrounding area are the highlight, and kids with a passion for photography will have a field day. This is a fabulous place to enjoy a cocktail or coffee too.
Stay Cool!
Everyone visiting the Almería region of Spain is going to have to get used to the high temperatures that can venture into the low 40s. That said, there are plenty of opportunities to cool off. La Fuenta Mora, right at the foot of the village, has been here since the times of the Romans. People still wash their clothes here and even use the spring water to fill up their drinks canisters. Get the language loving teenagers who are studying Spanish to translate the information written on the fountain’s walls.
Recommended read: Welcome to Almería
The Indalo Man
You can’t fail to notice the endearing lucky charm symbol that appears all over this delightful village. The Indalo Man (a stick man holding a magic arc) is an icon of the Almería province and important in local culture because it is believed to protect against storms and evil. Get the kids to see how often they spot this sign in the village and then challenge them to find out more about its origin that dates back over 4500 years!
Find out more about the Indalo Man here.
Disney Myths
Can you believe that this gorgeous Andalucía village claims to have been the birthplace of Walt Disney? Local lore tells the story that he was born to a washerwoman who fled to America, before having him adopted. Kids, no matter how old, will love this version of events, especially as it has led to the council planning to rename the main square and several streets after the famous animator.
The Moors and Christians
Visit in June and you could be in time for the Moors and Christians festival, taking place over three days. It celebrates the eviction of the Moors from the village – a period in history which is taken very seriously around here.
Being a huge family event, the festivities include marching bands and locals in fancy dress engaging in staged battles that are made even more exciting by the inclusion of sabres, muskets, gunfire and smoke! Vibrant processions led by belly dancers, partygoers, the clashing of swords, and a veritable pantomime make this a colourful, lively and welcoming event.
The first night kicks off with a torchlight procession that winds its way up to the heart of the village. There is lots of drinking, eating and dancing, and the fun and frolics go on all night! This event has got to be a definite if you are here in June. Introduce your kids to something they will never have experienced before and soon enough you will all be joining in as a family.
Mojácar Playa
17km of beach make up the Mojácar Playa and only about half of this has been developed. Stunning blue waters that are reputably clean stretch out endlessly, and although this place is becoming more prominent on the tourist map, the development has not succumbed to the pitfalls of other Spanish resorts.
Get the kids involved in jet skiing, windsurfing, horse riding, sailing or canoeing and they will think you are the bee’s knees! Older teens might like to try out scuba diving, or perhaps they would prefer a round of golf; both well catered for here.
Dining Out
Great bars and lively cafes and restaurants line the seafront, many of which feature highly on the ‘hip and cool’ scale. Maui Beach is the place to send the kids if you are happy for them to have a little independence. The party here goes on all night and the atmosphere is fun fun fun!
If you prefer a more relaxed evening, then you have plenty of choice on the Playa. Neptune Beach Club, Fantasia, and Tito’s are wonderful places to dine and they all serve great food that complements their laid back, more mellow atmosphere.
Up in the old village of Mojácar, your dining experience will be extra special. Serenaded by the nocturnal crickets and enveloped by the sweet smells of herbs and spices, you can enjoy a local meal served on a candlelit terrace under the glow of a Spanish moon. If you are keen on educating your teenagers on the finer things in life, this is the way to do it.
For great restaurants in Mojácar, see these reviews.
How to Get to Mojácar
I appreciate that families travelling with teenagers need to consider the cost of travel when booking a holiday, but if you are heading to Mojácar, you have the choice of four airports to fly into. Almería, Murcia, Alicante and Granada are all possible arrival airports and there are several carriers that fly into all of these airports. Thomas Cook Airlines, Monarch, Ryanair, and easyJet serve the closest arrival port, Almería.
In less than 4½ hours you can leave the UK and be on the ground in Almería, and budget conscious travellers will be keen to know that flights can be picked up for £100 per person.
Getting to Mojácar from Almería could not be easier with Shuttle direct, whether you want a transfer to your accommodation or straight down to the beach. Costing only €45* per person and taking just over an hour, you could not be in better hands with this reliable, professional and family friendly company.
*Prices accurate as per August 2016
About Shuttle Direct:
Want to reach your final destination quickly and conveniently? Then book in advance with Shuttle Direct. Providing private and shared transfers from airports, cruise ports, train stations and hotels throughout Europe and North Africa, we aim to take the stress out of organising your own travel logistics.
