Beyond the Costa del Sol's big-name resorts, Andalusia hotels open up a whole region of whitewashed pueblos, tapas bars and coastline that rarely makes it onto the typical Spain shortlist. From the sun-baked shores of Costa de Almería to the cliffside charm of Costa Tropical, there's a quieter side of southern Spain worth exploring.
Costa de Almería: Europe's sunniest coastline
Roquetas de Mar is one of Costa de Almería's most popular bases, and Mediterraneo Bay Hotel Resort makes the most of it, putting you close to the resort's long sandy beaches with a proper family-holiday feel. Just along the coast, Playasol Hotel offers a good-value alternative in the same area, ideal if you're after sun, sand and a laid-back pace without the higher price tag of the Costa del Sol.
Costa Tropical: Andalusia's subtropical secret
Further east, Costa Tropical earns its name from the avocado and mango groves that tumble down toward the sea, and Almuñécar makes a brilliant base for exploring it. Playacalida Hotel sits right in the town, giving you easy access to its beaches, old town and the dramatic cliffside scenery this stretch of coast is known for.
