Las Salinas Church
A century-old, isolated church on a windswept beach, offering dramatic coastal scenery and unforgettable sunset views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Las Salinas Church
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A century-old, isolated church on a windswept beach, offering dramatic coastal scenery and unforgettable sunset views.
"A perfect place in the middle of nowhere. Fantastic scenery creating captivating memories."
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to the church can be rough. A 4x4 is recommended, or park and walk the rest of the way.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Sunsets here are legendary! Bring your camera for unforgettable photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Church
Playa de los Genoveses
A century-old, isolated church standing sentinel against the crashing waves and fierce winds. A truly unforgettable sight.

Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Adjacent Beach
Experience the raw beauty of large waves and relentless wind against a picturesque, isolated beach.

Golden Hour Magic
Church and Beach
Witness spectacular sunsets that paint the sky and illuminate the historic church in captivating light.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Isolation
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to the church can be rough. A 4x4 is recommended, or park and walk the rest of the way.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Sunsets here are legendary! Bring your camera for unforgettable photos.
🌬️ Windproof Your Visit
Expect strong winds. Dress in layers and secure loose items.
💧 Pack Essentials
No facilities nearby. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to the church can be rough. A 4x4 is recommended, or park and walk the rest of the way.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Sunsets here are legendary! Bring your camera for unforgettable photos.
🌬️ Windproof Your Visit
Expect strong winds. Dress in layers and secure loose items.
💧 Pack Essentials
No facilities nearby. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, isolated beauty of Las Salinas Church and its dramatic coastal setting. The historic landmark, no longer in use, creates unforgettable memories, especially during sunset. While the journey can be challenging due to rough roads, the breathtaking scenery and unique atmosphere are consistently praised.
"A perfect place in the middle of nowhere. Fantastic scenery creating captivating memories. An over 100-year-old church no longer in use, standing right next to the beach where large waves crash and the wind rages... that day was unforgettable!"
Lucca T.
"We used to come to the beach here when I lived in Almeria as a kid back in the 70's. This church has always been one of my favourite buildings/landmarks - even before it was made "famous" in the movie Patton. There's just something about its proportions, the light it catches, the isolation. I love it."
Innes Ferguson
"Picturesque, isolated landmark toward the end of a long stretch of beach from fisherman's town San Miguel to the Cabo de Gata lighthouse."
Thorsten Hennig-Thurau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Las Salinas Church is located in a remote area near Playa de los Genoveses. Access often requires driving on unpaved roads, and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Some visitors choose to park further away and walk the remaining distance.
Public transport options are very limited due to the remote location. It's best to travel by car. Consider renting a vehicle in Almería or a nearby town.
The road can be rough and sandy in parts. While some visitors manage with regular cars, a 4x4 offers a more comfortable and secure journey.
Yes, if you're willing to park further away, you can walk to the church. The walk along the beach or coastal paths can be scenic but may take a significant amount of time depending on your starting point.
Limited informal parking is available near the church, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Be prepared to find alternative parking and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Las Salinas Church is an exterior landmark and does not require tickets for viewing. Access to the surrounding beach area is also generally free.
As an abandoned historical site, there are no official opening hours. You can visit the exterior of the church and the surrounding beach at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and visibility.
Generally, there is no entrance fee for Playa de los Genoveses. However, during peak summer months, there might be parking fees or access restrictions to manage visitor numbers.
The church is no longer in use and is typically inaccessible from the inside. Visitors can admire its exterior architecture and historical presence.
While there are no strict entry restrictions, it's important to respect the historical nature of the site. Avoid climbing on the structure or leaving any trash behind.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The contrast of the church against the sea and sky is stunning during these times.
You can capture iconic shots of the church itself, the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and expansive beach. It's also a popular spot for engagement and wedding photography.
Drone regulations can vary by region and national park rules. It's advisable to check the latest regulations for Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the church or distant coastal features. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Due to its remote location away from light pollution, Las Salinas Church can be an excellent spot for astrophotography, especially on clear nights.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The main activities are admiring the historic church, enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery, walking along the beach, and photography. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciating nature's power.
No, there are no facilities such as restrooms, cafes, or shops directly at the church. You'll need to bring all your own supplies.
Accessing the church can be challenging due to the unpaved roads and sandy terrain. The beach itself may also be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues.
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for sand and uneven ground. Layers are recommended due to the strong winds, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is essential.
Yes, picnicking on the beach is a popular activity. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the area clean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic is a great idea, as there are no facilities. The drive to the church can be an adventure in itself, but consider the rough roads if you have very young children or a less robust vehicle. The dramatic scenery and the story of the old church can spark imagination and create memorable family moments.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Be prepared for the elements – wind can be a challenge, so a sturdy tripod is recommended. Consider bringing a variety of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, to capture both the grand landscapes and intricate details. The isolation also means fewer distractions, allowing for focused creative work.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
While there are no amenities, the simplicity of the location adds to its charm. Consider arranging a special picnic to enjoy on the beach as the sun dips below the horizon, making for an unforgettable romantic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Las Salinas Church
Its fame has been amplified by its appearance in the film 'Patton,' making it a recognizable symbol of the Almería coastline. Despite its abandonment, the church remains a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike, cherished for its architectural simplicity and dramatic setting. The enduring appeal lies in its proportions, the way it catches the light, and its profound sense of isolation against the powerful backdrop of the Mediterranean.
Today, Las Salinas Church stands as a testament to the region's history and the enduring power of nature. It's a place that evokes strong emotions and creates lasting memories for those who make the journey to experience its stark beauty.
Experiencing the Dramatic Coastline
Visitors often describe the scenery as 'fantastic' and 'picturesque,' highlighting the unique memories created by the combination of the historic church and the dynamic coastal environment. The long stretch of beach leading towards the Cabo de Gata lighthouse offers ample opportunity for exploration and photography.
Whether you're seeking a dramatic backdrop for photos or simply a place to connect with the raw beauty of the Mediterranean coast, the area around Las Salinas Church delivers an unforgettable experience. The sunsets here are particularly renowned, casting a warm glow over the landscape and enhancing its mystical aura.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit