Best attractions and places to see around Motril, a prominent town on Spain's Costa Tropical in the province of Granada, offers a diverse range of attractions. The area blends historical landmarks with natural beauty, providing a variety of cultural experiences. Its unique position allows for views of both the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Motril is a region where 68 hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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Highlight • Religious Site
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Highlight • Natural
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In one of the wonderfully told stories about the two protagonists “Don Camillo and Peppone,” conceived by the Italian writer Giovanni Guareschi, it is also about the Mother of God, Mary. Peppone's youngest son is very seriously ill, and so one evening the communist mayor sets off for the church with five large candles. Don Camillo intends to place them in front of the crucifix on the high altar, but Peppone has objections and wants the candles placed at the Chapel of Mary: “That one belongs to your party. Light them in front of that one there, which doesn’t engage in politics.” After he has left, Don Camillo – who, as always, converses with the crucified Christ – implores him, “not to be hard on him.” The dialogue continues: “And why should I be?” whispered Christ. “By honoring my Mother, he fills my heart with gentleness. I only dislike a little that he called her ‘that one there’.” Don Camillo shook his head. “You heard incorrectly,” he objected. “He said: ‘Light them all in front of the Holy Virgin in that chapel there’.” (Giovanni Guareschi in “Fünf und fünf”)
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Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Head is truly the jewel in the crown. What a delight to admire the art work of this sacred place and then walk the grounds of the beautiful park surrounding
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The Carchuna Castle, also known as “El Castillejo”, has been declared as Cultural Heritage Asset since 1993. Built at the end of the 18th century under the order of King Carlos III, its main purpose was to protect and give safety to the area due to the continuous pirate attacks. Until the 17th century, this coast and plains were deserted and shelter of Berber corsairs. After the construction of this fortress, the pirate attacks ceased and Carchuna-Calahonda was eventually formed due to the settlement of people from the Alpujarra and Motril as well as the cultivation of the area
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It is located next to the Parque de los Pueblos de América (Park of the Peoples of America). It is one of the city's main green spaces. This park originated as a link to the American continent, a fact reflected in its flora. As you stroll through the park, you can appreciate a wide variety of tree, shrub, and palm species, all from different parts of the Americas.
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It was originally built on the site of the citadel that defended Motril during the Muslim era, the residence of Queen Aixa Alhorra, mother of Boabdil. Construction of the church began in 1631, by Isidro de la Chica, in a very austere proto-Baroque style. The building, in the shape of a Latin cross, consists of a single nave, a transept covered with a hemispherical dome, a raised main chapel, and a dressing room richly decorated with Baroque plasterwork.
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The Park of the Peoples of America is located south of the town of Motril. It is one of the city's main green spaces. This park was created as a link to the American continent, a connection reflected in its flora. As you stroll through the park, you can admire a wide variety of tree, shrub, and palm species, all originating from different parts of the Americas.
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The Parque de los Pueblos de América is located south of Motril's urban center. It is one of the city's main green spaces. This park was created as a link to the American continent, reflected in its flora. Strolling through the park's paths, we can appreciate a wide variety of tree, shrub, and palm tree species, all native to different parts of the Americas.
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The bridge can also be bypassed from the side. There are glass panels in the middle of the bridge that allow you to look underneath. A truly amazing experience.
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Motril is rich in history. You can visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Head, a 17th-century church built on the site of a Nasrid fortress, offering panoramic views. Another significant site is the Parish Church of the Incarnation, constructed on a former mosque's location. Don't miss the Carchuna Castle, an 18th-century defensive fortification, or the Castillo de Salobreña, which offers impressive views from its towers.
Absolutely. The Jolúcar Glass Walkway in Torrenueva offers stunning views of the sea and beaches like La Jolla from its glass and steel structure. For birdwatching, the Charca de Suárez Wetland near Poniente Beach is a vital habitat for migratory birds. Motril's unique position also allows for views of both the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, often with snow-capped peaks visible from the shore.
Families will enjoy the Park of the Peoples of the Americas, a large green space in the city center featuring diverse flora from the American continent. The Carchuna Castle is also considered family-friendly, offering a glimpse into the region's defensive history. Additionally, Motril's well-equipped beaches like Playa Granada and Playa de Poniente are perfect for a family day out.
Motril and its surroundings offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for gravel biking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For example, there are challenging gravel routes like the 'Jete Open Door to the Valley – Old Viaduct - Torrecuevas loop' or moderate MTB trails such as the 'Sierra del Jaral Loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Gravel biking around Motril, MTB Trails around Motril, and Road Cycling Routes around Motril guides.
Yes, Motril has several cultural points of interest. The Sugar Cane Museum (Museo Preindustrial de la Caña de Azúcar) is unique in Europe, detailing the region's historical sugar industry. You can also visit the Ron Montero Winery for tours and tastings. The Museo de Historia de Motril, located in Casa Garcés, provides insights into the town's past.
Motril's mild climate makes it suitable for outdoor activities for much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Even in winter, you can often enjoy clear days with views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains from the coast. Summer is ideal for beach activities and water sports.
The Park of the Peoples of the Americas is noted as being wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility needs. Many of Motril's beaches also feature promenades, providing easier access to the coastline.
Motril boasts several well-equipped beaches. Playa Granada and Playa de Poniente are popular choices, offering amenities like sunbeds, showers, and beach bars. A long promenade connects the port with these beaches, perfect for a stroll. The coastal area also includes picturesque spots like Sacratif Cape and the cliffs of Calahonda.
Motril is known for its tropical flavors, thanks to its unique climate. You can enjoy local produce such as cherimoyas, mangoes, and avocados. The active port ensures a fresh supply of seafood, which is readily available in local markets and restaurants. Don't miss the experience of observing the fish auction at sunset at the Motril Port.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse offerings, from the historical significance of sites like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Head with its panoramic views, to the unique experience of the Jolúcar Glass Walkway. The natural beauty of the Park of the Peoples of the Americas and the stunning coastal views are also highly praised.
As a major town on the Costa Tropical, Motril holds a full schedule of traditional Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions. These events offer a deep dive into local culture and religious traditions, attracting many visitors each year.


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