Living in Cuevas del Almanzora is ideal for those who value space, history, and a slower rhythm of life. The town is surrounded by wide open spaces, vibrant citrus groves, and distant mountain views. The old quarter still shows traces of its Moorish past, while the surrounding cave houses tell stories of resilience and tradition. Some have been lovingly restored into homes, studios, or visitor attractions. There is a growing international community here, although the atmosphere remains distinctly local. English is spoken in some restaurants and by many estate agents, but learning Spanish is helpful for day-to-day life. Cuevas has several annual festivals, including religious processions, cultural fairs, and its lively carnival. One of the best known events in the area is Dreambeach Villaricos, a major electronic music festival that attracts thousands every year. This popular festival now takes place in nearby Villaricos, but for years it helped put Cuevas and its coastal areas on the map. The food scene is relaxed and rooted in tradition. You will find family-run tapas bars and no-frills restaurants serving grilled fish, meat stews, and local wines. Restaurants and cafés are mostly concentrated around the central plaza, and there are a few popular spots in nearby Palomares and Villaricos, both close to the sea. Fresh produce markets take place weekly, with seasonal fruit and vegetables, local honey, and handmade goods. Cuevas is not about nightlife or flash. It is a place for community meals, quiet mornings, and sunny afternoons with good food and good company.
Essential information
The historic troglodyte Cuevas del Calguerin caves in Cuevas del Almanzora
Population and Property
Cuevas del Almanzora has a population of around 15,100 people. The town has a fairly even split between men and women, and the age range is broad. There is a significant number of residents aged between 40 and 70, with many families and a growing number of younger residents moving to the area for work and lifestyle reasons. Expats are gradually making up more of the population, with buyers drawn to the town's affordability and slower pace of life. Cuevas offers a wide range of properties, including traditional townhouses, modern villas, and unique cave houses. According to current listings, you can expect to find a three-bedroom apartment in town from around 36,000 euros, a country house from around 56,000 euros, or a modern detached villa from 235,000 euros and up. On Kyero, there are more than 1,500 properties for sale, ranging from two-bedroom cave houses to spacious villas in the hills with private pools and panoramic views.
Healthcare
The town has its own health centre, offering basic medical services, GP appointments, and nursing care. Pharmacies are easily accessible through the town and operate a rotating emergency service. For more complex medical needs, residents travel to Hospital La Inmaculada in Huercal-Overa, which is around thirty minutes away by car. This is a modern hospital with a range of departments and services. Private healthcare is available in nearby towns and cities, and many expats choose a combination of public and private coverage. The public system is accessible to residents registered with social security, and private insurance is widely accepted by clinics and specialists throughout the region.
mausoleums and tombs in the historic cemetery of Cuevas del Almanzora
Working in Cuevas del Almanzora
Cuevas has a local economy rooted in agriculture, small businesses, construction, and services. There are also employment opportunities in education, hospitality, and retail. Nearby villages such as Palomares and Vera have supermarkets, schools, and growing expat populations, making them attractive for those looking to set up their own business. Remote workers can enjoy the peace and space of Cuevas while staying connected. Internet coverage is reliable in most parts of town, and cafés with wifi provide alternative workspaces. There are no formal coworking spaces in Cuevas yet, but nearby Vera and Mojacar offer options. For non-EU citizens, Spain's digital nomad visa may be a useful route to residency. For those hoping to work locally, a basic level of Spanish is usually required, especially in customer-facing roles. If you’d like to learn more about Spain’s digital nomad visa, check out our article for everything you need to know.
Schools and Education
Cuevas del Almanzora has several local schools, including nurseries, primary schools, and a secondary school. CEIP Álvarez de Sotomayor is one of the main primary schools in the town, while IES Jaroso serves secondary students. There are also rural schools in surrounding villages such as Palomares, Guazamara, and Los Lobos. Education here is mostly in Spanish, though some schools participate in bilingual programmes. For international schooling, families often look to nearby Vera, Mojacar, or Almeria city, where private and British-curriculum schools are available. There is also a municipal music school and a conservatory offering lessons in piano, guitar, and other instruments. Adult education and language classes are available through local centres.
Transport
Cuevas del Almanzora is located inland but close to the coast, with good road links to neighbouring towns and villages. Most residents rely on a car to get around, although there are local bus routes connecting Cuevas to Vera, Garrucha, and Huercal-Overa. The nearest train station is in Lorca, which is about an hour away, and Almeria Airport can be reached in around ninety minutes. This airport serves domestic and some international flights, with more connections available from Murcia and Alicante airports. Cycling is popular in the area, particularly in the early mornings or cooler months. Walking is a pleasant way to get around the town itself, especially in the historic centre.
Things to Do in Cuevas del Almanzora
Rocks and tidal pools in Almería
Explore the castle and historic centre
Cuevas is home to the Castle of the Marqués de los Vélez, a sixteenth-century fortress that dominates the town skyline. Inside, you will find a museum, art exhibitions, and one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Visit the cave houses of Calguerín
Just outside the town centre, the neighbourhood of Calguerín features dozens of cave homes built into the hillsides. Some are still used today, and visitors can explore those open to the public for a look at traditional cave living.
Wander the town's markets and plazas
Weekly markets bring local produce, flowers, household items, and clothes to the main square. It is a social highlight for many residents and a great place to discover regional foods and meet neighbours.
Take a trip to the reservoir
The nearby Cuevas del Almanzora Reservoir is a peaceful place for a weekend walk or picnic. Birdwatching is popular here, and the surrounding trails offer gentle outdoor exercise with scenic views.
Spend the day by the sea
The beaches of Villaricos and Palomares are less than twenty minutes away by car. These coastal spots are quieter than the larger resorts and offer swimming, beachside restaurants, and calm waters for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Expat Clubs and Activities
While Cuevas del Almanzora does not have formal expat clubs, the growing international population means there are plenty of opportunities to meet others. You can join the Facebook group Expats in Almería to make connections with fellow expats across the province. Community events, markets, and language exchanges provide natural spaces to make connections. Nearby towns like Vera and Mojacar have more established expat networks, including walking groups, book clubs, and volunteering opportunities. As the local expat scene continues to grow, more activities are emerging throughout the year.
