The province of Almeria is situated in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, on the shores of the Mediterranean. It covers an area of 8,774km and comprises of a great many geographic contrasts, including long beaches with small coves, desert areas and others with a varied vegetation, and high mountains with extensive plains. The passing of time has also had a great influence on the landscape. In Almeria it is therefore possible to find modern and bustling tourist centres as well as those natural areas where man has scarcely left his mark. Almeria enjoys a warm and dry Mediterranean climate, with little rain and a large number of hours of sun per year (more than 3,000 hours). The temperatures throughout the year are mild, reaching no lower than an average of 13ºC in winter, and no more than an average of 25ºC in summer. This mild climate allows the visitor to enjoy all the possibilities available within the province at any time of the year.