El Varadero: Seafarers’ Quarter, Coastal Route and Fiesta del Carmen

El Varadero is the seafarers’ quarter of Motril (Granada). It grew up around the historic port, which was the only commercial, leisure and fishing port on the coast of Granada. The coastal facilities at Playa de las Azucenas, the Ruta del Mar and the celebrations in honour of the Virgen del Carmen reveal different sides of the area.

Playa de las Azucenas and its paths

As part of completed improvement works, wooden boardwalks were installed along the beach at Playa de las Azucenas, together with raised walkways across flooded areas. The elevated route and the beach boardwalks provide access to different parts of the coast. A covered outdoor area for receiving visitors and an accessible toilet unit were also installed there. An access path and a pergola were also completed and opened for use. The natural area is considered to be of natural, educational and landscape interest.

The Ruta del Mar: distance, route and surface

The Ruta del Mar is 23.60 kilometres long, has a low difficulty level and a cumulative elevation gain of 55 metres. It runs along asphalt, a dirt track and sections of beach. The distance, elevation profile and variety of surfaces give you different points of reference when deciding whether the route suits your stay.

The route passes through Varadero and by the Lonja de pescado and the Ermita del Carmen. It then follows the traditional Camino Patria through orchards and traditional farmland, climbing towards Motril, with Cerro de la Virgen in the background. As trail conditions and signage may change, check them before setting out.

Fiestas and procession of the Virgen del Carmen

The fiestas in honour of the Virgen del Carmen take place in Varadero every year on 16 July and last almost a week. The programme includes music, fairground rides, sporting activities and communal meals; individual events may vary. If you are planning your trip around the celebrations, 16 July is the main annual date. Check the specific festival dates and programme in advance of your visit.

The procession first passes through the streets of Varadero and then boards at the Lonja Pesquera. At sea, it follows the coast of Motril. Each year, one of the fishing boats moored at the quay is chosen to accompany the Virgen del Carmen out to sea. The event thus combines a section through the quarter with boarding the boat and travelling along the coast.

Fishing as part of regional history

The history of fishing settlements in the surrounding area is also part of the region’s maritime heritage. Fishing there dates back to the Phoenician, Roman and Muslim periods and was one of the main sources of livelihood for these settlements. This historical perspective adds insight into the importance of fishing to the settlements in the surrounding area, alongside information about coastal routes and fiestas.

Discover more destinations: Restabal, Bérchules, Lopera, Bubión, Orgiva, Lecrín, Zafarraya, Salobreña.

For the wider travel overview: Granada.