Experience the magic of Tabernas – Europe’s only desert and cinematic legend
In the midst of Andalusia’s raw and sun-baked landscape lies one of Europe’s most unexpected gems – the Tabernas Desert . An area so unique that it has attracted some of the world’s biggest film producers for decades. From Hollywood classics to modern streaming hits – Tabernas is not just a desert, it’s Europe’s answer to the Wild West .
An unparalleled film set
Tabernas has been home to over 300 film productions since the 1950s – and for good reason. The distinctive desert landscape of rugged rock formations, dry riverbeds and dramatic plateaus is reminiscent of Arizona and Nevada – but is just a few hours’ drive from the Costa del Sol.
Here are some of the most iconic films and series that have been filmed in the Tabernas Desert:
🎬 Newer movies and series filmed in Tabernas:
- Terminator: Dark Fate (2019) – action spectacle with scenes in Oasys/Mini Hollywood
- The Sisters Brothers (2018) – Joaquin Phoenix in a modern Western
- Assassin’s Creed (2016) – Ridley Scott’s film with magnificent desert scenes
- Black Mirror (2017) – episode “Black Museum”
- Game of Thrones (2016) – The raw backdrop of the Dothraki camp
- Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) – Ridley Scott used Tabernas as a stand-in for ancient Egypt
🎞️ Past classics:
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
- Conan the Barbarian (1982)
- The Condor (1970)
- Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
- The Good, the Bad & the Ugly (1966)
- Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Tabernas was the heart of the golden age of Spaghetti Westerns , where legends like Clint Eastwood, Sergio Leone and Ennio Morricone made film history in the dry and dusty landscape.
A fantastic excursion destination for the whole family
Even without the cameras and Hollywood glamour, Tabernas is a spectacular place to visit . The desert offers several theme parks where children and adults can experience wild western shows, stuntman duels and historical film sets:
- 🎠 Oasys Mini Hollywood – animal park, western town and pool area
- 🎬 Fort Bravo/Texas Hollywood – still active film set with daily shows
- 🤠 Western Leone – the original backdrop from Sergio Leone’s classics
These places aren’t just nostalgic journeys back to the childhood of cinema – they’re also living museums , perfect for a day trip filled with adventure and learning.
Nature – a chapter in itself
Tabernas is not just a backdrop – it is also a rare ecosystem in Europe. With its combination of dry desert flora, dramatic ravines and lonely mountains, the area is a true paradise for nature lovers, hikers and photographers. You can follow in your own footsteps through film history – or just enjoy the silence and magnificent scenery.
Are you considering housing in the area?
The province of Almería, where Tabernas is located, is still among the most affordable places in Andalusia . If you dream of a home with authentic Spanish charm and proximity to both the coast, nature and cultural history , then this is a hidden paradise. The area is in great contrast to the vibrant life on the Costa del Sol where many foreigners have chosen to buy a home in Spain.
You get:
- Quiet villages and authentic Andalusian lifestyle
- Proximity to film history and unforgettable landscapes
- Easy access to the motorway and major cities such as Almería and Granada
That’s why Tabernas is a must-see on the Costa del Sol
From Marbella, Fuengirola or Mijas you can easily drive east and reach Tabernas in under 3 hours. Perfect as a day trip or weekend getaway . The combination of experiences for children and adults, spectacular scenery and historic film culture makes it one of Andalusia’s best kept secrets .
Practical info and tips
- 📍 Distance from Costa del Sol : approx. 2.5–3 hours by car
- 🎟️ Admission : Tickets for Mini Hollywood and Fort Bravo start from around €20–25
- ☀️ Best time to visit : Spring and fall – summer is hot!
Explore further
If you want to delve deeper into Tabernas’ film history, we recommend visiting:
