Hollywood theme parks

Movie buffs in particular enjoy a visit to the little village of Tabernas, about 26 kilometres from Almeria city, set between the Sierra de Alhamilla and Sierra de Filabres in a barren landscape of canyons and rocky wasteland reminiscent of the badlands of the American south west.

A few decades ago legendary stars of western movies such as Clint Eastwood, Lee van Cleef and Yul Bryner strutted their stuff here in the dry desert heat on film sets which fans will recognise from the great spaghetti westerns such as the good the bad and the ugly, A fistful of dollars and the magnificent seven.

These movie lots have been converted into theme parks. There are three to visit; Mini Hollywood, Texas Hollywood and Western Leone named after the famous director.
All three provide live shows throughout the day, with stagecoach rides, gun fights and more. There are saloons for refreshment and at mini Hollywood there is a film museum, swimming pool, children’s play areas and a zoo with over 150 species from around the world.