A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Melilla: A Charming Corner of Spain

Melilla, located on the north coast of Africa, is a small autonomous Spanish city with a rich history and a unique blend of cultures. With its strategic location in the Mediterranean Sea, Melilla has been a meeting point for different civilizations over the centuries, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

The Old City

The heart of Melilla is its Old City, a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets that will transport you back in time. Here you will find the imposing Fortress of the Mount, built in the 16th century to protect the city from enemy attacks. From the top of the fortress, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Another point of interest in the Old City is the Plaza de las Culturas, a space where different architectural styles converge, such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Modernist. Here you will also find the Church of the Sacred Heart, a beautiful religious building that is worth a visit.

The Beaches

Melilla has several golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sun. San Lorenzo Beach is one of the most popular, with its wide promenade and numerous beach bars where you can taste delicious dishes of fresh seafood.

Another notable beach is the Hippodrome Beach, perfect for water sports such as windsurfing or paddle surfing. In addition, in this area you will find the Marquesa Park, a green space ideal for a walk and to enjoy nature.

The Cuisine

Melilla's cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, Arab, and Mediterranean flavors. You cannot miss trying typical dishes such as meat pie, lamb tajine, or soupy rice with seafood. In addition, the city has numerous restaurants where you can enjoy a wide variety of tapas and wines.

Modernism

Melilla also stands out for its modernist architecture, with numerous buildings from the early 20th century reflecting the influence of this artistic style. The Assembly Palace is one of the most notable examples, with its tiled facade and impressive dome.

Another emblematic building is the Kursaal Theater, a former cinema converted into a theater that hosts numerous performances and cultural events throughout the year.

Nearby Excursions

If you have time, we recommend taking a trip to the nearby Conventico Caves, a set of natural caves that were used as dwellings in the past. You can also visit the Alhucemas National Park, a natural paradise with stunning cliffs and pristine beaches.

Melilla is a unique tourist destination that combines history, culture, beaches, and delicious cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this charming corner of Spain.

Gastronomic Products of Melilla

• Assorted Tapas

  Melilla is famous for its tapas culture. In the city's bars and restaurants, you can enjoy a wide variety of tapas, from classics like patatas bravas or croquettes, to the most innovative and creative ones. Tapas are perfect for sharing and tasting different flavors in a single meal.

• Pestiños

  Pestiños are a typical sweet from Melilla. They are a fried dough in the shape of a bow, made with flour, olive oil, sugar and spices such as anise. Pestiños are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, and are usually served sprinkled with powdered sugar. They are perfect to enjoy with a coffee or as a dessert after a meal.

• Moroccan Tea

  Moroccan tea is a traditional drink in Melilla. It is prepared with green tea, mint and sugar, and is served hot in small cups. Moroccan tea is refreshing and aromatic, and is perfect to enjoy at any time of the day. In addition, in some places you can also find Moroccan tea with spices such as cardamom or cinnamon, which give it an even more special flavor.

Sports Activities in Melilla, Spain

Hiking

With a large number of natural routes, Melilla is an ideal place for hiking enthusiasts. You can explore the Cliff Route, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Diving

The crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea make Melilla a perfect place for diving. There are several diving schools that offer courses for all levels, from beginners to advanced.

Cycling

If you like cycling, Melilla offers several routes to enjoy this sport. You can tour the city by bike or venture into the mountain routes for a greater challenge.

Golf

For golf lovers, Melilla has an 18-hole golf course. The Melilla Golf Club offers a challenge for all skill levels, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Water sports

Thanks to its location on the coast, Melilla is an ideal place to practice water sports. You can rent a jet ski, go paddle surfing or even try kite surfing.

Places near Melilla (Spain)

If you are in Melilla and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Al Hoceima, a Moroccan gem in the Mediterranean, offers stunning beaches and a rich culinary culture. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Moroccan dishes, and local sweets, while exploring its vibrant market and beautiful sea views.

Nador, Morocco, is a vibrant tourist destination, known for its beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Visitors can enjoy authentic Moroccan cuisine, especially fresh seafood and local delights such as couscous and tajine.

Chefchaouen, known as the blue city of Morocco, is a charming tourist destination with picturesque streets and a rich culinary culture offering Moroccan delights such as couscous, tagine, and mint tea.