A former cortijo that was once among the largest in its comarca, and an abandoned airfield with a film history give El Cortijo Grande a historical character. Nearby, you’ll also find the Torreón de Sierra Cabrera and the ridges of the Sierra Cabrera.

Cortijo and airfield history

El Cortijo Grande was once an estate belonging to wealthy landowners and was among the largest in the comarca. The estate had mills and an olive oil mill. The Aeródromo de Turre–Cortijo Grande has been abandoned; in Turre, it is a cultural site of historical interest. Steven Spielberg used the Aeródromo de Cortijo Grande as a filming location for “The Empire of the Sun” and “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”.

A regional report dated 15 February 2026 describes a surviving control tower and a hangar area in a ruined state. If you plan to include the airfield in your itinerary, check current access arrangements beforehand.

Architecture and landscapes of the Sierra Cabrera

The square Torreón de Sierra Cabrera stands near Cortijo Grande. Its masonry is made of rubble stone, with dressed stone at the corners. The tower has one storey, an elevated doorway and rectangular openings. These specific features give the historic structure its own architectural character.

The landscape also offers clear landmarks. In the Sierra Cabrera near Cortijo Grande, there are peaks over 900 metres high: Arraez reaches 919 metres and Mezquita 960 metres. The mountain range is also known for its rich flora, with numerous endemic plants. These include palmetto, wild olive, broom, esparto grass and thyme. The protected spur-thighed tortoise is also native to the Sierra Cabrera.

Routes and directions

On the road from Turre to Almería, signs point to Cortijo Grande–Cortijo Cabrera. One route reaches the small golf facilities at Cortijo Grande before continuing uphill. Another route in the area crosses the Sierra Cabrera after leaving Cortijo Cabrera via a paved track. Before setting out, check the current signage and, if you plan to use the route, the condition of the track.

Golf, horse riding and dining

Cortijo Grande Club de Golf is a nine-hole golf course. Club Hípico “Cortijo Grande” is an equestrian centre with a riding arena. If you plan to play golf or go horse riding, check current visiting and booking options in advance. La Almazara is a Mediterranean restaurant in Cortijo Grande. As availability and details can change, check the latest information before planning to dine there.

Choose accommodation to suit your interests

When looking for a holiday apartment, you can first decide whether to focus on history and architecture or on the landscapes and nature of the Sierra Cabrera. Golf, horse riding and dining at La Almazara are other possible interests for the day.

Discover more destinations: Arboleas, La Breña, Los Navarros, El Saltador Bajo, Uleila Del Campo, Cuevas Del Almanzora, Lubrín, Adra

For the main travel overview: Almeria.