For those who might want to take field parties to SE Spain (Carboneras fault and other features) the field centre at Urra (near Sorbas) has just announced its re-opening after refurbishment (see their announcement below). They give a price with all meals, but others might prefer accommodation without meals, so don't be afraid to ask (Urra Field Centre, Sorbas <[log in to unmask]>).
E. Rutter
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TO OUR PAST AND FUTURE FRIENDS
THE URRA FIELD CENTRE is five minutes by car from Sorbas, Almeria, Andalucia, SE Spain.
The business has been in abeyance since the departure of the last manager at the end of May 2014. First one and then another sale of the property having fallen through the accommodation, improved in building and contents, will be available again for the academic year 2015-2016
The responsibility for the continuation of this institution, known the world over for our contributions to Earth Sciences since 1990, will pass to Francisco Contreras, known to many of our old friends as Paco from Sorbas and the Caves. He may be remembered by those who were perhaps students or already lecturers between 1993 and 2000 as he frequently ran the bar here. Now he is the founder/managing director of Natur-Sport, the successful local Caving business. His contacts to Local Government and the University of Almeria as well as all the local businesses will prove invaluable. He will also, of course, be on hand if necessary to accompany and translate for any visits to police, the 24 hour Health Centre, or hospital
The facilities in the Field Centre have been enlarged over the last few years to enable groups of over 50 to be accommodated.
In future the second Cortijo, less than 100 metres away, will usually be available for approximately 16 more students and 8 staff.
The buildings stand in nearly 100 hectares of our own land: semi-desert, ungrazed and unmolested by hunters for 25 years, but at the disposition of our guests. Some of our University groups (e.g. Environmentalists, Ecologists, Botanists etc.) find it unnecessary to go any further afield as they study the biodiversity of this fascinating and dynamic ecosystem.
Geologists and geographers already know that we are ideally situated for studies in the Tabernas Badlands, the Volcanics of Cabo de Gata, the Carboneras Fault lines, the River Capture of the Rio Aguas and the world renowned Sorbas Gypsum Karst quite literally on our doorstep. Special trips into the caves for our students (at special rates) have been a regular feature and will, of course, continue.
We are acknowledged and thanked in most of the published literature on the area, including multiple Ph.d theses. These, along with an excellent and extensive reference library, are available on request.
If you require references we can send you to the list of our repeat customers over many years; foremost must be the geology departments of Imperial College and Plymouth University and the environmentalists of Leeds and Chester.
You will soon be able to find Urra on various social networks. There will also be a new website.
The students are accommodated in bunk beds in dormitories. The basic price is 35€ a night with all meals included. Tutors are offered single or double rooms for a supplement; the rooms in the Cortijo (when available) are en suite.
The students at Urra will not annoy anybody and no-one will disturb them. We have no neighbours.
For further details or to inquire about available dates for the next academic year please contact us at the e-mail address: [log in to unmask]
Lindy and Paco hope to hear from you soon.
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