Region of Jerez de la Frontera
The suffix "de la Frontera" that many
of the Andalusian villages add to their name, reflects the long
struggle between Christians and Muslims. Fishing and wine production
were practised in Andalusia for hundreds of years, whereas bull-
and horse breeding began later. Nowadays the Costa de la Luz is
a vocational region not only for the Spanish, but also for the
foreign tourists, attracted by its numerous golf courses, several
marinas and by its excepcional climate.
This route, which is specially recommended for the fans of Andalusian
horses and Sherry, starts in Jerez. The itinerary follows the
coastline from Sanlúcar de Barrameda up to Vejer de la
Frontera and finishes, after having crossed part of the provinces
interior in Arcos de la Frontera. The route can be combined with
excursions to the National Park Doñana or to the Natural
Park Los Alcornocales.
Itinerary
From Jerez to Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Cadiz and along the
coast up to Vejer de la Frontera; the route continues then to
the interior towards Arcos de la Frontera.
Distance
approx. 225 kilometers/ 140 miles,
Possible excursion to Gibraltar.
Jerez de la Frontera (Miles 0;
191,000 Inhabitants)
The biggest city of the province and center of numerous economic
activities. Famous for his sherry wine cellars (bodegas) and for
Andalusian horse-breeding. Has a nice historical center.
Sanlúcar de Barrameda (Miles
14; 62,300 Inhabitants)
Charming town, located at the mouth of the Guadalquivir river.
From here come the white "manzanilla" wine and delicious
prawns. Castle Santiago; churches de la Trinidad and Nuestra Señora
de la O. Boat excursions to the Doñana National Park.
Chipiona (Miles 20; 17,300 Inhabitants)
Coast village with marina and an impressive lighthouse. Worth
visiting is the sanctuary Nuestra Señora de la Regla.
Rota (Miles 31; 26,400 Inhabitants)
Formerly a fishing village, today a place of summer holidays for
families. Well preserved old town and nice beaches. Church Nuestra
Señora de la O.
El Puerto de Santa María (Miles
40; 79,900 Inhabitants)
Ancient fishing town. Christopher Columbus departed twice from
its port towards America. Birth place of the Andalusian poet Rafael
Alberti. Many monuments, churches and the monastery of Nuestra
Señora de la Victoria.
Cádiz (Miles 56; 135,000 Inhabitants)
The most ancient city of Europe, located in the bay of the same
name, was - according to the legend - founded by Hercules ("Melkart").
The Romans called it Gades.
San Fernando (Miles 65; 88,500
Inhabitants)
Located on the other side of the bay, it is the "twin"
city of Cadiz. As Cadiz it bloomed in the 18th century. Many Baroque
and Neoclassic style.
Chiclana de la Frontera (Miles
71; 65,750 Inhabitants)
Placed between salt mines and pine groves, this village possesses
a beautiful beach called la Barrosa (6 Miles long). Churches San
Juan Bautista, Santa Ana and Jesus Nazareno.
Conil de la Frontera (Miles 86; 18,650 Inhabitants)
Historical maritime village, nowadays in full tourist raise. Tower
of Guzmán el Bueno, church Santa Catalina; convents de
la Victoria and San Francisco de Paula. 14 km of fine beaches.
Vejer de la Frontera (Miles 97;
12,700 Inhabitants)
Village of medieval character, its historic center is protected.
Arabic castle, many churches and a convent de las Monjas Recepcionistas.
Excursions:
- Cape Trafalgar (9 miles), near the site of Admiral Nelson's
victory against the French and Spanish fleets in 1805;
- village of Barbate with the Natural Park La Breña y Marismas
de Barbate (6 miles);
- Tarifa, a surfer’s paradise (31 miles southeast).
Medina Sidonia (Miles 116; 10,800
Inhabitants)
Phoenician foundation with Arabic style and archaeological remains
of the Roman period. Ancient city gates. Churches Santa Maria
la Mayor, Santiago and San Juan de Dios.
Excursions:
- to Alcala de los Gazules (19 miles)
- to the Natural Park los Alcornocales.
Arcos de la Frontera (Miles 139;
28,750 Inhabitants)
Situated on a mountain range 160 meters high above the Guadalete
river. One of the most beautiful villages of Andalusia.
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