Tarifa
Tarifa [2] is a holiday destination in the south of Spain. The strait of Gibraltar separates the continents Europe and Africa is just 14 km away. Charming white Andalusian town has only been mildly spoiled by the mass touristic developments which have ravaged the coasts of most of Spain. Much of the surrounding coastline is still protected by law and a few kilometres to the west of the town are two of Spain's most beautiful beaches. Get inBy planeThe nearest airports are, Malaga 1,5 hour drive, Gibraltar, at 35 minutes, Jerez de la Frontera at 1 hour drive and the aiport of Tangier, Morocco 1 hour (includes crossing time with ferry). By busBus station Algeciras, from where you can take the bus to Tarifa direction Cadiz or a taxi. By boatFrom the port a fast ferry of FRS leaves every hour to the port of Tangier, Morocco. Cruise time - 35 minutes. Ferry tickets, port information and Tanger accommodation [3]. See
Wide and white sand. The immense beach Los lances is world wide recognized as the best kite and windsurf beach of Europe.
Main entrance to the old town of Tarifa, part of the medieval wall, is the only gate that survived of the three existing gates to the old town. When you stand under the gate, have a look up... interesting architecture. Above the entrance is written: Very Noble, Very Loyal and Heroic city of Tarifa, Won from the moors Reigning Sancho IV el Bravo 21 September 1292.
Probably one of the best maintain medieval building in Spain, build in 960 by Abd ar-Rahman. From the tower you have beautiful 360 degrees views over Tarifa and the fascinating strait of Gibraltar. Can you imagine that your son is at the bottom of the tower captured and in the hands of the Moors who speak the following requirements; Andalucia or we kill your son! Without thinking Guzman takes his knife and throws it right in the heart of his son. The end of 800 year occupation. Whether it is true ... No one will ever know. Opening times: 10.30 - 14.00 / 17.00 - 20.00 (paid visits)info: [4]
Right in the center. The Gothic church was built in the 16th century. The facade is rebuild in 1774 by La vega and stands in good relation with the original style. The door of the church is always open. Plaza de los Ocho Ranitas (eight frogs) Also called Plaza de Santa Maria. The main buildings are the La Alcazaba, neoclasic style.,the city hall of Tarifa and the local Library.
The road that leads to the island dividing the Mediterranea sea and the Atlantic ocean. Beautiful and inspirating views over the strait and to Africa (16.4 km), watch the surfers or fill the lungs with fresh sea air. The little castle is called Castillo Santa Catalina, build in 1929.
Roman ruines right on the beach. Remains of temples, baths, houses and a Roman theater, the most representative of a Roman city. A nice round of culture meanwhile enjoying magnificent views over the beach, the Atlantic ocean and the African continent. info:
The strait of Gibraltar to observe dolphins and enjoy the beautiful impressive views to both continents from the boat. Resident species can be seen all year include the Common dolphin, Striped dolphin, Bottlenose dolphin and Pilot Whale. Semi-resident species presence related to feed periods include the Killer whale - Orca (between July and September), Sperm whale (mostly between March and July). Migratory species cross the strait in their migratory routes include the Fin whale (mostly between May and July).
The Strait of Gibraltar was this time guarded by large, heavy guns from various military batteries here on the coast of Tarifa. In those days the soldiers on duty had a lot of fun in Tarifa and their green uniforms were a nice contrast to the vibrant colors of the first windsurfers. Today these military batteries are overgrown with plants and trees, the walls decorated with graffiti, broken windows, roofs far from waterproof, sun playing with the shadow and a lot of mystery. The work noises have been replaced by silence (except the wind) but if you listen carefully they will tell you their story. DoThe main activities are:
Tarifa owes its fame to the windsurfing, the bay is ideal with fresh winds from the Atlantic, the so-called Poniente wind and the warm strong Levante wind from the Mediterranea. The place is fascinating to sail, the views are incredible and the conditions great. The most famous spot are, Valdevaqueros, Los Lances, Balneario, Playa chica and Bolonia. The windsurfschools are open all year around and offer the best and latest equipment. If you come with your own windsurf equipment, the hotels offer storage room and most of the villas has enough space. There are a few campsites right on the beach with all amenities.
For sure the best spot in Europe to practice kitesurfing, the mix of good winds, kilometers of perfect white sandy beaches and a full service of professional schools, instructors, night life and rental centers makes Tarifa special. Ideal for all kind of level sailors. There are restricted kite areas along the coast during the summer months.
The bay of Tarifa is safe and challenging for those who like to make a nice tour in the strait of Gibraltar. Most of the windsurf and kite schools rent SUP boards and give clases. Stand up paddle surf is easy to learn in one go.
An absolute mountain bike paradise hidden in the inland of Tarifa with many trails for all kind of levels where you can ride all year. Long up hills, challenging down hills, easy and rough trails, beautiful nature and incredible views over the Atlantic ocean and the strait of Gibraltar. Within easy reach of Tarifa there are many more trails to explore in the extensive nature reserve of Los Alcornocales.
This is freedom, feeling the light breeze in the face and riding on the beautiful Andalusian horse on to the white sandy beaches with great views. The hills and paths...Discover.
A new sport in Tarifa. Paddling between two continents “The Strait of Gibraltar”. Like Oscar Chalupsky (11 x time winner of the Molakai)said . Tarifa is probably the best downwind spot in the world.
Hotspot Balneario near the town.
Learn to dive in the clear waters around the isla de las palomas under professional supervision.
In both the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
Along the coast you will find many windsurfing schools.
With other travellers[5] New in Tarifa the Special youth bilingual summer camps.
At the Mediterranea side you find the only links course here in the south of Spain, Alcaidesa Golf club at San Roque and nearby the world famous Valderrama Golf course in Sotogrande. Eat
Places
Is situated at the Paseo Marítimo in Tarifa West. Some nice bars and restaurants serving all kind of food and cocktails. Every afternoon sunset celebrations with live music. From the terraces great views over the beach and Atlantic Ocean.
Probably the best spot in Tarifa to enjoy the impressive famous views over the strait and sunset.
The best place to be in Spain is on the beach. The chiringuitos of Tarifa are well known for their lively ambient. Surfers and girls running up and down showing off, this is Tarifa. One of the best known beach clubs are Tangana Beach at Casas de porros, Punta Paloma and Waves at Los Lances norte.
They taste good, there are many little bars, owned by families, serving typical Spanish tapas and freid fish.
World's number 1 summer drink. The best Mojitos you'll find at the Beach Club of Hotel Arte Vida. SleepHotels, Hostals, Pension, Apartments, Villas with sea view and campsites right on the beach.
The campsites are outside the town along the coast. During the summer months the city halls offers a free of use shuttle service.
Get out
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