Tarifa, Cadiz
Tarifa - A True Surfers Paradise
Tarifa is clearly one of the most stunning areas of Andalucia. With amazing vegetation, an enviable geographic location just a stone throw away from Morocco and with both the Atlantic and Mediterreanean merging at it's feet it's clear why this is the mecca for beach bums and surfers alike.
100% Fun – for a serious surf vibe, this is the place to stay. More Bali than Spain, this boutique hotel is set in lush tropical gardens and has 22 individually decorated rooms. Located a few kilometres West of the town centre. Tel. (+34) 956 680 330
El Beaterio – this 16th century building was originally a convent and has now been converted into quirky apartments – ideal if you want a cheap option in the centre of town. Tel. (+34) 956680924
El Escondite Del Viento – a hidden away retreat in the centre of town. Contemporary décor combined with original features of the 200 hundred year old building make this boutique hotel exquisite – also boasts a superb restaurant. Tel. (+34) 956 681 901
Hurricane Hotel - one of the first hotels in the area, this luxurious hotel boasts tropical gardens and swimming pool, an enviable location and a lovely restaurant. Probably first choice for a romantic getaway. Tel. (+34) 956 684 919
La Sacristía: Stylish boutique Hotel. Tel. (+34) 956 681 759
Silos Hotel: Art and Relax at The Smallest Boutique Hotel Tel. (+34) 956 684 685
Arte & Vida – This has a boutique hotel, restaurant, lounge area and bar all rolled into one located on a prime position with stunning views of the beach and the straits of Gibraltar. Their international menu caters to all tastes and includes Italian and Thai influences.
Valdevaqueros – the perfect place for lunch on the beach. Seek shelter from the scorching sun under the vine leaf covered patio and either eat from the buffet of delicious salads or order from the daily specials but be sure not to miss their delicious home made carrot cake with a cup of tea at sunset!
Ecocentro - organic shop and vegetarian restaurant combined with a yoga and alternative therapy centre. The perfect place to re-balance your mind..ommmmm!
Restaurante Otero in Bolonia: C/ Bolonia, 4. 956688594
Tarifa - Sun, Surf and... Much Much More!
One of the most emblematic places in Andalucia, Tarifa is the Southern most tip of Europe and can be reached from Algeciras or Cadiz on the N340 highway. The closest airport is in Gibraltar and although you’ll have to cross the border into Spain, it’s only a short 30 minute drive from there although many people prefer coming into Malaga Airport or just an hours drive from Marbella.
It is currently known as one of the most important wind capitals of the world and brings in thousands of wind and kite surfers from all over, dotting it’s skies with a kaleidoscope of brightly coloured kites against the backdrop of the Moroccan Rif mountains.
Originally it was a small fishing village and where the first Moorish invasion took place. Legend has it that the moors captured the son of Guzman El Bueno who was defending the town against the invasion, threatening to kill him if Guzman didn’t give up the fight, whereupon he refused and the Moors duly killed him.
Tarifa town is made up of a typical quaint Andalucian village with windy cobbled streets surrounded by castle walls that lead to the main shopping road Batalla Del Salado through an ancient archway. There are endless surf shops, cool bars and stylish restaurants waiting to be discovered both in town and also along the road that runs parallel to the beach, where you’ll find a variety of funky places often combining chillout areas with beach volley or boutique hotels with tropical gardens where you can sit back and enjoy a cocktail.
The beaches in Tarifa are second to none, with beautiful white sugary sand often backed by huge sand dunes and pine trees. Although sometimes wild, the sea is a deep emerald green. Beaches to visit in the area include Los Lances and Bolonia which has incredible sand dunes and famous Roman ruins. The atmosphere here is certainly relaxed, and even if kite surfing is not your thing, there’s still plenty to do…like horse riding, tennis or even just… sunbathing!
Things You Must Do & See in Tarifa:
Quad – hire a quad and check out the natural habitat with a guided tour of the mountains and coastline. Aventura Tarifa Tel. (+34) 634 522 738
Whale & Dolphin Watching in Tarifa - the straits of Gibraltar are rich with marine and bird life. Take a boat trip to view dolphins and whales to mention but a few. Aventura Tarifa Tel. (+34) 634 522 738
Go to Africa – there are many boats departing Tarifa port daily to Ceuta – usually a 40 minute trip. Perfect for shopping or getting a taste of Africa
Beach Volley – go to hot spot Explora and lounge on one of their Balinese beds surrounding the beach volley pitch or if you’re up for it get in there and play!
Kitesurfing schools in Tarifa- if you've got what it takes then be sure to get kite-surfing. Tarifa is considered the 3rd best place in the world to kite surf so be sure to try this exciting sport!
Tarifa By Night – a vibrant night life is the icing on the cake…
La Ruina – a classic in the centre of town. Hidden away up some steep stone stairs, this dark abyss has traditional brick walls and a huge glass roof (years ago it was just open air), once inside, the hypnotic music and stars will make you lose total track of time…
La Tribu – For some real surf vibe, begin the evening with a cocktail or pizza at La Tribu, where the locals usually start the night watching kite surf videos
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Sunday January 17, 2010, 19:01:02
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