TARIFA
Tarifa is the southern tip of Spain, where the Mediterranean and the Atlantic meet. This small town has, surprisingly, a lot to offer and a refreshingly laid-back international vibe.
Tarifa's main attraction is the magnificent white, windy beaches. It is the perfect place for kiteboarding, windsurfing and surfing. Even in the chill, bohemian town, you can feel the surfing vibe with every step you take. Also, the sea life is fantastic, Tarifa is the perfect place to spot dolphins and even whales.
Tarifa is famous for its unspoiled nature. The two natural parks, Parque Natural del Estrecho and Parque Natural Alcornocales are perfect for horseback riding and hiking trips all year round. It is even possible to have a fantastic view of the North African coast. If you want to visit the fascinating city Tangier in Morocco, it is just a 35 minutes ferry ride from Tarifa!
In Tarifa, you can eat the freshest tuna or swordfish the many restaurants in the old town centre or along the beach, accompanied by a delicious glass of wine from the region. And all this for unbeatable prices! After, enjoy the nightclubs, which are all open until the early hours.
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TARIFA HIGHLIGHTS
1.
Los Lances beach
This snow-white and easily accessible beach of almost 8 km long are world-famous for being the best kite and windsurf spot in Europe. The beach also has a large area protected for birds and wildlife. Los Lances morphs into Valdevaqueros beach, one of the other great beaches in Tarifa.
2.
Castillo de Guzmán El Bueno
This impressive old fortress and museum are probably one of the most well-preserved medieval buildings in Spain. It was built in 960 by Abd ar-Rahman. From the tower, you have a breath-taking view over Tarifa and the Strait of Gibraltar. There are also remarkable excavated remains of Roman-era walls unearthed in 2010.
3.
Puerta de Jerez
This gate is guarding the main entrance to the old town. The Moors built the fortified gate and after it was further adorned during the Christian conquest. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, where you can sit and absorb the history of the place.
4.
Church of San Mateo
After a beautiful stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, you will arrive at this Gothic church, built in the 16th century with a neoclassical façade rebuilt by La Vega, in the 18th century.
5.
Centro de Interpretación de Cetaceos y Aula del mar
At this museum, you can learn everything about dolphins, whales, orcas and all the animals swimming in the waters off Tarifa between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.
6.
Horseback riding
The best way to explore the beautiful nature surrounding Tarifa is on the back of a horse. You can ride along the coast or in the mountains; there are plenty of routes to choose from. If you don't like horses so much, you can also go hiking with trails for all levels in the two natural parks.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
per year 17.2 °C or 63 °F
