Zahara de los Atunes has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Andalusia attracting Spanish and international tourists alike.
This fishing village is located just a few kilometres north of Tarifa and owes its name to the Almadraba, the art of trap-net tuna fishing, which has been practised in this area for thousands of years.
Unspoilt and far away from the outgrowths of mass tourism, Zahara has preserved its roots, and the visitor perceives a distinct flair of an ancient fishing village and the unique and friendly character of the local people. This is why Zahara clearly stands out from the rest of the Spanish coastal villages that have been overwhelmed by the construction boom and turned into mass tourism hubs.
The main attraction of this region are its miles of white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters as well as a unique micro climate. In addition, the hospitality of the people, the varied and exquisite cuisine dominated by fresh fish caught on the local coast, as well as endless possibilities for sports and other activities such as windsurfing, diving, horse riding, tennis, hiking, mountain biking, etc., all make for a memorable holiday.
In the summer months night owls are spoilt for choice with numerous chiringuitos (the typical Spanish beach bars), pubs and discotheques offering live music.
Just a short stroll away from Zahara we find the luxury residential area of Atlanterra on the immaculate white beach Playa de los Alemanes where more than a hundred Spanish and international celebrities and famous artist have built their dream homes. From the lighthouse Faro Camarinal you have a spectacular view of the Moroccan coastline.
At a short distance from Zahara (10 km) lies the fishing town of Barbate, surrounded by the spacious natural park Parque Natural de la Breña y Marismas de Barbate that connects it with the famous Cape Trafalgar and the beaches of Los Caños de Meca where fresh water springs rain down on the beach from inside the rocks.
Just behind the Marina of Barbate, the lonely Hierbabuena beach slowly turns into a majestic cliff with the ancient watchtower Torre del Tajo at its highest point. From here, stunningly beautiful sunsets can be admired.
Built on a hilltop about 200 m above sea level, Vejer counts among the most beautiful villages in Spain. This picturesque village with its emblematic ancient windmills has been listed as a historical monument since 1976 forming part of the national cultural heritage.
Within the former city walls with a castle, watchtowers, arches and cobblestone streets the visitor is transported back into bygone times. Apart from a predominantely Moorish influence, a wealth of chapels, churches and other historical monuments of Gothic or baroque origin flavour the atmosphere. The town also prides itself with the beautiful beach of El Palmar, well known among surf sports aficionados for its ideal surf break, as well as a high end golf club at Dehesa de Montenmedio where important international equestrian competitions such as the Sunshine Tour are held each year.
Just south of Atlanterra we reach the enchanting rural hamlet of Bolonia known for the ruins of the Roman settlement Baelo-Claudia which sits right on the beach. A gigantic sand dune and the turquoise waters of the ocean catch the eye of the visitor. Despite of its immediate proximity to Tarifa as well as countless attempts of clever investors to obtain building permissions, Bolonia has managed to preserve its unspoilt environment and is regarded a true gem by its visitors.
Situated at the southernmost tip of Spain and thus of Europe, Tarifa has developed into a multicultural enclave over the centuries. Due to its strategic location at the border to Africa and in the Straights of Gibraltar, this town has witnessed numerous historical events that have turned it into a cosmopolitan little town. Several archaeological findings in the surroundings of Tarifa and the proximity to the natural park Los Alcornocales make it a perfect destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Thanks to the ideal wind conditions however, Tarifa is primarily considered the stronghold for wind and kite surfing in Spain, with the beaches of Punta Paloma and Los Lances being established hot spots for these sports among the international surfing community.
