There is a truly special place located at the southern tip of the province of Cadiz in the south of Spain. This place is called Tarifa.
Tarifa is a small town located across from the African coast, with stunning views over the sea, and completely unspoilt beaches including an enormous sand dune. It is the port of entry and exit to Morocco, divided by a narrow strait spanning just 14 kilometres.
In Tarifa the winds blow constantly, and though this can make it a bit brisk at times, it has turned the town into the cradle of kitesurfing and many other extreme sports people practice out on the open sea water.
The town’s centre has a beautifully preserved historic old town with entertaining restaurants, lively bars and a casual but not shabby atmosphere. Moreover, you will find lots of “hippy-chic” clothing and surf shops. You won’t find the luxury atmosphere that prevails in Sotogrande, nor the cosmopolitan ambiance of Marbella, but there is something special about Tarifa that makes you feel like you’re living an atmosphere of utmost freedom.
In the surrounding area, you can visit places as wide-ranging as the Bolonia Beach, the lovely hilltop village of Vejer de la Frontera, or the English colony of Gibraltar.
HOTELS
All of Tarifa’s hotels have something unique to offer, with Andalusian and African influences. Our recommendations:
Hurricane Tarifa: a small hotel with plenty of charm located on the outskirts of Tarifa right next to the sea. Its gardens are reminiscent of the Arabian Nights, with a beach bar in walking distance of the beach, a restaurant serving local food and two swimming pools. It is not a luxury hotel, but it has a certain je ne sais quoi feeling you only experience when you stay there.
Tres Mares: Beautiful architecture, in the best part of Los Lances Beach.
The Riad: In the town center of Tarifa, it is smartly decorated in Moroccan style.
La Sacristía: Also right downtown, this place is fun and original.
RESTAURANTS
El Chozo: Located inside the Torre de la Peña campground, it is right on the seaside. At this typical Andalusian tasca, the friendly staff serves up delicious food at quite affordable prices.
Hurricane: Located inside the Hurricane Hotel, this restaurant offers Mediterranean food.
Bibo Tarifa: A wonderful place that combines the feel of a high-end restaurant with that of a beachside bar, located at Valdevaqueros Beach.
El Francés: A mythical tasca in the center of Tarifa with tasty, original food.
