Zahara de los Atunes:
Zahara is a small tourist town built around an old fishing village which has been known to produce excellent fish since Phoenician times, when tuna was first trapped in traditional nets (almadrabas) extending from the coast. The ruins of the Castillo de la Almadraba built in the 15th century by the Duques of Medina Sidonia can still be seen in the village. The surrounding area is almost untouched by mass tourism, and only in the summer months it turns into one of the most popular beach resorts of the Andalusian Costa de la Luz. The longest beach in the area is this massive stretch of white fine, golden sand and crystal clear waters, just over 8 km in length, and spans the length from Zahara to el Cabo de Plata. It is all ideal for windsurfing and diving and offers a wide range of services. The ocean is sometimes rough but always beautiful. Occasionally a school of whales swim along the shore.
Activities in the local area:
Around Zahara and Atlanterra there are several nature reserves to be visited, such as the expansive national park La Breña y Marismas de Barbate, with its pine forests and salt marshes, where many endemic species of plants and animals can be found. The whole area is characterized by en extraordinary biological diversity and is known as a bird watchers’ paradise, since it lies on the route of migratory birds on their way to Africa. Great hiking trails along the coast and horse riding along the beach or in the forests invite the active tourist to explore the beauty of this area. Of course windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing, and all water sports are possible. The windswept town of Tarifa, only 30 km away, is known as Spain’s most famous surf spot.
Day trips:
For the culturally interested visitor, the province of Cádiz, historically frequented by various cultures such as the Vikings, Berbers, Phoenicians, and Romans, is full of surprising sites to explore. Nearby, you can visit the ruins of Baelo Claudia, a major town built by the Romans, from where fish preserves were exported all over the Roman Empire. Vejer de la Frontera, one of Spain’s famous white villages, lies on a hilltop just 15 km from Zahara. The twisty narrow streets are a walk through the rich and varied history of this town. Particularly prominent is the influence of the Arabs who held the town for 593 years. Day trips to Morocco and whale watching trips in the Straights of Gibraltar are not to be missed.
Golf:
The perfect weather conditions of this area allow golf to be popular all year round. There are several quality golf courses within easy reach: (Montenmedio)is 20 km away and counts among the best courses to be found in Europe. There are several more courses with a 40 km distance, offering. 1. Benalup Golf 18 holes, 2. Sancti Petri 36 holes, 3. San Andres Golf 9 holes
Other Activities:
Kitesurfing