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Arcos de la Frontera |
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The House |
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Activities and Fiestas |
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Surrounding area |
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Getting there |
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Rates and availability |
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Surrounding Area |
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Jerez is also famous for Flamenco, and the flameco festival of Jerez at the end of February is one of the most important in the world (www.festivaldejerez.com). Dating back to when Jerez was part of the Caliphate of Córdoba, the Arabian Baths are also worth a visit (www.hammamandalusi.com). |
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A 20 minute drive from Arcos, you will find Jerez de la Frontera—renowned for its sherry and brandy production, as well as its fine horses and Flamenco. The town also dates back to Moorish times and has a charming old town and palm lined squares. Visit the bodegas to sample the local sherry—Osborne, Gonzalez Byass, Pedro Domecq and Sandeman. Jerez has been a centre of viniculture since wine-making was introduced to Spain by the Phoenicians in 1100 BC.
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Andalusian horses have attracted admiration since ancient times. You can witness the pride of this tradition at the Real Escuela del Arte Ecuestre, the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, which is located in a magnificent 19th century mansion designed by the architect of the Paris Opera. Jerez celebrates its famous annual Horse Fair at the very beginning of May. Another event not to miss is the bareback horse racing along Sanlúcar de Barrameda beach during August, believed to be the second oldest horse racing even in Spain. |
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Another 20 minutes to the West, and you reach the Costa de la Luz—200 miles of unspoilt coast line and shimmering white beaches. There are plenty of tranquil spots along the coast between Puerto de Santa Maria and Tarifa. You can always find good seafood and tapas restaurants too up and down the coast. For further details see www.cadizturismo.com/playas |
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Like Arcos, there are many other Pueblos Blancos throughout the province, which share a history involving the centuries-long fight of the Spaniards to reconquer Spain. Medina Sidonia, Vejer de la Frontera, Olvera and Grazalema are but a few worth visiting. Or travel further East to the town of Ronda (right), the birthplace of modern bull fighting and a favourite of Hemmingway.
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Along the way, you will pass through the beautiful countryside of the Sierra de Grazalema (below right) - a 50,000 hectare protected natural park. There is lots to do if you are looking for an active holiday: |
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Contact For further information and details of rates and availability, contact: mark_nandi@hotmail.com |
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from walking to horse riding, to learning to paraglide, wind or kite surf. The main cities in the area are Seville (left) – an easy 60 minute drive away, and Cadiz (below right) on the coast.
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