ABOUT THE AREA

The ‘Costa de la Luz’ (the Coast of Light) is just becoming acknowledged as one of southern Spain’s finest cultural & tourist destinations. This part of Andalusia has a rich cultural and historical heritage and a magnificently diverse landscape.  The traditional Spanish town of Chiclana, which is a typical Andalucian town with narrow streets and flower filled courtyards, has much to offer with its architecture, restaurants, shops and markets.  As a result of the economic development, which began in the 60's and 70's, Chiclana is now a town with 53,000 inhabitants and enjoys increasing prosperity and growth partly based on tourist trade.The centre which is based around the town hall square and the indoor market.  There is a vast  choice of fresh fish and meat as will as fruit and veg stalls brought in by local farmers.  Those who do not have a stall set up tables in front of the market to sell snails, and bunches of herbs. On Tuesdays there is the 'mercado gitano' a larger market near the bullring which sells clothes, bags and much more. 

Beaches:   There are some amazing sandy beaches on the Atlantic coast where you can spend a fantastic holiday.  We have some of the best beaches in Spain and its coastline and facilities make it a top quality location for year round sports and leisure activities.  The sea here is warmed by the Gulf Stream so it is pleasant to swim in all year round.  Along the coast there are many walk ways with watchtowers giving you breathtaking views across the coastline.  On the beaches you will find 'chiringuitos' or beach  bars serving delicious food as well as drinks and ice creams.  Being tidal, the beaches are fresh, clean, and La Barrosa retains the Blue Flag award year after year and is nearly eight kilometres long.  This beach has a promenade where you can find lots of restaurants, cafes and there are play areas for children.  Other beaches include Sancti Petri, 2 kilometres long, Fontanilla, Calas of Roche and further along the coast towards Conil there are many more wonderful secluded coves just waiting to be explored.  In the south of the region the rugged coastline is dominated by coves and cliffs often backed by pine forests,  The best are located just to the north of the fishing town of Barbate in the national park.  Don't forget Bolonia where you can visit the roman ruins nest to a beautiful breathtaking coastline. Further afield, the short ferry ride, 35 mins across the Straits of Gibraltar from Tarifa to Tangiers, offers an unforgettable day trip.  Like most places on the Costa de la Luz,  Chiclana with its coastline and facilities, (hotels, bars, restaurants) have made it into a top quality tourist destination. This is the area that the Spanish themselves choose come to on holiday  

Nearby:   The surrounding landscape is flat, green, natural and untouched.  It’s made up of pinewoods and marshland and nearby there is a national park which attracts migrating birds.  Storks nests can be seen on many roof tops in Chiclana town and on the N340 to  Conil.  The town of Conil is just 10 mins away and the hilltop towns of Vejer de la Frontera and Medina Sidonia are only 15-20 mins.  Many other places of interest include Jerez, Cadiz, Seville, Gibraltar and Tarifa.  This is also where the Famous Andalucian Horse and the  Brave Bulls are bred and they are clearly visible all over the countryside. 

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History:   El Castillo de Sancti Petri is without doubt one of the most authentic and impressive sights in the area.  It is located on the top of the island with the same name, directly opposite the fishing village of Sancti Petri.  Here you will be able to visit the ruins of the ancient 18th century castle and the carefully restored tower that today is used as a lighthouse.    The island has links with Hercules and and it is said that once a temple stood on the headland.  It suffered from numerous pirate attacks as well as the French occupation from 1810 to 1812, which is the reason why today visitors will only be able to see the ruins of the castle.During the times of war and for many following years, the island was a restricted military zone.  According to local lore, the village was commandeered by General Franco and he spent his holidays here on the island with his entourage.  The fishermen were forced out of their homes and when Franco died the place fell into ruin.  Once on the island you can enjoy magnificent views of the coast and the nature park of Bahia de Cadiz.  Now the area is protected to prevent inappropriate development.  A few local people are moving back in and renovating some of the properties and you will find a small fishing port, marina, windsurfing and other water sports centrre, plus a few bars and restaurants.  Bongo beach is located just before you enter the village and has lovely views over to estuary, the island, and out to sea. 

Chiclana tourist board have created a route for sightseers to follow in order to appreciate the dramatic views and sights of great historical importanc, including monuments, beaches and panoramic vistas.  The route is simply called "The Seven Magical Places of Chiclana".

Weather:   The Costa de la Luz has the perfect climate with temperatures averaging 20 degrees centigrade most of the year and with more than 3000 hours of sunshine.  Daytime temperatures during the summer months range from the mid 20s in May to the mid 30s in summer and often it can get quite breezy, but this helps keep us cool when the sun is just too hot.  Chiclana is bright and its climate is mild with few temperature extremes and little rain. The rainy season usually begins in late September or early October, but rain never lasts for more than a day or two.  Winters are enjoyably mild with daily temperatures of around 20c and nights rarely dipping below 10c which makes it a fabulous destination for those wishing to escape the cold British weather.

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