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HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS
Europe's best kite surfing > Wandering the cobbled streets of Tarifa’s old town > Partying ‘til the early hours in true Spanish style.

Ever since the first Moorish invasion of southern Spain in AD711, the various peoples that have settled in the small fishing town of Tarifa have left their mark, making it a veritable melting pot of cultures where Islamic and Christian architecture sit side by side.

Today, Tarifa plays host to a different sort of invader, clad in neoprene and laden with the latest kite surf gadgetry because this is now the ‘wind capital of Europe’. The blustery conditions at this, the southern tip of Europe where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic Ocean, make Tarifa the ideal spot to race over the waters on a board, propelled by a kite, or at least to learn how to try to do just that.

With different beaches to suit different levels, experts and beginners alike can enjoy some of the world’s finest kite surfing on this stunning stretch of coast looking across the Straits of Gibraltar towards Africa. Lessons are normally held from eleven in the morning until three in the afternoon, which leaves plenty of time to explore what else the region has to offer.

Tarifa is all about the outdoors, with its mountainous backdrop perfect for hiking, climbing or mountain biking, while the sand dunes along the coast are ideal for horse riding. Alternatively, after an energetic day riding the waves, wander through the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets of the charming old town, tucked away behind the old castellated city walls. Visit the immaculately restored 8th-century Jerez Gate and explore the Castle of Guzmán el Bueno, built on the remains of a Roman Fort, with unbeatable panoramic views over two oceans and two continents.

Even in the height of the summer tourist season, Tarifa retains an unhurried, laid-back atmosphere. In the evenings, relax with a glass of sangria while sampling the wares in one of the traditional tapas bars before taking your pick of the delicious Andalucian cooking on offer in the old town. In true Spanish style, there is no shortage of nightlife during the summer months in Tarifa, and can party ‘til sunrise with a hip international crowd that has flocked from around the globe to this tiny surfer’s paradise.

As for somewhere to lay your head, our recommended hotels include La Sacristia, a restored 17th-century inn in the heart of the town’s historic centre; Dar Cilla, a small self-catering guesthouse on the edge of the old town; or the small Hurricane Hotel set in tropical gardens down by the beach.