Southern Spain - Sherry, Flamenco and Horses

Jerez de La Frontera is located in southern Spain, in the province of Cadiz in Andalusia. About 100 kilometers from Seville and 40 kilometers from the city of Cadiz lies this beautiful city world-famous for its sherry, horses and flamenco. The word Jerez is the English corruption of the word Sherry, hence the name "Sherry City. Walking the streets of the city, the smell of sherry permeates the whitewashed walls of the wineries. This is why Jerez is the undisputed purveyor of this aperitif wine.

• The sherry city of Jerez de la Frontera is not only known for its sherry, horses and flamenco also characterize the city.
• Jerez de la Frontera is a real festival city. It starts in March with the flamenco festival "Festival de Jerez. For horse lovers, there is the big horse festival 'Feria de Cabello' in May. There is also the 'Campeonato de Motociclismo de Jerez,' the World Motor GP Championship, which attracts as many as a hundred thousand visitors.

This hot-blooded Spanish city has an interesting past: it served in the Middle Ages as the border between the Christian north and the Islamic south of Andalusia. Hence the addition "de la Frontera" meaning "on the border. The region of Jerez literally and figuratively exudes sherry. The soil of the area around the city contains a lot of lime. This white chalk layer holds water in the summer and reflects the sun, allowing the grapes to ripen evenly. The "Vino de Jerez," the Spanish name for sherry, dates back to 1100 B.C., making it as much as 3,000 years old! Now there are as many as 20 sherry producers based in the city, including the well-known Tío Pepe and Sandeman.  

Jerez de la Frontera is not only known for its sherry. Jerez, according to many, is the birthplace of flamenco. Although Andalusia has produced great flamenco artists, the official school is in Jerez de la Frontera. The city also invented the "Buleria," belonging to flamenco, one of the most important flamenco inventions. Much of this dance can be seen during the Festival de Jerez, known as the most influential flamenco festival of any Spanish city. Everyone who means anything in the flamenco world attends this annual festival in March.

Besides sherry and flamenco, the city has another pride: horses. The world-famous horse breed "Cartujano" is one of the oldest and purest horse breeds in the world. The famous Horse Academy is also located in Jerez de la Frontera. Your visit to Jerez is not complete until you have attended a training session or performance! For true horse lovers, in May there is the Feria del Caballo, a horse festival where proud Andalusian riders show off their horses. Of a completely different order is World Motor GP which takes place every year on the Jerez de La Frontera circuit. This event attracts more than150,000 visitors each year and is counted among the largest sporting events in Spain.

Jerez de la Frontera is characterized by its sherry, flamenco and horses. In addition, the city has much to offer the vacationer: art, culture, gastronomy and sports activities. The city is surrounded by two natural parks, so it is also a pleasant place for nature lovers. The city has an airport just a half-hour drive from Jerez. During your vacation in Andalusia, do not forget to taste a glass of Sherry from Jerez!

Spain is known for its long sandy beaches, sun-drenched climate and has been in the top vacation countries for years. What is often forgotten is that Spain has perfect coastal resorts for wind or kite surfing. On the Andalusian coast, close to the Strait of Gibraltar lies the province of Cadiz. The village of Tarifa is a fantastic Spanish surfing and windsurfing destination. Tarifa is located at the point where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Sea making it a very popular destination for surfing vacations.

• Tarifa, a small town located on the southern coast of Spain, is also called the European capital of (wind) surfing.
• Surfers can be found on Tarifa's beach all year round; in winter it is more popular with surfers and windsurfers, while in summer it is teeming with kitesurfers.
• Surf lessons and surf camps are very popular for youth during vacations to Andalusia.

The province of Cadiz is the southernmost province of the Autonomous Region of Andalusia and thus also the southernmost province of Spain. At the southernmost tip near the village of Tarifa, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet in the so-called Strait of Gibraltar. There the coast splits into the Costa del Sol and the Costa de la Luz. The distance to Morocco is only 14 kilometers, allowing for stunning views of the Moroccan Rif mountains.

The fact that the wind on the southern coast of Spain is extremely constant makes it the ideal place for surfing. For both as beginners and advanced surfers can surf here. Tarifa is a paradise for the kitesurfer, but surfers and windsurfers are also often found on Tarifa's coastline. Many surf schools can be found in the village offering both single lessons and surf camps. A surf camp during a vacation in Cadiz is popular among kids and teens every summer.

Besides being a popular surfing destination for young and old, Tarifa is also a paradise for nature and bird lovers, and activities such as horseback riding, diving and mountain climbing can be undertaken. The nearest major city is Cadiz, which is also called "the city that smiles" because of the cheerfulness of the Gaditanos, the city's inhabitants. The Gaditanos are cheerful and content and enjoy life to the fullest because every day is a new day. The city is also very popular among students who want to learn the Spanish language and for day trips during a vacation to Andalusia.

For surf lovers, the coast of Tarifa is definitely recommended. Tarifa is not called the European capital of (wind) surfing for nothing. Also, the coast of Tarifa is full of wildlife, dolphins and whales you will definitely spot here! In short, there is plenty to do here!

In spring, nature is reborn and everything about it invites us to renew our ties with the planet. It’s a time that charges us with energy and prepares us for the splendor of summer.

We want to take you to ten landscapes that we think are inspiring, uplifting and full of positive energy: from the glaciers in southern Argentina to the Peaks of Europe, and the Arabic gardens in Granada to the rich history of the Alberca cave… This week we have a special route for you designed to highlight the beauty of Mother Nature and the marvels made by mankind as you renew your interest in living life in Spanish. Let us guide you through our list of TopTen inspiring places in Spanish speaking countries where you will find harmony, balance and beauty that you will never forget.

10 Amazing places where people speak Spanish

1. Los Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe)

This majestic mountain range is located in the center of the Cantabrian Mountains in the northern part of the Iberian Peninsula between the Autonomous Communities of Asturias, Cantabria and Leon.

A favorite destination for Spanish climbers, El Naranjo de Bulnes is one of the most popular peaks and is often considered as the birthplace of the sport of rock climbing in Spain.

With over 64,000 hectares of unforgettable landscapes, we recommend the Picos de Europa to anyone who wants to get just a little closer to heaven, in all aspects.

2. The Generalife Palace

Located in Granada, the Spanish city where the splendor of the Muslim culture reached its highest levels.

The Generalife, a royal summer getaway hidden away behind the massive Alhambra Palace, is a haven of tranquility and balance with its sprawling gardens, beautiful buildings and paths that run throughout the complex.

Stroll through the fresh and serene scenery while losing yourself in the sound of the moving water and the sweet aroma of the ubiquitous plants and flowers…

3. Iguazu Falls

In the junction between Argentina and Brazil and very close to the Paraguay border are some of the most impressive natural falls imaginable.

With 275 different waterfalls, the roar of falling water can be heard from miles away. It is no surprise that this magical place has been recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Iguazú National Park, located in both Argentina and Brazil, offers protection to this unique ecosystem that exemplifies the strength and power that Mother Nature hides within.

4. Perito Moreno Glacier

Located in Los Glaciares National Park on the southern tip of Patagonia, Argentina, near the town of El Calafate, is one of the world's most impressive glaciers.

This huge river of ice is five kilometers wide and reaches a height of over 60 meters above sea level, where massive icebergs break off of the huge glacier and produce intense sounds.

The location is in a privileged area of the world where one can observe whales and other cetaceans in one of the largest fresh water reserves on the planet.

5. Montserrat

About 50 kilometers to the south of Barcelona we find a surprising place: the mountains of Montserrat (In Castilian, "Monte Serrado" due to the aspect that years of erosion have caused). It is the most representative mountain in Catalonia and home to a sacred monastery dedicated to the Virgin of Montserrat, a pilgrimage center of the Catalan people.

The Black Madonna (Moreneta), patron saint of Catalonia, is a Romanesque carving that, according to legend, miraculously appeared there in 880. When an attempt was made to move it from its place, it became so heavy that it was impossible to move. This seemed to prove to those who found it that it was the Virgen's will to stay there, where a chapel was built that would eventually evolve into the monastery that we see today.

6. Altamira Cave

This cave was inhabited for 35,000 years, and much later it was discovered by a hunter in 1868.

It showcases the most impressive cave art of the Upper Paleolithic period. Many have called Altamira "the Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art" due to its beauty, complexity and shear amount of pictures located inside. These prehistoric paintings inspire us to pay homage to our ancestors, an experience well worth the trip through the lovely landscapes of the Cantabrian town Santillana del Mar, where the cave is located.

Visit Altamira Cave and enjoy the harmony of these cave paintings, where you'll experience the memory of a primitive age through the artwork of its people.

7. The Wind Cave

The On the volcanic island of Tenerife, near the city of Icod de los Vinos, we can find an impressive example of the telluric force of the volcanoes that formed the Canary archipelago.

The Wind Cave, over 17 kilometers long, is the longest lava tube in the European Union and the fourth in the world. Upon entering the interior of the volcano you observe Mother Nature's majestic engineering work, which makes you shudder as you imagine the roar of liquid lava that once passed through the very spot where you stand now in perfect silence, in the heart of the Teide, where the only melody heard is that of your breathing and your excitedly beating heart...

8. Enchanted City

Near Valdecabras, in the province of Cuenca (Spain), at an elevation of about 1,500 meters is the location of our next site, the Enchanted City.

Carved out of the rocky ground from years of rain and wind erosion, these natural formationswere declared a Natural Site of National Interest in 1929.

The rock formations transport you to a magical landscape where anything is possible and your imagination finds hidden animals and monsters within the rocky shapes.

It is here, next to the Tormo Alto formation that is the symbol of the city, that Viriatus, the Spanish leader of the resistance against Roman rule, was cremated.

9. Doñana National Park

This natural park extends nearly 105,000 hectares, occupying parts of the provinces of Huelva, Seville and Cadiz. The name originated from the name "Doña" (Mrs.) Ana de Silva, wife of the seventh Duke of Medina Sidonia, original owner of the land which he used as private hunting grounds. The natural enclave is home to marshes and dunes, an important stopping point in European bird migration to and from Africa in the winter and spring.

This wildlife sanctuary hosts annually more than 300 species of birds, as well as some of the most important Spanish animals, including the highly endangered Iberian lynx. Also located in the park is the site of one of the most important religious celebrations in Spain: El Rocío.


In the village of Almonte, the event attracts more than a million pilgrims each year as they converge upon the village from various different controlled routes to pay homage to the Virgin of El Rocío.

The Peña el Cabrelillo, just behind town hall, is one of Andalusia's longest standing flamenco institutions, a place full of love, faithfulness and a passionate interest to safe guard el cante in its purest form. In the city of Ubeda, the Tablao casa-museo andalusí, next to the Parador, offers the unique opportunity to enjoy flamenco in a gorgeous building on calle Narváez.

10. La Alberca

In a busy world of Internet and globalization in which being in a hurry has become a normal part of life for most of us, La Alberca, located in the northern part of the province of Salamanca, is a peaceful haven of history where traditions have been carefully preserved.

The village feels like a living museum with its unique architecture.

Surrounded by thick impressive forests, the village is like an island of peace that makes visiting it a must for anyone who finds themselves in the proximity of Salamanca.

Photo thanks to: Max Westby, Granadadian Weirdo, Cadampol, Adry, Yishac, Turismo de Tenerife, Machbel, Rlasaosa, Fernando Cuenca, Turistas x Naturaleza

If there's one sound associated with Spain, it's the dramatic melodies of flamenco. Read on and discover must-include spots for your flamenco tour in Spain.

1. Seville

If you're in Andalusia's vibrant capital city, you've got to go to Los Gallos. Located just two minutes from Murillo Gardens, this is one of Seville's most famous and prestigious tablaos (flamenco venues).

Flamenco lovers won't want to miss the wonderful exhibits displayed at the city's Museo del baile flamenco (Flamenco Dance Museum). You'll find it on the street that bears its name, right next to the Giralda and the Cathedral. Another Seville flamenco hotspot is Puerta de Triana, a performance hall on Castilla street in the legendary Triana neighborhood, famous as a hub for flamenco activity.

2. Madrid

Spain's capital seems to absorb the country's most exciting cultural traditions, and flamenco is no exception. The city offers some of the oldest and most intimate venues for catching flamenco action.

The Corral de la Morería, included in The Michelin Guide and centrally located right next to the Plaza Mayor (on calle Morería), is one of Madrid's most historic tablaos. The famous Café de chinita sits in Madrid's historic district, between the Palacio Real de Madrid (the Royal Palace of Madrid) and the Gran Vía. Finally, the Corral de la Pacheca, near the Plaza de Castilla, rounds out a golden triangle of cante jondo (deep song).

3. Cordoba

Heading through the historical Jewish quarter, you'll find El Cardenal, where flamenco performers offer spectacular entertainment to audiences dining on local cuisine in an open patio.

On the back side of the Plaza de la Corredera, La Bulería is another essential flamenco house, along with Rincón del cante at the Plaza de las Tendillas.

4. Granada

Visitors are strongly encouraged to visit the Camino del Sacromonte to see the Cueva de María la Canastera (the Cave of María la Canastera) and experience joyful cheer accompanied by song, dance, and hypnotic hand clapping.

In the historic Arab district of Albaicín, Peña la Platería is Granada's most vibrant flamenco tablao, a place that's decidedly not designed for tourists, which always guarantees an authentic experience.

5. Cadiz

The lively cheer of this coastal city will invite you to lose your way in the old quarter, where the smooth sounds of guitar strumming and passionate singing guide you to La Cava, next to the Plaza de España. Here, you'll also find the Peña Flamenca de Enrique el Mellizo, named after one of Cadiz´s most historic and celebrated musical figures. This is where seasoned flamenco masters and new-comers alike offer memorable performances for the enjoyment of visitors as they savor the delicious
flavors of Cadiz cuisine.

6. Jerez de la Frontera

Considered by many as the home of the cante jondo, this is one of the world's most influential flamenco centers. Back dropped by elegant horses and the robust aromas of sherry wine, the city offers emblematic flamenco performance halls such as Peña la Bulería in the populated neighborhood of San Miguel, next to the Ermita de San Telmo. The sense of humor that characterizes the people of Cadiz is recalled in the name of another popular Jerez tablao: El lagá del Tío Parrilla (located just across from the Museum of Archeology), which offers the most spectacular dance shows imaginable.

7. Malaga

The Peña Juan Breva tablao sits huddled by the foot of the Gibralfaro Mountain, where it is cooed by the city's unique traditional melodies.

Its stage has witnessed some of the greatest flamenco performances ever. If you'd like to not only observe, but also participate in this high passion art form, you can always head to the Liceo Flamenco, between the Cathedral and Gibralfaro Castle, where you can visit the flamenco museum, taste wines from Malaga and take dance and guitar lessons.

8. Barcelona

As a city that has historically received large amounts of people emigrating from Andalusia, Catalonia's capital is home to some of flamenco's most acclaimed artists. Right downtown on the Rambla, opposite the Teatre del Liceu (the cathedral of classical and opera music, you'll find the Tablao Flamenco Cordobés. Crossing the street you come across La Traviata a Sara Baras.

The legacy of Carmen Amaya, perhaps the greatest flamenco dancer in history, lives on at El Tablao de Carmen, located in the well-known Poble espanyol, on Montjuic.

9. Jaen

The Plaza Coca de la Piñera, next to the library, puts on a surprising program of flamenco shows nearly all year round.

The Peña el Cabrelillo, just behind town hall, is one of Andalusia's longest standing flamenco institutions, a place full of love, faithfulness and a passionate interest to safe guard el cante in its purest form. In the city of Ubeda, the Tablao casa-museo andalusí, next to the Parador, offers the unique opportunity to enjoy flamenco in a gorgeous building on calle Narváez.

10. Murcia

This city-province-autonomous community (all in one) has a special flamenco tradition, as demonstrated in the Festival de Cante de las minas, celebrated in La Unión on the last week in March. At this yearly festival, Spain's best flamenco singer is awarded flamenco's equivalent to the Oscar, known as la lámpara minera. In the city of Murcia, the historic Teatro Romea has been home to the Cumbre Flamenca de Murcia for the last twenty years, a symposium that gathers the most respected singers, guitar players and flamenco experts for a three week period to discuss the finer points of the art and to offer special performances.

We hope that after this quick tour you decide to include some of these cities on your own tour of Spain, where the magic of flamenco awaits to inspire you in true Spanish style.

Photo thanks to: randomix, im elsewhere, Gabrilu, Placida, Dani, Johnny Shaw, Sofie, Migpascual, Dariorana, Keith Williamson