About 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. To this day you can see the annual catching of the tuna in the spring and autumn off the beach. 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. Unspoilt by by mass tourism, Zahara de los Atunes attracts visitors who want to enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches - and the largest at just over 8km in length - of the Andalusian Costa de la Luz. The village boasts excellent restaurants as well as the so-called chiringuitos (beach bars) in the summer. Occasionally, you can be lucky enough to see dolphins or 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 horseriding along the beach or in the forests invite the active tourist to explore the beauty of this area. Of course windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and all watersports are possible. The windswept town of Tarifa, only 30 km away, is known as Spain’s most famous surf spot.
Daytrips:
For those interested in culture, the province of Cádiz, historically frequented by various cultures such as the Vikings, Berbers, Phoenicians, and Romans, is full of fascinating 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. A walk down the twisty narrow streets avokes the rich and varied history of this town. Particularly prominent is the influence of the Arabs who held the town for 593 years. Whale watching trips in the Straits of Gibraltar are not to be missed, as well as a trip to Africa.
Other Activities:
whale watching, day trips to Africa, sightseeing