Archive for December, 2007

Winter holidays in Vejer

December 31, 2007

Vejer is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year, the winter being no exception - those of us who are used to the colder climes of northern Europe or America will surely welcome the temperatures which vary between 14°C and 20°C (61°F - 69°F). The extended hours of dazzling sun also offer another means to beat the seasonal blues - Vejer is located on the Costa de la Luz (literally “coast of light”), and with a yearly average of over 3200 hours of sunshine, that name is hugely apt. An additional benefit of visiting the area out of season is that the stunning wide sandy beaches at El Palmar, Conil, Zahara de los Atunes and Canos de Meca are considerably emptier when compared with the summer months. Of course, you might come across the odd rain shower at this time of year, but these usually pass quickly. On a clear day (of which there are many!), you should be able to make out the coastline of north Africa - Andalucia representing the end of one continent, and the beginning of another…

For those interested in sporting pursuits on the water, the coast is a renowned international destination for windsurfing, and the old Moorish town of Tarifa (38 kilometers from Vejer), is at its very epicentre. More locally, surfers can enjoy some truly excellent conditions at El Palmar (a fine beach break spot) and Conil (reef spot) as the Atlantic winter swells take hold - with fewer swimmers in the water at this time of year, the freedom of the waves beckons!

In Vejer itself, the pace of life slows down even more during the winter months, and offers visitors a taste of the real Spain minus the crowds, making for an ideal getaway from hectic urban lifestyles. The area is also rich in history, and no trip would be complete without a visit to Cape Trafalgar, scene of one of the most pivotal naval battles of all time, and where the combined seaborne might of France and Spain locked horns with the British fleet, under the command of a certain Horatio Nelson.

New Year’s Eve sees the people of Vejer coming together to enjoy the traditional huvas - grapes - one being eaten with each chime at midnight, and washed down with liberal amounts of champagne or cava - a wonderful way to see the coming year in!

If you want to arrange winter holidays in Vejer, you might consider staying at our delightful townhouse in the historic town centre, and an ideal base from which to explore the magical Costa de la Luz region - we look forward to welcoming you soon!

Finally, we’d like to extend our very best wishes for the coming year to all our readers - feliz año nuevo!