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Fortified Spain – The Frontera Towns
Overview
Introduction
The province of Cadiz, in southwest Spain, is liberally sprinkled with ‘Frontier’ towns, whose roots date from Islamic times. With narrow, cobbled streets, historic buildings and white washed houses, these old towns were established by the Christians many centuries ago to defend Spain from the Moors. Upon the hilltops, with their scenic views, these strategically placed towns are easily reached by car and are a delight to explore on foot.
Itinerary includes:
- Return flights to Seville Airport
- 7 days car hire
- 2 Nights at the Parador de Arcos, Arcos de la Frontera (Bed and Breakfast)
- 2 Nights at Casa Shelly Hospederia, Vejer de la Frontera (Bed and Breakfast)
- 3 Nights at Villa Jerez Hotel, Jerez de la Frontera (Bed and Breakfast)
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast
Agenda
Day 1 - Day of arrival
On arrival at Seville airport collect your hire car and self drive (c.1 hour 30 minutes) to the Parador in Arcos de la Frontera.
The Parador enjoys an enviable position, at the top of the historic hilltop town of Arcos, with spectacular views over the plains and Guadalete River below. Access to Cabildo Square, where the Parador is situated, is via narrow cobbled roads and although parking is limited, the hotel reception will be able to offer advice on alternative parking options.
Overnight at the Parador de Arcos, Andalucia.
Parador de Arcos, Andalucia
Day 2 - Arcos de la Frontera
Spend the day exploring Arcos de la Frontera starting at Plaza Cabildo, the heart of the old town, with its panoramic viewpoint and impressive church of Santa Maria de la Asuncion. Alternatively, head further afield to Jimena de la Frontera (c.2 hours). The drive takes you via country roads, through the Natural Park of Alcornocales. Jimena de la Frontera itself boasts a Moorish castle where, on a clear day, the views from its vantage point above the town are breathtaking.
Overnight at the Parador de Arcos, Andalucia.
Arcos de la Frontera, Andalucia
Day 3 - Vejer de la Frontera
After breakfast, drive to Casa Shelly Hospederia in Vejer de la Frontera (c.1 hour 15 minutes), located in the historic pedestrianised centre (free parking is available on the outskirts of town). Vejer has a Moorish feel and retains much of its 15th century walls. Narrow cobbled streets, a castle with its small museum, two surviving original gateways, the ‘Divino Salvador’ church, a Jewish quarter and the Plaza de España – Vejer’s pretty main square, are some of the many gems to be seen here.
Overnight at the Casa Shelly Hospederia, Andalucia.
Casa Shelly Hospederia, Andalucia
Day 4 - Vejer de la Frontera
Vejer is in the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) area of Spain, an area renowned for its spectacular unspoilt beaches which are within easy reach. Conil de la Frontera, on the Costa de la Luz, is a beach town south of Cadiz and is popular with tourists due to its atmospheric evenings. Although not best known for its monuments, there are a few which can still be seen in the old town. Slightly more inland, on a hill, you will find Chiclana de la Frontera, a historic town dating from 1303. Famous for its dolls, it is home to what is believed to be the oldest doll factory in the country – La Fábrica Museo de Muñecos Marín.
Overnight at the Casa Shelly Hospederia, Andalucia.
Vejer de la Frontera, Andalucia
Day 5 - Jerez de la Frontera
Today, depart Vejer de la Frontera and drive to the city of Jerez de la Frontera (c.1 hour), to the Villa Jerez Hotel. Once a private residence to a sherry dynasty, the hotel is located within easy reach of the old walled town of Jerez (c.15 minute walk) and offers free parking. The famous Spanish riding school, one of the highlights of the city, is nearby and performances take place twice weekly (Tuesdays and Thursdays).
Overnight at the Villa Jerez Hotel, Andalucia.
Villa Jerez Hotel, Andalucia
Day 6 - Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez de la Frontera is famous for its sherry and flamenco. Throughout the city you will find ‘bodegas’ open to the public, where it is possible to view how this fortified wine is made as well as partake in some sherry tasting. Flamenco can be seen, and most importantly felt, in some of the ‘Tabancos’ in Jerez, with regular events taking place. Wander around the city, there is so much to see – the imposing Alcázar de Jerez, the cathedral, the 15th century Church of Santiago and picturesque squares filled with cafés, serving delicious tapas - to name but a few.
Overnight at the Villa Jerez Hotel, Andalucia.
Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucia
Day 7 - Day of leisure
Spend your last day re-visiting your favourite site or head to Calle Larga for a spot of shopping. This popular and long semi-pedestrian historic street has some of the best shops in the city. Or for a spot of pampering, seek out the Hammam (Arab Baths).
Overnight at the Villa Jerez Hotel, Andalucia.
Villa Jerez Hotel, Andalucia
Day 8 - Day of departure
After breakfast, drive to Seville airport (c.1 hour 15 minutes) for your return flight to the UK.
Accommodation
Parador de Arcos - Night 1 to 2
Location, location is what really counts and what a location! Right at the top of the old town with spectacular views over the Guadalete River almost to the sea and Cadiz, the location of this Parador is unrivalled.
Location, location is what really counts and what a location! Right at the top of the old town with spectacular views over the Guadalete River almost to the sea and Cadiz, the location of this Parador is unrivalled.
Steeped in history and legend, it is not certain when the Parador was built but the main entrance is off the Cabildo Plaza, the old castle parade ground. Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Christians have all left their mark on Arcos and certainly the Parador was there in Moorish times looking out over the 11th century walls. On the other side of the square is the 15th century castle of the Duke of Arcos and the right hand side is occupied by the spectacular facade of the 18th century church of Santa Maria.
The interior of the Parador is traditional with a Moorish courtyard being the centrepiece. Ochre painted, vaulted corridors complete the picture and the dining room and terrace seemingly overhang the precipice.
Accommodation
- 24 air-conditioned rooms, traditionally decorated, including 4 single rooms, 12 standard rooms and 8 superior rooms with terrace
- Some standard rooms will accommodate an extra bed suitable for an adult or a child
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- Restaurant serving traditional dishes
- Bar and lounge with panoramic view
- TV room
- Panoramic terrace
- 1 Lift
- Gift Shop
- Excellent base for exploring Arcos
- Gateway to the White Villages
- 48km from Grazalema National Park
- 31km from Jerez de la Frontera
- Golf nearby
- Canoeing
- Parking in the historic centre is difficult. You can drive up, along very narrow cobbled roads, to the Parador and park in the square opposite (c.4.84 Euros per day) - speak to the receptionist on arrival regarding best parking options
Casa Shelly Hospederia - Night 3 to 4
Nestling in one of Vejer’s narrow streets, within the ancient walls, is this absolutely charming, tastefully renovated, owner-managed guesthouse, worthy of five-star status.
Nestling in one of Vejer’s narrow streets, within the ancient walls, is this absolutely charming, tastefully renovated, owner-managed guesthouse, worthy of five-star status. Casa Shelly feels more like a home where the attention to detail is clearly evident throughout.
Moorish influence is everywhere, from the atrium to the gentle trickling water fountain in the courtyard. With under floor heating and tastefully decorated comfortable bedrooms you could not wish for a better base in this picturesque town.
The historic centre of Vejer is just beyond your doorstep with a good selection of restaurants and bars for breakfast (breakfast is not included). In the kitchen at Casa Shelly there are however complimentary coffee and tea facilities and guests are welcome to help themselves to a selection of biscuits, muffins and fresh fruit. The beach is just 15 minutes drive away.
Accommodation
- 7 rooms, all individually and beautifully decorated, including a single room, courtyard room, blue room, green room, small double room with terrace, superior room with terrace and junior suite.
Amenities/Leisure
- No breakfast included but many places close-by serve breakfasts daily
- Small library/sitting room
- Entrance hall with seating area
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel
- Iron and ironing board on request
- Communal kitchen with fridge, sink, coffee maker, kettle, microwave and free coffee, tea and biscuits
- Peaceful courtyard with seating
- Church bells ring half hourly from 8am to 12pm
- Free parking on the outskirts of the town - 5-7 minutes' walk. Paid covered parking available with prior reservation at 250m from the house - prices on request
Villa Jerez Hotel - Night 5 to 7
Built in 1955 as a private residence of the Domecq family, sherry dynasty, the property is set back from the wide avenue leading into Jerez and is approached via a wide drive fringed with ornamental gardens.
Built in 1955 as a private residence of the Domecq family, sherry dynasty, the property is set back from the wide avenue leading into Jerez and is approached via a wide drive fringed with ornamental gardens. The walled old town of Jerez is a 15 minute walk or a short taxi ride away.
This magnificent lemon coloured, classic, hacienda style mansion set in 4,000sqm of landscaped gardens is an ideal country retreat from which to visit the delightful town of Jerez. It is located within a few minutes walk of the world famous Spanish riding school and is an ideal base from which to view the performances that take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The hotel still feels like a home and prides itself on its personal service.
Accommodation
- 18 air-conditioned rooms, individually decorated in classic style, including standard rooms, superior rooms and junior suites.
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- ‘Las Yucas’ restaurant
- Bar and terrace bar
- Library / TV room
- Large outdoor swimming pool (10 x 14m) with ample terraces – open Jun-Sep
- Gym, steam bath and Scottish shower
- Various meeting rooms
- Free private parking
- 15 minutes walk to the historic city centre or c.5 Euros by taxi
Route Map
Best time to go
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Time Difference
GMT + 1 hour
Currency
Euro
Language
Spanish
Average flight times
2 hours 20 minutes
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Average temperature
Average rainfall
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- FEB
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- SEP
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