The Costa de la Luz ( The coast of light ) is the most southern all the Spanish Costas and definately one of my favorites. The coast of light is aptly names with the clean Atlantic waters washing the shores of the provinces of Cadiz and Huelva. The coast runs from Tarifa ( wind surfers paradise ) in the east to the Taguas estuary bordering Portugal in the west.

Fantastic clean beaches, pine clad countryside, picturesque fishing villages and tranquil surroundings are some of the many advantages from this part of Spain. The Costa de la Luz has a slightly more milder climate than its neighbor to the East the Costa del Sol, however the building side has been a lot more controlled and most of the are here has maintained that authentic Spanish Village feel. The main tourist resorts have built low rise hotels and properties that have fitted much better into the natural settings of pine trees which line almost the whole coast.

The sand here is much finer than other parts of Spain, although it must be said can be prone to stronger winds that seem to fan the province almost every day. These winds have made the Costa de la Luz a firm favorite with wind sports enthusiasts from all over the world.

The main towns and villages along the coast include:

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Cadiz along with Huelva are the main towns which lay along the Costa del la Luz. Cadiz is the more beautiful and historic of the two in my opinion. This historic city is divided into two main parts, the modern and the old. Although the modern side has all the trapping of modern day living, the marinas, yachts, modern hotels etc the old part reveals the real history. The old town center is abound with character and true Andalusian flavors and is made up of three barrios ( quarters ) The Barrio La Viña , home to the fishing district, the Barrio El Populo , said to be the oldest part of the city and the Barrio Santa Maria.

A good time to visit Cadiz is during the carnivals held in February each year. It is one of Spains best carnivals with ten days of street processions and an unrivalled party atmosphere.

Huelva

The city of Huelva looks a bit rundown in parts and is not a main destination for the international traveler although the outlining towns and natural parks are some of the finest you will find in the country. The long sandy unspoilt beaches are to die for.

A very unique and popular place to stay in Huelva is the Hacienda Montija Hotel and Spa Just 15 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from the centre of Huelva, this beautifully renovated 11th-century property features a fabulous spa and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy the pool and gardens. Located at the entrance to the city, the Hacienda Montija Hotel & Spa is perfect for those wishing to stay outside Huelva's centre and still have easy access to the city centre.

Another beautiful hotel just 6 kms from the city loacted along side Punta Umbria`s fantastic beach is the Barcelo Punta Umbria This first rate hotel, built by the Barcelo Construction Division in the distinctive 'Andalusian' style.

Barbate.

Endearing fishing village with access to all the best beaches and the natural parks in the area, low rise tourism with plenty of good eating houses, fresh fish is a must and Barbate has enough eateries to satisfy the most enthusiast of fresh fish and seafood lover.

A great value small hotel in Barbate is the Hotel Playa del Carmen This family-run hotel is just 2 minutes walk from the Playa del Carmen Beach and the Barbate Maritime Promenade. It offers air-conditioned rooms with plasma TV, free Wi-Fi and a private balcony. Hotel Playa del Carmen has an on-site café and a TV room including daily newspapers and internet access. The hotel is within 10 minutes drive of several beautiful beaches, including Playa de la Hierbabuena in the Breña y Marismas de Barbate Nature Reserve.

Chipiona

Very popular with the Spanish tourist, again lovely long sandy beaches. Chipiona has a very Spanish ambience about it and is a great family destination. Explore the backstreets and you will be rewarded with finding some of the cheapest fresh fish restaurants and tapas bars anywhere in the area.

Zahara de las Atunes

Typical example of how a small town with one of the best beaches along the coast, it has also maintained its small village charm due to lack of high rise development or any major construction for that fact. As in the case of many of the fishing villages along the Costa de la Luz Sol the main catch here is the Tuna which is fished using the traditional almadrabas method ( fishermen using very long poles with a line and hook perched on the side of fishing trawlers ).

The apres beach and sun activities here are laid back and peaceful nights are guaranteed here supping your favorite brew in one of the many quaint local bars.

A very popular hotel near the beach is the Hotel Pozo del Duque It is located in a cove, an untouched paradise of the Costa de la Luz.The hotel is a typical Andalusian building surrounded by greenery. Enjoy soaking up the sunshine by the Pozo del Duque's swimming pool or on the beach located opposite the hotel.

Matalscanas

Offers long sandy beaches and sits next to the famous Doñana Natural park. Again low rise tourism and frequented by well off property owners from Sevilla and Cadiz so the prices are generally a little higher .

The Vime Tierra del Golf is a fabulous 4 star establishment. Situated in a quiet residential area and with a fantastic panoramic over the Atlantic Ocean. Only 45 minutes (100km) from Seville Airport and 1 hour (150km) from the international Faro Airport. The Tierra Mar Golf Hotel is the ideal place to spend a delightful family holiday, be in contact with the nature of the Donana National Park.

The Carabela Club is another very popular hotel in the town. This exceptionally well-facilitated hotel is situated within the Doñana national park, next to a golf course and just 10 minutes from the beach. The hotel offers regular shuttle transportation to and from the beach (subject to seasons) and an exclusive beach area with sunbeds, as well as games, activities and live shows.

Conil

Conil de la Frontera is a former fishing village which has become a popular, low-rise resort. Its has a long fine white sandy beach and once again has a real village feel to the place. You will find a fine selection of fish restaurants along the Paseo Maritimo ( beach front area ) which buzzes nicely with a Spanish vibe at night as the locals join the holidays makers in enjoying the catch of the day.

The smallish white prawns ( gamba blanca ) are a delicacy along this coast and although can be on the pricier side are well worth trying for there excellent flavor. Also for fish lovers June is a good time to visit when the Tuna is celebrated and many restaurants offer this locally caught fish at discount prices.


For reasonably priced 4 star accommodation in the town is the Resort Fuerte Conil this is a large resort set on Fontanilla Beach, 5 minutes’ walk from the centre of Conil. It features an outdoor swimming pool, spa and free Wi-Fi. The air-conditioned rooms have balconies and some offer sea views. All rooms are spacious and brightly decorated. Each has satellite TV and a hairdryer in the bathroom. El Olivo Restaurant serves international cuisine and the pool-side grill restaurant specialises in fish and rice dishes. There is also a bar with daily shows.

Another very popular hotel is the Hotel-Apartamentos Loto Conil This is is a practical complex located in the town, 1 kilometre from the beach, boasting its own outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. Lying just inland from the Costa de la Luz beaches, accommodation at the Loto Conil is bright and well-equipped, with flat-screen TVs and air conditioning.

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Tarifa is a small charming town in southern Spain's province of Cadiz. The Punta de Tarifa, also part of the town, is mainland Europe's southernmost point. Popular among Europeans for its year-round sunshine and warmth, this area serves as an excellent stopover on your travels – lacking a selection of hotels, the town is a perfect site for camping and rural trips. Its magnificent views of the Strait of Gibraltar and Morocco's Atlas Mountains, a mere 14 kilometres away, are an ideal scenario for relaxation and a good start to your exploration of the area.

There are regular ferry services between Tarifa and Tangier, and coach rides to the larger, nearby town of Algeciras. For those looking for diversity in their trip, why not head over to Gibraltar, about 30 minutes away, and snoop around the exciting British Territory. Tarifa itself is a very historic town, boasting some impressive Roman city ruins, the almost undamaged Guzman Castle, and the remains of Tarifa's medieval walls. The town offers many little eateries, which serve up fresh, homely produce, the most renowned of which is seafood and fish.

A unique hotel in the area is the Hotel La Torre This classic country house has been converted into a beautiful hotel, boasting magnificent views of Los Alcornocales National Park. From the spacious and comfortable rooms of Hotel La Torre, you can enjoy views of the National Park and the untouched beaches. At the back of the complex you can spend some time sunbathing, protected from the wind

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Google Map of the Costa de la Luz