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Cádiz, just about 30 minutes from Conil, is renowned as the oldest city in Western Europe. The historic architecture, mostly from the 18th century, gives nearly every building a story to tell. We love Cádiz as a day-trip destination, and instead of focusing solely on sightseeing, we recommend wandering through the narrow streets of the Old Town to soak up the lively atmosphere.
We particularly enjoyed the coastal parks, Parque Genovés and Alameda Apodaca, where you might even hear parrots chirping if you’re lucky. The Old Town is full of shopping opportunities, with a blend of classic stores and unique boutiques. The Cádiz Market is also a highlight, offering fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and regional delicacies.
For a tasty break, we recommend the restaurant Balandro. At the bar, you can enjoy delicious tapas. For a unique experience, head to the Torre Tavira, where a Camera Obscura allows you to view the city’s street life reflected onto a parabolic mirror. Multilingual guided tours (including German) can be reserved in advance at torretavira.com.
Fun fact for film buffs: the western beach was a filming location for the James Bond movie Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan.
Vejer de la Frontera is a picturesque white-washed village that has retained its charm without being overrun by tourists. Just 15 minutes from Conil, Vejer offers a tranquil escape from the bustle, perfect for a half-day trip. The narrow streets adorned with colorful flower pots give the village a unique Moorish-Andalusian charm. The well-loved restaurant El Jardín del Califa (mentioned in our favorite restaurants) fits perfectly with the village’s ambiance.
North of Vejer lies the small village of Santa Lucía, known for its still-functioning Roman-Arabic aqueduct and lush, subtropical vegetation. Along the Ruta Molinos de Agua hiking trail, you’ll encounter small waterfalls and seven historical water mills, some dating back to the 16th century and the Islamic period. The 5 km trail starts and ends in Santa Lucía and is family-friendly. There’s parking available by the small church.
After the hike, we recommend a meal at the charming La Castilleria restaurant, located at the foot of the aqueduct, or a visit to El Jardín de Califa in Vejer for a perfect end to the day.
Tarifa, about an hour from Conil, is the southernmost town in Spain and a popular destination for water sports. With its beautiful beaches and perfect wind conditions, it’s a haven for kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts. Even if you’re not into water sports, Tarifa has plenty to offer, including the Castle of Guzmán el Bueno and a scenic stroll through the Old Town’s charming streets and boutiques. On clear days, you can even see Morocco across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Jerez de la Frontera, about 45 minutes from Conil, is famous for its sherry wine, equestrian heritage, and flamenco. The city is home to numerous wineries (bodegas) where you can learn about the production and sample the renowned sherry. One unique experience here is the Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre (Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art), where you can watch the mesmerizing “How the Andalusian Horses Dance” show. In the historic center, you’ll also find the impressive Jerez Cathedral and Alcázar Fortress.
Only 30 minutes from Conil, Medina-Sidonia is one of Spain’s oldest towns, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Its Old Town is a beautiful blend of whitewashed buildings and ancient remnants from Roman and Moorish times. Highlights include the Castle Ruins and Santa María la Mayor Church. Strolling through the streets, you’ll encounter historical architecture and authentic Andalusian atmosphere. Be sure to try Medina-Sidonia’s famous Alfajores – traditional sweets made with honey and almonds.
Bolonia, about an hour from Conil, is a small beach village known for its breathtaking beach and large sand dunes. A special highlight is the Baelo Claudia archaeological site, one of the best-preserved Roman cities from the 2nd century BC. Here, you’ll find ruins of a temple, theater, and ancient tuna processing workshops. The Bolonia beach itself is a stunning natural spot, with crystal-clear waters and a tranquil vibe, ideal for a relaxing day out.
El Puerto de Santa María, about 45 minutes from Conil, is a delightful harbor town known for its sherry bodegas, lively fish market, and golden beaches. The Castillo de San Marcos, a 13th-century fortress, is one of the top sights here. You can also enjoy a boat tour across the Bay of Cádiz, offering a unique view of the Andalusian coast. A visit during May allows you to experience the famous Romería del Rocío, a local pilgrimage with horse-drawn wagons and traditional Andalusian attire.
Approximately 1.5 hours from Conil, Gibraltar is a unique British Overseas Territory at the southern tip of Spain. The iconic Rock of Gibraltar offers spectacular views across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco. Take a cable car to the top to enjoy the panorama and visit the famous Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild monkeys. St. Michael’s Cave is another highlight, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites, sometimes hosting concerts. A valid passport is required for entry.
