Whether you are traveling around Andalusia or looking for a short getaway, Jerez is often overlooked, unfairly so. It’s a small city, but therefore not any less charming than better known Andalusian cities like Malaga and Cordoba for example. Having its own airport with several European destinations, makes Jerez quite easy accessible.
Jerez is easy (and very recommended!) to combine with a trip to the province capital, Cadiz. Cadiz, being almost completely surrounded by water is an ancient port, providing a perfect combination of breath-taking history and a day at the beach.
But what exactly makes Jerez de la Frontera worth your visit? The following 5 reasons will point that out for you, but it doesn’t stop there, the rest is for you to discover!
Andalusia is known for its horses, so if you do love horses, Jerez is where you need to be. The city is home to The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Foundation, known all over the world for its horse show ‘How the Andalusian horses dance’. However, it’s not JUST a show, it’s an equestrian ballet, made complete with traditional Spanish music and costumes.
We know, horses, you’re either a big fan or not at all. But we dare to argue that this form of art won’t leave any spectator unimpressed. To already get a taste of what to expect, check out their website
Jerez de la Frontera is part of a ‘triangle’ of land where Sherry wine is produced. The most famous producers are Tio Pepe and Sandeman, of which you can visit the bodegas for a tour and a tasting of their Sherry and Brandy wines.
But even if you are not interested in a tour, wine is everywhere to be found in Jerez… Go for tapas in a traditional Tabanco and get Sherry served straight from the barrel.
Its proximity to the sea makes Jerez a great place to eat fish. In this traditional food market local tradesmen sell the local catch, and in a beautiful environment too. Be sure to try the prawns from Sanlucar de Barrameda and sea urchins and oysters from Cadiz!
To get the fish at its freshest, avoid Monday… Because the boats don’t go out on Sunday.
Other seasonal product that you should try around this time are snails (look for signs that say ‘hay caracoles’, they’ll be all around) and asparagus!
Flamenco, which started off as a gypsy-dance, shows a totally different side of the Andalusian culture. The gypsy quarter, Santiago, is THE place to be to catch a flamenco show because it is home to a lot of local artists. Some say it’s the true home of flamenco, but then again that’s a statement with which the people of Triana, Seville, wouldn’t agree.
Especially if you’re only passing through, the best way to discover Jerez de la Frontera by bike. Get to know all the stories and legends of the city with a local guide who shows you everything you need to see in the city in the typical relaxed Andalusian way… A biketour takes you to places you wouldn’t on your own and you can cover bigger distances than when walking.