Vejer de la Frontera is one of the prettiest towns in the whole of Spain, gleams like Persil-white, sugar cubes on a ridge 200m above sea level. Cosmopolitan and yet steeped in tradition, it is easy to understand why bustling Vejer is the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of the pueblos blancos in western Andalucía. Artisans peddle their wears to the wealth of visitors, whilst the restaurants vie for business with their mouth-watering menus and innovative locations - like La Castilleria in the nearby, verdant oasis of Santa Lucia.
Approaching Vejer de la Frontera from almost all directions you get a tantalizing glimpse of a picture perfect, white-washed, hill-top town, home to several excellent restaurants, a daily market and much more...
Just 3km from Vejer is sub-tropical Santa Lucia, where avocado, banana trees along with a multitude of flora and fauna enjoy an enviable climate - nourished from the fresh spring water cascading through the village. Nibble some tapas on the terraces of the local bar El Toro or for those with a bigger appetite devour the succulent grilled meats in La Castilleria and combine with a stroll up to the Roman aqueduct or sample the organic produce and local specialities of Isabel's shop. Santa Lucia weaves a magic spell on visitors and most return again and again.
Less than 15 minutes drive are the golden-sand beaches of El Palmar, Mangueta, Zahora, Caños de Meca and Barbate, each has a different attraction and vibe - all are worth visiting. A few minutes further are the protected coves of Roche and endless beach of Zahara de los Atunes.
For a special day out visit the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, followed by a fresh fish lunch in a wooden beach bar with views across the straits to Morocco and then a siesta or swim in the crystal clear waters of Bolonia - arguably the best beach on the Costa de la Luz; possibly one of the best in Spain!
Culture vultures will also enjoy a visit to Cádiz and/or Jerez or even Tangier, adding an exotic taste of Africa to your European holiday! Closer to home is Medina Sidonia, sitting 300m above sea level with views to Arcos de la Frontera, the Natural Parks of Grazalema and Los Alcornocales and the Bay of Cádiz, Rota and El Puerto de Santa María. Soak up these views from the castle ruins and then revive your energies on the terrace of La Vista de Medina - which enjoys panoramics views over this pretty and authentically Spanish town, past rolling hills fringed by the Atlantic.
Golfers will be spoiled for choice as Vejer is home to the manicured course of Montenmedio, and just minutes from the course of Chiclana.
Dining options include those previously mentioned in Santa Lucia, but also include probably the best restaurant in the area Restaurante Patria in Patria, the Italian Il Forno in La Muela and numerous restaurants in Vejer itself, the most famous being the atmospheric El Jardin de Califa or the excellent Restaurante Trafalgar on the pretty Plaza de España.
Casa Lucia and Vista Vejer sit proudly with rural views on the edge of the sleepy hamlet of Santa Lucia.
