A city with charisma – Jerez, Spain
The lure of Flamenco & Fino
In 2014 Gary & I ventured on our first Spanish road trip from the UK (although more was to come in 2016 as we loved it so much).
Aroma of the barrels
My initial thoughts of Jerez, were that it was the spiritual home of Sherry, and this was a delicacy Gary, and I wanted to discover more about.
Other than that, it was the motor racing circuit that sprang to mind.
A helpful guide
Ahhh the call of Andalucía, I love nothing more than planning a trip and so often I use the DK Eyewitness books. I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our southern Spanish road trips, now you can grab the revised copy.
After a day in the car
Arriving late on a Saturday afternoon, once we had enjoyed a drive through some Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) and an all too brief visit to Cadiz. We immediately immersed ourselves into the relaxing culture of enjoying a local tipple in a bustling plaza.
After visiting Granada & Ronda and discovering more about this region of Spain, I was aware that we might find a traditional Flamenco bar in Jerez.
I popped into the local tourist office, and they gave us a few pointers as to where to head that night.
Distinctive tones of the Spanish Guitar
So, after indulging in the local tapas, off we went to find Tabanco El Pasaje a Sherry bar. Ohh this was getting better and better not only Flamenco but Sherry as well.
The evening was wonderful; we found a gnarly old barrel to stand up against and whiled away the evening listening to the Spanish guitar and soul moving ballads.
Keen to enjoy more of Jerez, we headed out into the warm evening air and spotted some local couples, young and old, dressed in their finery, tangoing the night away.
Just for these experiences alone, I would return to Jerez.
Have You?
Discovered the wonderful distinctive range of Sherries, from the light, crisp finos to the wonderfully sweet Pedro Ximénez. What is your favourite?
Serene morning with a Bodega tour
After our first fantastic evening in Jerez, we were ready to discover more of the city.
A Sunday morning in Jerez is a fairly quiet affair but gave us the opportunity to go for a wander along the peaceful streets.
As our taste buds had been intrigued by the joy of Sherry, we decided to head to the González Byass Bodega and take in their full tour and find out a little bit more about this fine wine.
Check out Gary’s post on our González Byass Sherry tour.
Did you know?
That González Byass can trace its sherry origins back to 1835?
Relaxing afternoon
Strolling around Jerez was a real pleasure, particularly amongst the tranquil lanes around the Cathedral.
The impressive Cathedral was built during the 17th-century in the style of Gothic & Baroque.
Moorish
A short walk from the Cathedral is the Alcázar of Jerez de la Frontera. This striking Moorish fortress was built during the 12th-century and now houses peaceful patios and gardens.
The very distinctive towers and walls are synonymous with the Moorish history, which originates from just across the shores in North Africa.
Tempted to?
Embark on a road trip adventure from your own doorstep, and discover Spain's hidden delights at your pace. It is so easy to hop onto a Brittany Ferry and let them take the strain, while you sail down to the north coast of Spain. All the while dreaming of tapas and sunshine.
Circuito de Jerez
With a motor circuit, just on our doorstep, it would have been rude not to visit, wouldn’t it?
Or why not?
Fly in and discover Spain’s picturesque countryside or even visit the windmills on the plains of La Mancha. You can do it all on a road trip, Rental Cars searches multiple well-known car hire brands and discovers the deals that suit you the best.
Accommodation
Our accommodation for the two nights we were in Jerez, was at the luxury boutique Hotel Itaca Jerez. It was an excellent hotel and only a short stroll to the centre of town.
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Inspired to visit Jerez?
Tempted to discover Sherry - There's no better place for it? But don't miss the cities historic architecture and wonderful food.
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