A large part of this week was spent just outside the town of Tarifa in Southern Spain. Tarifa is in fact the most southerly point of continental Europe. Our campsite which is right in the heart of the Parque Natural del Estrecho, has stunning views across the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco and the Rif Mountains. We hiked in the park, to a ridge that gave 360o views of this beautiful and varied landscape.
What was once a small medieval fishing village, Tarifa is now a Mecca for wind and kite surfers, due to both a strong easterly and westerly wind which funnels through the strait. It is at this point that the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. The coast is a popular spot for holidaymakers both local and international, drawn by its white sandy beaches and crystal clear seas. In the town of Tarifa, old world charm bumps up against modern consumerism. The narrow cobbled streets, sport many of the world’s leading brands in luxury goods as well as galleries displaying artisan crafts, right next to a local fish market.
It is also the gateway to North Africa with regular fast ferries making the 14km journey to and fro to the port of Tangier, Morocco. This short distance has also enticed many refugees and asylum seekers to attempt this treacherous crossing by any means available. The tragic results of which we see all too frequently in our newspapers and on our televisions.
We loved our stop here and suspect we will be back if only to make the sea crossing to Morocco at a future date.
What an interesting place. Was the high point you climbed to with the 360 degree view the rock of Gibraltar? Congrats to Christof on his new record!
Thanks Tim, Actually the high point we climbed was in the Parque Natural, right next to our campsite near Tarifa. We did visit Gibraltar overnight a few days later but didn’t climb the rock due to high winds and rain.
love the tiled mosaic fish market mural. Wish we could tile walls in Ireland!
The tiling fascinates me too Anne such an interesting art form.