7 places of interest in Costa de la Luz: old towns and beautiful beaches

The Costa de la Luz is the coastal region stretching from the southern city of Tarifa to the border of Portugal across the provinces of Cadiz and Huelva. The "Coast of Light" owes its name to the always radiant sun reflected by the blue water and white beaches. If you are planning your holiday to Spain and don't know where yet, travelling to the Costa de la Luz for its beautiful sights and warmth is definitely a good idea. It is also a lot quieter and thus more authentic than, for example, the Costa del Sol. With a holiday home on the Costa de la Luz you have all the best of Spain in your surroundings. Moreover, the best sights on the Costa de la Luz give you a good impression of the identity of Spain, because the Andalusian culture has influenced the whole country. 

1. Enjoying Spanish delicacies

Did you know that many typical Spanish delicacies and cultural features used to originate only in the south of Spain or Andalusia? Today, we consider sherry, flamenco, the Spanish thoroughbred and paella to be typical specialities of Spain, but the Costa de la Luz is their place of origin. Want to enjoy all the beauty and delicious delicacies the region has to offer? Nothing better than having a Spanish aperitif while the paella is simmering in your own holiday home in the Costa de la Luz.

2. Doñana National Park

The National Park Doñana or in Spanish Parque Nacional de Doñana used to be the hunting ground of the Dukes of Medina Sidonia, a former important duchy in the province of Cadiz. This explains why the area is still called Coto Doñana, which translates to 'hunting ground of Doña Ana', after one of the wives of an important duke. Because it has remained demarcated throughout history, there are no roads in the National Park. Some people live there, but they live according to the laws of nature and 'off the grid'. Coto Doñana thus forms a natural beacon between the provinces of Huelva and Seville and attracts millions of migratory birds from all over Europe every year. Lynxes and wild boars also find a safe haven here. Nature lovers seek out this attraction on the Costa de la Luz for bird watching and tranquillity. 

3. Huelva

Huelva is a small coastal city near the Portuguese border. It used to be an important port where explorers left and came back home. Huelva's history is commemorated in various places of interest and in the provincial museum, which traces its history back to the foundation of Huelva in 1000 B.C. Important sights in Huelva include the cathedral and various monuments commemorating the discovery of "Las Americas" by Christopher Columbus. Huelva's beautiful beaches are beginning to gain acclaim, but the city is still a wonderful destination if you want to find peace and quiet.

4. Cadiz

Cadiz is, just like Huelva, a city full of history and was founded by the Phoenicians around 1100 B.C. The old Roman theatre testifies to what an important city Cadiz was in the Roman Empire. In the 18th century, Cadiz, due to its favourable location, became the trade centre of choice in the New World, which means that cultural influences are also very noticeable here. The small streets, beautiful squares in the city centre, the characteristic boulevard and the hospitable Gaditanos, the inhabitants, have caused Cadiz to be called the "city that smiles". All sights in Cadiz can be visited within walking distance of each other because the old centre is located on a peninsula. Apart from the popular beach and the beautiful cathedral, the main attractions in Cadiz are the Torre Tavira, one of the typical watchtowers that served to monitor the arrival of ships from America, Castillo de san Sebastián and Castillo de santa Catalina. The Teatro Romano is the largest Roman theatre in the world after the ancient theatre in Pompeii and is definitely worth a visit.

5. Benalup

The small municipality of Benalup-Casas Viejas is one of the most beautiful whitewashed villages in Andalusia. Benalup is situated quite centrally in the Costa de la Luz, which makes it a lovely place to stay. Enjoy in your holiday home in Benalup all the best of the Costa de la Luz. You are just a stone's throw away from the lively Barbate, Alemanes and Vejer. Benalup is the ideal starting point from your holiday home in Costa de la Luz to visit cosy markets, to plan a day at the beach or to make a day trip full of culture to the old cities. At Cap we already have some gems on offer. How about great outdoor living with an outdoor kitchen and a beautiful view of a natural valley? In the holiday house with pool El Laguna in Benalup your holiday home in Costa de la Luz will be perfect. Las Adelfas is another cosy holiday home with pool in Benalup with a blissfully private garden. Las Mimosas is a spacious luxury holiday home with room for the whole family. The view reaches so far that you can even catch a glimpse of Morocco! In La Luz, a spacious holiday home rich in terraces, you can also enjoy how beautiful the views can be in the Costa de la Luz.

6. Tarifa

Tarifa is located at the southernmost tip of Spain and this creates a unique atmosphere. About 6 km from the old town centre is Mirador del Estrecho, a high vantage point from which you have a breathtaking view of the coast of Africa. In the past, this viewpoint and the high rocks you can see across the water were called the Pillars of Hercules. Because the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean here, Tarifa is an excellent place for water sports: the high waves, blissful warm climate and strong winds attract windsurfers, kite surfers and more from all over. Another unique attraction in Tarifa, thanks to its ocean location, is whale and dolphin watching on a boat trip. Tip: Book your excursion with one of the local non-profit organisations that protect the beautiful animals so their habitat is not disturbed. This is a real highlight among the attractions on the Costa de la Luz. 

7. Baelo Claudia

Finally, we chose one of the most impressive sights of the Costa de la Luz. At 22 km from Tarifa at the bay of Bolonia lies Baelo Claudia, an old Roman city founded about 2000 years ago. The original fishing village was a prosperous town until several earthquakes and a tidal wave caused the city to be abandoned in the 6th century. You can see the impressive remains of the Basilica, the forum, the city walls, three aqueducts, the theatre, temples and even an ancient factory! There is also a museum on the site where you can learn all about how life used to be here. Admission to the museum is free for EU residents. If you make a day trip of your visit to Baelo Claudia, make sure you take some time to rest at the beach of Bolonia, which is often mentioned as one of the most beautiful beaches of the Costa de la Luz or even of Spain.