The quiet little village of Tarifa is spacious as it spans over Moorish walls. But in the mid-1980s, this quiet village rose for the wrong reasons – an abnormally high rate of suicide encouraged by the strong winds blowing around the town and its surrounding.

But it has turned into a highly preferred holiday resort which caused it to prosper and bloom as it became the best windsurfing spot in Europe. Windsurfing equipment is easily available for rent and sale in the sports shops along the town’s main street with many windsurfing competitions the whole year round. Hence, the town is developing quickly but it is still a pleasant place to visit or try windsurfing here.

Historical discoveries

There are many amazing historical sites that are worth exploring if you are not keen on windsurfing. The 15th century San Mateo church boasts a unique Baroque architectural front but a Gothic interior which opens daily for visitors’ viewing. The Castillo de Guzman represents the struggle of many battles for getting a foothold on Spain by its enemies. Tarifa’s renowned commander, Guzmán el Bueno, brilliantly defended the town during the 1292 Moorish siege, although with much tragedy and drama.

New attraction

Tarifa’s new and popular attraction is the spotting of whales and dolphins at the Strait of Gibraltar. Daily excursions are available from the town harbor. The price may be quite high but it offers another free trip if no sighting is made during the first trip. Advanced bookings are required from Whale Watch or FIRMM, which are non-profit organizations.

The tourist information centre or turismo is located at Paseo la Alameda central; it offers maps and other information on the town such as accommodation, which are plentiful in Tarifa except in the summer when huge crowds come in from everywhere for windsurfing.

Other attractions

Basic amenities are available in this quaint developing town such as bus station and supermarket. There are a lot of campsites for the young and the adventurous instead of hotel accommodation. Many visitors take advantage of the mountainous areas by exploring them on mountain bikes or horse rides. One can occupy the time with visits to the local ganaderías which are breeding ranches or get a real bull fight experience at one of the town’s famous toros bravos.

Gastronomy

There are plenty of restaurants and hotels which serve excellent cuisine in this town; some are more affordable than others. There are plenty of bars and bistros for those who would love a pint or two. The place is filled with plenty of windsurfers' hang-out spots at which locals love to gather and enjoy some tapas. You can also find some bars which provide internet facility to stay connected with the rest of the world over a pint of beer.

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