White-washed homes and buildings. Long, winding cobble streets. A colorful plaza. Theses are just a few of the draws visit Vejer de la Frontera in Southern Spain. As you walk around you feel almost as if you’ve stepped off into a Greek island town, just without the ocean.
Located in the province of Cádiz, Andalucia this town boasts a population of around 12,000 and a rich history, complete with Moorish buildings and castle that the city has built itself around. The town can easily be explored in a day- but bring your walking shoes, as most of the streets don’t allow for cars of any kind so your day-long tour will be on foot. Make sure you get a good breakfast in you.
Arches of Vejer
Calles Estrechas (Long Narrow Streets)
Casa del Mayorazgo
Walk through two courtyards full of potted gardens of blooming flowers and wind your way up to the Tower of the Mayorazgo for fantastic views of the plaza and pueblo (first photo).
Plaza de España
Now colloquially called Plaza de los Pescaítos (Little Fish plaza) after the frog fountain that used to have fish in it. A great plaza from which to sit and enjoy the late afternoon heat- there are plenty of little shops and restaurants where you can get a nice Tinto de Verano or Sangria to sip.
Within the circle of the plaza you will find El Jardin del Califa, a Michelin recommended restaurant offering Morrocan and Middle Eastern Fare. You have to pass through the hotel and descend into what feels like a never-end stairwell to a basement (don’t miss the wine cellar!), until you emerge on the other side of the hill and a bright patio area.
I recommend going, if not for the food, then for the awe of the old stone structure that it sits within.
There are many small cafes and restaurants throughout town, so I recommend checking out a few- a “quick” tapa and drink at each one is a great way to experience the culture and enjoy your surroundings- just try not to make it too quick.
White Washed Walls
The brilliant whites of the walls in Vejer stand out in my mind as the highlight of the city. You all know how much I love a good wall photo so I decided to do a separate post on my love of just the walls of Vejer.
Other sights worth seeing:
Windmills of St. Michael
Roman Aqueduct of St. Lucia
