Europe's 'Windsurfing Capital' Is A Pretty Spanish Fishing Village Where The Atlantic And Mediterranean Meet

While it's typical to find water sports in many coastal destinations, there's a city in Spain that stands out for one in particular: windsurfing. Situated in the middle of the southern peninsula along the Strait of Gibraltar, and across from Moroccan coastal cities brimming with traditional food and markets, the charming fishing village of Tarifa is widely considered the windsurfing capital of Europe. And this has everything to do with its geographic position. Because the Strait is where the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean meet, there's a contrast in different air pressures. When air pressures from the two oceans collide, it creates a strong wind that allows those who enjoy water sports to make the most of it. With around 300 days of wind each year, it truly is the perfect place for windsurfers. 

Although gusts can reach high speeds in spring, it's actually one of the best times for beginners to visit and take a few lessons. Because Tarifa's tourism season doesn't peak until the summer, those learning to windsurf can enjoy fewer people on the beaches as they work with an instructor. Naturally, there are ample windsurfing schools around Tarifa. Two of the best include Rebels Tarifa Kiteschool and Tarifa Max, both noted for being great for beginners. Though the town features just under 7 miles of sand beaches, Valdevaqueros Beach is widely considered the best for windsurfing thanks to its expansive open waters. 

For those who don't want to hit the water, Tarifa is home to some excellent bird watching. Thanks to its proximity to Africa and the narrow Strait of Gibraltar, a beautiful crossing that's the most exciting day trip in Europe, migratory birds often fly through this area. And with hills that provide optimal perches for bird watchers, it's hard to beat springtime here. Around the month of March, one of the peak migratory months, you can see black storks, eagles, and spoonbills. 

Apart from birdwatching, the landscape around Tarifa, from the beaches to the hills, provides lots of opportunities for outdoor adventure on land. For those who like to keep moving, but don't want to hit the surf, hiking and biking are excellent options. Cycle around 7 miles from Tarifa to Valdevaqueros Beach to watch the windsurfers or bike up to 31 miles of trails in Los Alcornocales, Europe's largest cork oak forest, where you can relax in the shade. To see the landscape on foot, follow the Buddha trail through the cork forest or explore the Valdevaqueros dunes from the Casas de Porro trail.

Be sure to pack plenty of bathing suits — even if you don't windsurf. The beach is a major attraction here, and you'll likely want to soak up some sun. Those who want to hit the hills for hiking or birdwatching should pack a pair of hiking boots for adequate ankle support and to keep their feet comfortable while walking in the forest. Don't forget a pair of binoculars, either.

While you could fly into Tangier, Morocco, and cruise across the Strait of Gibraltar, you'll likely want to avoid two border control stops. Instead, fly into Seville, one of southern Spain's most vibrant cities that Rick Steves calls a "perpetual fiesta," roughly 130 miles north of Tarifa. From Seville Airport (SVQ), you can make your way to a train station and head south to the coast. The train trip should cost around $60-80 one-way and will take about 5 hours. To break up the trip, consider spending a few nights in Seville to explore this culturally rich city before traveling to Tarifa. Once you arrive in Tarifa, moving around the walkable city is easy, though you can also use scooters and taxis, as well.

As for booking a hotel room, La Residencia Puerto Hotel & Spa is a luxury option with airy rooms and stunning views of the marina. Hotel La Sacristía offers cozy rooms under its red-tiled roof. This romantic hotel features Andalusian-inspired flair, a lounge, and a plant-lined café. For those who want to stay right on the beach, book one of the nine rooms available at Cortijo El Pozuelo. Here, you'll find comfortable, yet minimalist rooms with common spaces such as an outdoor terrace and a kitchen. 

For a unique European vacation focused on windsurfing, Tarifa is hard to beat. While there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, the beach, sun, and unusual geography provide an experience to remember.