FUN & LEISURE IN JEREZ

If you're a history buff or love stunning architecture, Jerez is the place for you. The city is famous for its long history and has a wealth of monuments. Nature lovers and adrenaline keeners will also find something to suit them. Are you more of a lazy type? Don't worry; there's nothing better than wandering the streets, sampling tapas and getting to know Spanish culture.

Jerez is more than just a MotoGP race. Come and see what not to miss on your trip. 

Right in Jerez is the stunning 18th-century baroque cathedral which boasts a remarkable combination of gothic and neoclassical elements. Inside you'll find a richly decorated interior steeped in history. Next to the cathedral, you can see the remains of the old Arab walls surrounding the Alcazar, a 12th-century Moorish fortress with a fascinating past.

The next stop in the historic centre of Jerez should be the Iglesia de San Miguel, one of the most important Gothic churches in the city. The Plaza de San Dionisio, with its Mudejar-style church, is also a beautiful setting.

As you continue your journey through the city, remember to stop at the Palacio del Marques de Bertemati. This impressive building features a striking Renaissance façade that you will be undoubtedly impressed by. Finally, visit the 15th-century Iglesia de San Juan de los Caballeros located next to two other churches and the Ponce de León Palace. You will not be disappointed!

Jerez is also an excellent destination for active travellers. Take a trip to the surrounding white towns in the mountains, also known as pueblos blancos. As you approach these towns, you'll be captivated by white houses glowing in the distance, perched on cliffs or nestled into the hills. The network of picturesque streets is breathtaking on foot, but the towns are best explored from a distance. The nearest pueblos blancos are Arcos de la Frontera (35km from Jerez) and Medina Sidonia (37km from Jerez).

Cádiz is about a 30-minute drive from Jerez. The city has been continuously inhabited for over 3000 years, making it one of the oldest European still inhabited cities. Walking through the old town, you will see evidence of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and North African Muslims who once ruled the area. Visit the 18th-century Nueva Cathedral, a landmark of the city, and see Cádiz from the top of its tower.

The Andalusian horse is a breed that has been part of Spanish history for over 500 years. These horses are renowned for their exceptional beauty, elegance and temperament. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez is dedicated to preserving this breed and its traditional horsemanship. Visitors can witness performances highlighting these magnificent animals' beauty and grace. The local museum houses a collection of antique carriages, costumes and equestrian artefacts, giving an insight into the rich history and cultural significance of the Andalusian horse.

The Doñana National Park, with its bird sanctuary, is worth a visit. The strategic location of the national park between two continents is the flyover, nesting and wintering place of more than 300 species of water and land birds from Europe and Africa. 

The beaches along the Costa de la Luz have fine sand perfect for relaxing. This immaculate area boasts hidden coves with clear turquoise waters, vast expanses of soft sand and trendy bars, making it a favourite with locals and tourists alike. The offshore wind and waves make it a popular spot for surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. Are you going to try it out?

Andalusia boasts an impressive range of golf resorts with many options for keen golfers. One of the most prominent resorts in Jerez is the extensive Sherry Golf Jerez, while the Chiclana de la Frontera area also offers several other greens to explore.

Andalusian sherry is a type of fortified wine produced in Andalusia for over 3000 years. The unique wine-making process and the perfect blend of ingredients give sherry its characteristic taste, aroma and colour. At the Wine Museum of Jerez, you will learn about the process of sherry production and its history. In fact, you'll see one of the famous local brands in front of your eyes on the circuit - the tower by the track is called Tio Pepe because it has been advertising this particular sherry for years. Check out our tips on where to eat and drink. 

Discover Flamenco! Flamenco is a vibrant and passionate art form that originated in Spanish Andalusia and is full of expressive movements and rhythmic beats. Jerez visitors can experience flamenco performances where professional dancers showcase their skills in a lively and captivating display of music and dance.