In reality a place for all seasons, the elegant city of Jerez de la Frontera is perhaps at its best from autumn to spring. Rich in that beautiful Costa de la Luz light, its mild temperatures and a natural setting surrounded by the vineyards of it famous sherry winemakers, Jerez is a noble country town rich in atmosphere and sights.
At less than an hour from Sotogrande, it is easily reached on a modern motorway that runs through the beautiful greenery of the Sierra de los Alcornocales natural park before reaching the sherry capital almost midway between Cádiz and Seville.
Historically important, Jerez is rich in monuments, museums and sights that date back to the Baroque, Moorish, Roman and indeed pre-Roman eras. Cathedrals, sherry making ‘bodegas’, palatial buildings, fortresses and grand country estates are among the classical attractions of Jerez, along with a unique clock and winemaking museum, stud farms, stylish shopping streets, grand cafés and a rich culinary tradition that takes in tapas, modern gastro cuisine, traditional eateries and authentic sherry bars.
The equestrian and winemaking traditions may lend Jerez an aristocratic air, but this refined city with its many gentle pleasures is also one of the most important centres of flamenco. Earthy and intense, this is a tradition that resonates with another side of this diverse Andalusian city – popular with the gypsy and other ‘barrios’ of Jerez yet also capable of entrancing visitors from the other side of the world.
From the pomp of the annual ‘Feria del Caballo’ horse fair to the fiery passion of flamenco, this is a city that offers a wide range of Andalusian experiences in one compact area – suitable either as a pleasant daytrip from Sotogrande or a short sojourn that allows you to sample the hospitality of a range of luxury hotels, country establishments or boutique hotels. Whichever you choose, Jerez is sure to make a lasting impression.
By Jackie Cruz - Manifesto ·