Holidays in Jerez, Andalucia, Spain

Jerez is built upon an old Moorish fortress that has been partially restored. In land area, it is the largest municipality in the area with a lot of its ground being used to grow fruit and to herd cattle and horses. Its strength now lies in the processing of the grape into fortified wines, world-famous, for globally exported products such as the estimable sherries; Domecq, Gonzalez Byass and Harveys.

Horses are of huge significance in Jerez, which is also home to the reputable Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art where performances of these noble hoofed animals take place every week during the summer. There are sixty stables, which enjoy regular tours, and practical use of dressage, tacking, and the blacksmith skills of shoeing these thoroughbreds. There is also equipment that is still used on the horses today that dates back to the 18th century.

The town centre is predominantly pedestrianised; palm trees linger exotically throughout the squares. There are many shops to whet your appetite and unsurprisingly it has crafts related to sherry making such as barrel making. It also has an excellent saddle shop that sells well-worked leather items. And it also sells items related to flamenco dancing, which is another favourite pastime of the Jerez townsfolk that they gladly share with their many visitors dancing into the early hours of the morning.

The golden beaches of Costa de la Luz start at approximately 9km away from Jerez. Victoria beach plays host, not only to sun worshipping bathers, but also a promenade that has many bars and restaurants that serve food from the tapas to haute cuisine. The Santa Maria del Mar stretches along ancient city walls near Osborne – another famous sherry producing area. Then there is the Cortadura, a wild beach but one that has been awarded seven prestigious blue flag awards. The average temperatures start from a relatively warm 10ºC in the coolest month of January to a sizzling 26ºC in August. Water sports are also provided at the coast with a game of golf readily available in and around the area of Jerez.

Jerez airport is only 5km away from the city so transfers will not be expensive. Shuttle services are frequent and there is always the cab to whisk you away to your final destination. However, if you can, rent a hire car – this will get you to most places in and around Jerez and it will be ready when you are. Shuttle services and car hire can be arranged in advance and often can be done at the same time as booking your flight tickets. Car rental desks are also located at the airport.

The final destination – there are many hotels ranging from the humble bed and breakfast to the more grandiose five-star. However, another popular option and more flexible approach is to rent your holiday home. These can be tailored around your preferences; from a traditional styled Andalucian home to a more modern luxurious villa stretching near the coastline.



The Author writes for Holiday Home Rentals who have a selection of Villas in Jerez and Apartments in Jerez which can be rented direct from their owners.