Vejer de la Frontera travel information and video

Holiday information, facts, photos and video about Vejer de la Frontera

Vejer de la Frontera

 If you’re exploring the coastline and villages along N340 coast road, you’d be wise to take time out for a visit to Vejer. This classic white hilltop town is well worth a visit. Situated 10 kilometres inland, perched high above the steep gorge of the River Barbate, Vejer is virtually unknown by foreign tourists. 

About town
The stunning castellated town is a magical place to explore, its quiet cobbled streets meandering through a charming jumble of secret corners, hidden patios and delightful houses. Great care has been taken to preserve this beautiful town.

Hidden behind ancient walls is a magnificent
church, and in general visitors will barely find a hint of plastic or a trace of the 20th Century.

The town square, shaded by vast palm trees, has a wonderful old fountain with traditional ceramic Andalusian frogs which spout water high into the air, thus forming a fountain. 

The recently restored 17th Century Franciscan Convent Hospederia de Convento San Francisco, now a hotel restaurant, is also worth a visit. The
town has been officially declared a Historical Artistical Monument of National importance. 


Attractions
The Moorish Castle is hidden in the old quarter. A classic 11th century arch leads into a courtyard.
During the summer school holidays the local scouts and guides will show you around the ramparts. 

The Church of El Divino Salvador - like many was built on the site of an old Mosque. The front of the main aisle is Visigothic while the reminder is Mudejar. 

The Santuario de Nuestra Senora de la Oliva is a local chapel which houses a 16th century carved image of the Virgin Mary. 

The Plaza de España is a meeting place with numerous cafes and bars around the outside. In the centre there’s an ornate ceramic fountain
featuring 4 frogs. The town hall is located in the square and a notable feature is the facade of the fabled Casa de la Inquisición (no. 12 & 13).


Places to visit
Vejer is the point many travelers leave the N340 heading North to take the old coast road via Barbate, Cabo Trafalgar, Caños de Meca, Conil de la Frontera 

Cuisine
The Arab presence made a lasting impact on the
cuisine of southern Spain.  Rice, lemons, oranges, olives and vines were introduced, as well as many new vegetables and spices. 

Typical today are barbecued meats, sauces
flavoured with cumin or saffron and sweets made from crushed almonds.  Tomatoes and peppers are much used. 

The region is famous for its grilled fish, especially sardines, deep-fried calamares (squid) and fish baked in salt.  Quality ham and pork are used widely in sausages.  Tapas were invented in
Andalusia and a wide variety of them is still served throughout the region.  Some of the best jamon Serrano (cured ham) comes from the mountains of Andalusia, in particular from Jabugo.


Climate
The climate in Vejer de la Frontera is predominantly Mediterranean, with generally hot and dry summers and mild winters.  The area is considered a year round destination.