If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of sherry, you’re already on your way to discovering this Andalusian city. Sherry is actually an anglicisation of the city’s name, and in Europe the denomination is protected, so all sherry comes from this region of southern Spain. This region is also called the “Gold Triangle” for sherry wine and lies in between the cities of Puerto de Santa Maria, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and Jerez de la Frontera. But Jerez is more than just wine: it is flamenco, it is history, it is Andalusian horse culture. If any of that sounds appealing to you, read on: it may be time to look into hotels in Jerez de la Frontera!
Sherry culture in Jerez is a sight to behold. The city boasts some 20 sherry bodegas, many of which are open to the public. A local saying humbly holds it to be the “rey de los vinos”, or the king of wines. Be sure to venture beyond your hotel in Jerez de la Frontera and check out the local tabancos, sherry taverns that offer a convivial atmosphere regularly interspersed with flamenco performances.
Many Andalusian cities vie for the title of the home of flamenco – perhaps they all are. Then, Jerez’s claim does have some merit, with its two Roma quarters which have produced a number of talented flamenco artists. Several centres are dedicated to the art and put on exhibitions – though the best time to go is during the Festival de Jerez in late February or early March, when the city comes alive in a celebration of Flamenco. Flamenco fans best book their hotels in Jerez de la Frontera for the early Spring!
The architecture in Jerez shows its strong Islamic influences. The iconic fortress, Alcázar, is an elegant 11th century building that hosted the caliph of Seville during the Almohad period. On your visit, take in the centuries-old mosque and the tranquil gardens in the inner courtyard. Be sure to explore the old Baños Árabes (Arab baths), as well, before heading back to your hotel in Jerez de la Frontera.
Horseback riding is a passion in Andalucia, and Jerez, home to the famous Carthusian breed, is no exception. The city hosts the Feria del Caballo in late April or early May, featuring music and dance alongside equestrian competitions. It also hosts an annual horse race in the seaside town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda which dates back to 1845 and claims the King of Spain as a regular attendee.
If you are planning a trip along the coast south, the villages Barbate, Conil and Tarifa are definitely worth a stop. They are famous for excellent gastronomy and wonderful beaches.
That said, the most famous race in Jerez would have to be the Motorcycle Grand Prix, a global event held each year at the Circuito de Jerez just outside the city.
The flamenco and sherry of this unforgettable city are calling you – will you answer? Book a hotel in Jerez de la Frontera today with B&B hotels to discover this corner of Andalucia.