Escape to the Costa de la Luz for some winter sunshine

Heading south for some winter sun is good for the soul and the Costa de la Luz, Spain’s ‘Coast of Light’, is the perfect destination for recharging your batteries after a hectic Christmas period.

The Costa de la Luz tends to be quieter than many other parts of Spanish coastline. Its beaches are wider, with little development. Rocky coves invite exploration and the towns are steeped in history. In winter, the evenings can get a little chilly and a jacket may need to be worn, but during the day the warmth of the sun will invigorate you. This time of year, is ideal for walking or even hiring a bike to explore what the Costa de la Luz has to offer.

Golf enthusiasts will be in their element, being able to play in comfortable conditions, without getting too hot or cold. In fact, the Costa de la Luz is ideal for sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers, where the Atlantic rollers entice surfers from all over the world. Tarifa is the windsurfing capital of Europe, with the beaches of Playa Los Lances and Playa Valdevaqueros attracting surfers from near and far.

The area around Cadiz is an ideal spot from which to venture out and explore the region. The ancient port boasts a castle, an incredible cathedral, a long promenade and plenty of enticing cafés dotted around its leafy squares.

In the evening seek out a bar or club were genuine intense flamenco music is being played, you will not forget the experience in a hurry. Nearby is Puerto Santa Maria, from where Columbus set sail.

Winter is also a good time to explore the Donana National Park. These wetlands are full of many species of birds, which can be seen stretching along the banks of the Guadalquivir estuary. Walking in the hills of the Alcornocales Natural Park is also an invigorating experience on the Costa de la Luz. As is travelling inland and visiting some of the many hilltop towns such as Arcos de la Frontera.

The Costa de la Luz is also renowned for its quality restaurants. Seafood is abundant here, most of which is caught fresh that day.

Escape the winter drudgery of the UK and invigorate the mind and soul by heading to the sunnier climes of the Costa de Luz.