Escape | Exploring Southern SpAIN, Vejer de la Frontera + WHere to Stay & eat
Today we are escaping Vejer de la Frontera a charming town perched on a hill in the Andalucia region of southern Spain. Throughout the region there are many of these villages, also referred to as 'White Towns' that offer an authentic experience, because they are not on the typical tourist path. There are a few to choose from including Vejer, which offers a few hotels, restaurants and the remains of a beautiful castle perched on top of the hill. I personally love Europe for quite a few reasons but one is the crumbled remains of buildings that stood from long ago. This particular structure is overgrown with foliage like wild poppies and palm trees. Vejer is divided into two parts, the old and the new town. I recommend you stay in the old town - it is so charming with winding roads that are best walked, but there is a guarantee you will get lost a few times. The main square, Plaza de España has quite few cafes, while the town further up has more of a neighborhood feel. Vejer is a magical place to stay for a night on your way to explore the rest of the region. Here is guide on where to stay and of course, where to eat!
The overgrown foliage inside of the castle structure
A quiet corner in town
The narrow walkway on top of the castle
The geranium-filled alley behind La Casa del Califa
Where to Stay | La Casa del Califa, Vejer de la frontera
La Casa Del Califa | Plaza de España, 16
The history of how the hotel evolved is quite fascinating. James Stuart, originally from Scotland, moved to Vejer in 1988 and started an outdoor sports company - h lived in part of the building, before it was converted. He saw the appeal and potential in the town, with the philosophy of ‘if you build it he will come’. After his first company was established, he began welcoming travelers in 2001, which has since expanded to include unique suites and rooms and a restaurant with a Michelin recommended wine cellar. Like anything in Spain, you build and restore around history - some of the parts of the grounds date back to 711 AD. Your stay will leave you relaxed and smitten with the white-capped village. If time allows, make it your home base, as you discover the surrounding areas.
WHERE TO EAT
Corredera 55 | Calle de la Corredera, 55
The restaurant to savor a meal at sunset. Situated by the entrance to the old town, dining here gives you a prime location to watch the sun cast spectacular shades of orange and pink over the hills silhouetted with windmills. Each dish on the menu is inspired by local cuisine and prepared with ingredients that have been harvested nearby.
El Jardin Del Califa | Plaza de España,16
Vejer is a stone’s throw away from Africa, which means authentic Moroccan food is within your reach, without having to make the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can experience a delicious array of mouthwatering dishes, from a variety of mezze platters to a flavorful chicken tagine with Damascus lemons and local olives. For lunch or dinner, this is an ideal spot to enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by an original Roman wall dating back to the 10th century.
El Jardin Del Califa where you can dine around a Roman wall from the 10th century
The night view while dining al fresco at Corredera 55
All photography by Alison