Jerez

Located in a small corner of Andalucia in Southern Spain, Jerez De La Frontera is the centre of world Sherry production - in fact, the very name "Sherry" comes from an adaptation of the name. Along with El Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlúcar de Barrameda, it forms the Sherry triangle - only wines made in this area are entitled to be called Sherry.

Jerez has a complex heritage that has absorbed the culture of the various powers that have occupied the city over the years, from the Carthiginians to the Romans, Vandals to the Moors, as well as the merchants from all over Europe that have fought to have a foothold in this lucrative region.

This rich and varied history is still very much in evidence in the architecture of the town from the Moorish designs of the 12th century Alcázar and the gothic style of the imposing 18th century Catedral del Salvador.

Moorish designs of the 12th century Alcázar and the gothic style of the imposing 18th century Catedral del Salvador. Jerez also has one of the biggest gypsy populations in the region and has consequently become an important international centre for flamenco.

Sherry plays an important part in the cultural life of the city and any visit to Jerez and the surrounding area should involve a trip to at least one bodega and probably several tapas bars - see our recommendations for Eating and Drinking

The town is the centre of a host of colourful events throughout the year from the International Flamenco Festival in February/March to the wine harvest celebrations in September. It's also home to the legendary dancing horses of the Royal Riding School.

Jerez is also a thoroughly modern region with excellent shopping, beautiful beaches and the Donana National Park - one of Europe's biggest and most diverse nature reserves.

Thanks to the availability of cheap flights, travel to Jerez has never been easier and with 300 days of sunshine a year it's always a good time to go.

Culture

Vivacious, passionate and enthralling : A visit to Jerez is a chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture that celebrates the region's proud traditions in a thoroughly contemporary way. Read more about the flamenco, festivals and - of course - the ever-present sherry.

Eating

Prepare for a gastronomic onslaught: Whether you're snacking at one of the many highly rated Tapas bars or indulging in a feast at restaurants which range from robustly traditional to cutting edge, it's almost impossible to get a bad meal in Jerez.