The prime location of Sanlúcar de Barrameda delivers not only breathtaking scenery but also many historical sites and attractive beaches.  Located across from the Parque Natural del Entorno de Doñana and at the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, the area is prime for nature lovers.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda offers many exciting options for tourists of all ages.  History buffs and those interested in architecture will delight in the city’s historical monuments.  Beach goers will enjoy the pristine sandy beaches.  Nature lovers will find themselves thrilled by the neighbouring Parque Natural del Entorno de Doñana.  There is much to see and do, so plan to spend at least three days in the area.

Not much is known about Sanlúcar de Barrameda before the 5th century.  A temple devoted to the Phoenician goddess of love suggests Phoenicians established some of the area’s culture, but historians are not certain.

In the 8th century, the Moors entered the village and erected the Castle of the Seven Towers in hopes of defending their home from Normans and Vikings.  When the Christians took the town over, it became a major port and played a huge part in the trade between Spain and Christopher Columbus’s newly discovered Americas.  In fact, both Magellan and Juan Sebastián Elcano departed from Sanlúcar de Barrameda’s port when they voyaged around the world.

Unfortunately, the 17th century found Sanlúcar de Barrameda at odds with the “House of Hiring,” the branch controlling American commerce, and they lost their standing.  Trading routes were handed to Cadíz and Sanlúcar suffered greatly.

Nothing happened until the latter years of the 18h century when there was a push to reestablish Sanlúcar de Barrameda into a thriving coastal community.  For a short time, the city gained status as the capital city of Cadíz, but then lost it shortly after.  Another century passed before aristocrats discovered the area’s beauty and turned it into the location of many of their summer homes.

From this point forward, Sanlúcar de Barrameda became a popular travel destination and excellent location for those looking for employment in the fishing and agricultural trades.

For beach lovers, there are three beaches in Sanlúcar de Barrameda.  The beaches are all easy accessible and offer clean golden sand.  Bajo de Guía, La Calzada, and La Jara are all free to the public.

There are close to one dozen churches within Sanlúcar de Barrameda.  Each church offers impressive architectural features, so if you have time try to view them all.  Reconstructed from the remains of a 12th century mosque in the 14th century, Iglesia Mayor de la Nuestra Señora de la Oliva is one of the area’s finest historical churches.

The city also offers guided tours of some of the area’s finest historical buildings.  Palacio de los Duques de Medina Sidonia and Palacio de los Infantes de Orleans y Borbón offer guided tours of the impressive structures.

Museum of Manzanilla offers an impressive look into the history and culture of Sanlúcar de Barrameda.  This is a must-see for any visitor to the area.

Festivals are part of the Sanluqueños way of life.  If you can, make sure you attend October’s tapas fair.  The only things you will do during this festival are eating and drinking.  This is an excellent way to sample all of the different local dishes and get a true feel for the area’s fine bounty of seafood, meats, fruits, and vegetables.

In August, one of the area beaches is closed off and turned into a day of horseracing.  This impressive activity should not be missed.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda is one of the third largest sherry producing cities.  Manzanilla is a specialty dry sherry made only in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, so that is the area’s biggest contributor to the local economy.  Many area residents work in the grape fields and producing this classy wine.  Tours of area Bodegas occur daily with free samples at the end of your visit.

Fishing is Sanlúcar’s other key industry.  Sanlúcar prawns (king prawns) are only found in the area.  Seafood brings in plenty of necessary revenue on a yearly basis.

Famous for their langoustines (giant prawns), Sanluqueños have some of the most amazing culinary creations in the world.  Seafood is caught in the waters and then is cooked immediately. This creates impressive dishes full of flavour and bursting with freshness.  Mixed with the locally made Manzanilla sherry, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, the culinary delights abound in Sanlúcar de Barrameda.

One local restaurant, Los Corrales, offers an exquisite skate casserole.  For dessert, do not miss the house specialty, a version of crème caramel that is denser and creamier than expected.

Casa Bigote is one of the areas best tapas bars.  The establishment offers a full menu, if you are still hungry after stopping at the tapas bar where huge varieties of seafood dishes are served. Stacks of locally made cured ham are found behind the bar waiting for hungry patrons.

A huge selection of tapas bars, Flamenco clubs, and outdoor terraces await the active crowd.  You can sample the local fare at any number of tapas bars where the tapas selections vary daily and cost very little, or is occasionally free with an alcoholic beverage.  The Flamenco clubs offer energetic music and incredible displays of dancing by trained Flamenco dancers.  Flamenco clubs should not be missed!  Finally, there are many bars with outdoor courtyards or patios where you could chat with the locals as you sample the local wines, sherries, and beers.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda is a lovely city with much to do and see.  The area’s culinary specialties will appeal to just about anyone and the dazzling scenery almost guarantees you will have a great time!

 

With the charm of the locals and bustling activities, Sanlúcar needs to be added to your itinerary!  Visit the city today and you will find you never want to leave.