Standing 17 metres above sea level, Chiclana de la Frontera contains many salt marshes and pine groves. Chiclana de la Frontera spreads tourists out over two areas - the mainland and Sancti-Petri Island that is located right off the coast of Chiclana de la Frontera. Sancti-Petri is home to a Phoenician temple, believed to have been a shrine created for Hercules. Daily ferries bring tourists from Chicana de la Frontera to Sancti-Petri.

 

This does not mean that tourists ignore Chiclana de la Frontera; Chiclana still gets plenty of traffic. The close proximity to Sancti-Petri, Costa del Sol, and Cadíz makes it a popular spot.

There is significant evidence linking Chiclana de la Frontera to Carthaginian, Phoenician, and Roman civilizations. Once an area separating the Christian and Moorish lands, Chiclana never truly expanded until major trade routes between Cadíz and America popped up. In the 1970’s, Chiclana de la Frontera began its slow ascent to popularity thanks to the sunny days and gorgeous beaches. The area is still growing. With a little over 55,000 full-time residents, there is still plenty of room for growth.

Balneario Fuente Amarga is a gorgeous 19th century spa. The spa has been in operation for over 200 years and the spa services - hydro spas, mineral baths, and massages—all are touted as remedies to acne, rheumatism, arthritis, psoriasis, and more. While relaxing in the many soothing tubs, enjoy the impressive architecture.

 

La Barrosa Beach is an impressive eight kilometres long. It is a popular location for snorkeling and wind surfing. Fishermen love the area due to the abundant fish populations in the warm waters. La Barrosa is a great place to kick back and relax on a sunny day.

 

Four historic churches all deserve a visit. The amazing architecture represents the cultures that have all had a hand in shaping the area. Be sure to visit Ermita de Santa Ana, built in the 18th century and famed for its impressive cupola. Iglesia de Jésus Nazareno was built during the 17th century. Iglesia del Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz contains many architectural styles from the 16th to 18th centuries. Finally, Iglesia de San Telmo was built in the 18th century.

 

Chiclana de la Frontera is home to an incredible porcelain doll manufacturer. Founded in 1928, Marín Muñecas offers tours of their company and houses their famed doll museum that gives a detailed history of their company and doll products.

 

The Sancti-Petri Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course rumoured to have been designed by famed golfer Severiano Ballestero. Directly across the water from Sancti-Petri Island, this golf course is a favourite of locals and tourists alike.

 

On Sancti-Petri Island, tourists can view the remains of the Phoenician Temple, which were turned into an 18th century castle, Castillo de Sancti-Petri. In addition, Sancti-Petri houses an impressive lighthouse that is open to visitors in the summer months.

 

Every June, tourists flock to the town for the San Antonio Festival. A combination of Flamenco traditions and religious activities, the San Antonio Festival has become one of Spain’s top events.

Once a hot spot for wine production, Chiclana has strayed from creating many of the area’s top wines and Sherries. Though vineyards do remain, and some wines are still produced, the area has turned more towards seafood and tourism. 

 

Agriculture plays an important part in Chiclana de la Frontera’s industry. Many grains and vegetables are grown in the rich soil.

Chiclana offers something for everyone. Restaurant selections vary greatly. With a balanced mixture of Chinese, Spanish, Mexican, and Italian restaurants in the town, patrons will not have to eat the same fare twice.

 

Area specialties include Butifarras, a beef and bacon sausage that is nicely flavored with region Sherry. Also, do not miss Longanizas, a pork sausage flavoured with fennel.

Chiclana de la Frontera is a quiet town that does not boast large, popular dance clubs. There is plenty to do in the evenings, but noisy dance clubs is not among the array of activities.

 

La Laja is a small bar located on La Barrosa. La Laja is a tourist favourite and is open seven days a week from 4.00 pm until late.

 

Another La Barrosa bar, El Lager, has a large outdoor terrace. This is a favourite spot for enjoying ocean sunsets while sipping on icy beer.

 

The Bongo Bar is located on Sancti-Petri Island. The bar serves amazing seafood dishes and delicious wines, beers, and other alcoholic specialties.

 

Utopia offers area music and a wide array of beverages. Not quite as big with the tourists, Utopia is a nice spot to relax and unwind after a long day.

 

For something a little rowdier, try Moreno Bar where karaoke is popular with the younger crowd. Moreno Bar is open all week.