Puerto Real is a captivating destination in Cadiz that offers a blend of scenic beauty, vibrant local life, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring charming streets and historical landmarks to indulging in the town's renowned seafood dishes. With its lively festivals and convenient location, Puerto Real is an ideal spot to discover while you are in Andalusia.
Renting a car in Malaga allows you to easily reach Puerto Real and discover its unique attractions, including its rich history, tourist sites, local gastronomy, and festive events.
Puerto Real was established as a population centre in 1483 by the Catholic Monarchs, who sought to create a strategic port for the kingdom on the Atlantic coast. Initially part of Jerez, the town gained independence with the construction of its own town hall.
Throughout its history, Puerto Real has faced numerous challenges, including the War of Independence, during which the Castle of St. Louis ultimately fell to French forces.
The town's industrial development was significantly hindered by the Spanish Civil War. However, following the end of the dictatorship, Puerto Real experienced a resurgence in industry and became one of the first municipalities in the region to advocate for Andalusian autonomy.
Puerto Real offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the must-visit sites is the Castillo de San Luis, which, although damaged during the battle known as "the hundred thousand children of St. Louis," remains a significant historical landmark. (map)
Other notable places to visit include:
Another major attraction of the town is its cuisine, which could be considered representative of the Bay of Cadiz, featuring dishes made with products from both the countryside and the sea.
Puerto Real is also known for its vibrant local fairs and festivals, which offer a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage and traditions.
If you have rented a car in Malaga, you have two main routes to choose from to reach Puerto Real. You can either take the scenic coastal route or the shorter inland route through the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. The inland route takes you through Alcala de los Azules and Paterna, skirting Medina-Sidonia towards Jerez, until you reach the junction indicating the direction to Puerto Real.
We have marked this route on the map as it is the most direct way to get to Puerto Real from Malaga.
Don't forget to check our car hire prices in Malaga and transfers from Malaga to Cadiz.