Vejer de la Frontera, perched on a hilltop in the province of Cadiz, is a charming town known for its well-preserved old walled city centre. Located just 8 km from the coast, it offers breathtaking views and a rich historical backdrop. The tourist office, conveniently situated at the town's entrance near the main parking lot, is an excellent starting point for your visit (map). We recommend leaving your car here to explore the town on foot.
The peak tourist season in Vejer spans from June 15 to October 15, when the town is bustling with visitors enjoying its scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
Vejer de la Frontera boasts a long and storied history. Inhabited since prehistoric times, the town's fortifications date back to the Bronze Age. Before the Roman conquest, the area was known as Besaro and featured a seaport where modern-day Barbate is located.
Vejer was under Arab rule for nearly six centuries, during which it was known as Besher. The Muslims left an indelible mark on the town, contributing significantly to its cultural legacy. Visitors can still see remnants of the walls surrounding the old town and the characteristic Arabic street layout that is so prevalent in Andalusia.
In 1264, Vejer was conquered by the Christians and subsequently taken over by Guzman El Bueno, a Muslim who converted to Christianity. His descendants, the Dukes of Medina Sidonia, played a significant role in the town's history.
Vejer is home to numerous historical sites that showcase its rich heritage. Here are some must-visit locations:
Vejer de la Frontera is not only rich in history but also offers stunning natural surroundings, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and is close to natural parks that offer numerous hiking opportunities.
If you fancy a walk in Vejer while enjoying nature, we recommend visiting the beach Playa de Mangueta, a protected area of natural beauty.
One of the main features and part of the special appeal of Vejer de la Frontera are within the walled town its typical houses built around a neighbouring yard. From the tourist office there are available routes on which you can get to know the history and the yards of many of these homes.
Vejer de la Frontera, with its 8 kilometres of coastline, is a true gem for tourists. If you plan to visit, here are some suggestions to make the most of your trip:
You cannot leave without trying the local delicacies such as Gazpacho and Lomo en Manteca, which are staples of Vejer’s cuisine.
Depending on when you visit, you might experience some of its vibrant festivals:
Traveling to Vejer from Malaga is straightforward and scenic. Here’s the best route to take:
Follow the Mediterranean motorway (A-7) through Marbella and Manilva towards Gibraltar. From there, you can either take a shortcut or continue towards Tarifa, passing through Barbate and Zahara before reaching Vejer.
If you need a rental car in Malaga or want to check the price of a private transfer to Cadiz, don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our website.
Below is the recommended route by road: