Costa de la Luz Holidays

Costa de la Luz holidays introduce you to stripped-back Spain. We’re on about sunflower fields, bleached-white towns and sunbather-free beaches.

Secret sun

The Costa de la Luz starts at Spain’s tip and runs all the way to the Portuguese border. Basically, find the Costa del Sol on a map, then skirt over to the opposite coast. Saying that, it’s a totally different kettle of fish. There’s a big chunk of coastline to brag about, but this place is savvy – it shuns the limelight to keep things nice and quiet.

Local hangout

There’s nothing new about this place, but the locals have been keeping it to themselves. This means it’s chock-a-block with Spanish flavours. For starters, you’ve got Moorish cities like Jerez de la Frontera, dinky bodegas and beaches with chiringuitos – baby-sized tapas bars serving stuff like grilled fish. High-rise hotels are a no-no here, and even some of the beaches are sunbed-less.

Surf’s up

Empty stretches of sand come thick and fast in this Andalusian gem. But if you want one with top credentials, try the Blue Flag beauty near Chiclana de la Frontera. Or head north to Isla Canela. Kitesurfing, windsurfing, plain ol’ surfing – you name it, this place does it. And it’s a good-looking golden sands type, too. Plus, it bumps up next to a fishing village with a little marina and a shopping centre.