Discover the beach of Faro de Trafalgar in Barbate with Ruralidays, a virgin beach between the beach of Zahora and Caños de Meca. A top getaway destination.
Golden sand and crystal clear waters characterise the 3 km of the beach of Faro de Trafalgar. Located near the lighthouse that bears the same name, this beach is known to be one of the best beaches in Cadiz, even though it’s also among the most dangerous. In this post, you will find out everything you need to know about this precious spot. Pack your things because you are discovering the province of Cadiz.
Where is the beach of Faro de Trafalgar?
This beach lies between Caños de Meca and the beach of Zahora, facing the Atlantic Ocean. It belongs to the town of Barbate, in the province of Cadiz. The beach of Faro de Trafalgar is located on the right side of the lighthouse, as the left side is better known as the beach of Marisucia.
Features of the beach of Faro de Trafalgar
This beach, which is 2km long and 50mt wide, invites you to relax and unwind, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and fine golden sand.
However, don’t let the easy swell fool you, especially in summer, because, although it’s true that in summer the waters are usually tranquil, the undercurrent makes this beach one of the most dangerous in Spain.
The area is not urbanised, thus providing some breathtaking views and, in the farthest area from the lighthouse, the ideal spot for naturists to practice nudism in Andalucia.
Facilities and installations
The beach is divided into two areas: the beach of Los Bancos and the beach of La Aceitera. The beach of Los Bancos is the most dangerous part of the seashore. There are no surveillance posts, and there is a poster forbidding swimming. However, when the waters are tranquil, you can enjoy a dip: just remember to be careful, don’t move away from the shore and keep standing all the time.
The beach of La Aceitera, on the contrary, is a pleasant wide beach, considered as the best part of the shore of Faro. Although swimming here is safer, you should always be careful when getting into the water.
As this is a semi-virgin beach, there are no showers, no access for people with reduced mobility, and no lifeguard post.
Near the lighthouse is a small chiringuito, where you can eat something and buy a refreshing drink. And if you want to rejoice in the authentic Andalusian cuisine, mainly featuring fresh seafood, be sure to visit the restaurant Las Dunas, located at the beginning of the shore.
History of the beach of Faro de Trafalgar
This place is soaked in history. During Roman times, a temple dedicated to Jupiter was located where nowadays the lighthouse stands. In the 9th century, the Moors built a surveillance tower, whose rests can still be seen nowadays, near the lighthouse.
However, what marked a before and after in the history of the beach was the infamous Battle of Trafalgar. This battle put face to face the Spanish-French alliance (guided by Pierre Villeneuve and Federico Gravina) and the English fleet, whose captain was no less than Horatio Nelson, on October 21st, 1805.
The Lighthouse of Cabo Trafalgar
The 34-mt lighthouse was built in 1860, and it enlightened the bay for the first time on July 15th, 1862. You can reach the top thanks to a wooden path that connects the symbol of the beach with the seashore.
How to get to the beach of Faro de Trafalgar
To get to the beach of Faro de Trafalgar, you will have to drive, as no public transport takes you near it.
The A-2233 road takes you from Zahora to Camping Faro de Trafalgar, marked by the poster saying “Faro”. Once you pass by the camping, take the Carretera del Faro de Trafalgar, until you get to a parking lot, right near the beginning of the beach.
Your holiday home in Barbate – Caños de Meca
If you are looking for a quiet place to stay, Barbate offers you several options. From holiday homes where you can spend a relaxing family getaway to apartments near the beach of Faro de Trafalgar. Find your perfect accommodation in our selection of the best holiday homes in Barbate.
Remember that the beach of Faro de Trafalgar is a no-urbanised beach, without any professional surveillance service; therefore, always be careful, especially when there is an undercurrent. Once you have taken all the precautions, you will be able to enjoy this magnificent beach and the most mesmerising sunsets.
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