Tangier & the North

Tangier is situated on the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean and Atlantic converge, and for many travelers from Spain, it is the gateway to Morocco. From 1923 to 1956, the city was an international zone, attracting writers and artists. Today, the Al Boraq connects Tangier with Casablanca in just over two hours.

Tarifa, situated at the southernmost point of mainland Europe, is a hub for wind and water sports on the Strait of Gibraltar. The Old Town offers narrow streets and the Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno, a Moorish-era castle. At Playa de Los Lances, kite and windsurfers shape the relaxed, international atmosphere. On a clear day, you can gaze across to the African coast, and whale and dolphin watching tours are also popular. You'll find fresh seafood in the Old Town's tapas bars. You'll enjoy mild weather, especially in spring and autumn.

Asilah is located 31 kilometers south of Tangier on the Atlantic coast. The Portuguese conquered the town in 1471 and built the walls that still enclose the whitewashed medina today. Since 1978, the Kulturmoussem has transformed the old town into a gallery every year, with artists repainting the house walls.

Tétouan is located at the foot of the Rif Mountains, approximately 60 kilometres southeast of Tangier. Andalusian refugees rebuilt the city at the end of the 15th century; its whitewashed medina, which earned the city the nickname "White Dove," has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. From 1913 to 1956, Tétouan was the capital of the Spanish Protectorate.

The white village of Vejer de la Frontera lies on a hill near the Costa de la Luz with views to the Strait of Gibraltar. Winding, flower-adorned streets, the well-preserved town wall with gates such as the Puerta de Sancho IV, the Plaza de España with its fountain of Sevillian tiles, and viewpoints like the Mirador de la Cobijada characterize the place.