This is the first post in a 7-part series about our Spain adventure! We were fortunate to be traveling with our friends Brigid & Tom in this general area of Andalusia. Cádiz was a port stop on a multi-country cruise.
Spain Road Trip Overview
Cádiz to Jerez del la Frontera
Cádiz was the first city we stopped in on our three-week Spain adventure. We spent the early part of the morning traveling inland to Jerez de la Frontera, a city known for its sherry, flamenco, and Moorish history. It was the perfect beginning to a day that would blend culture, food, and seaside charm.
Outside the Alcázar of Jerez de la Frontera
Our morning began at the Alcázar, the 12th century Moorish fortress that once guarded Jerez. Its square towers and saw-toothed walls rise above palm trees and gardens, a reminder of the city’s Islamic past. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it dominates the city and its surrounding. It served mainly as a defensive structure but also served a residential purpose. The stone glows golden in the Andalusian sun, and from the ramparts you can glimpse the cathedral and the sherry bodegas beyond.
Palacio del Virrey Laserna
Just beyond the Alcázar, we passed the elegant Palacio del Virrey Laserna, now a museum. Its carved stone doorway, crest, and iron balconies speak of Jerez’s aristocratic past. The palace’s façade captures the city’s blend of heritage and artistry — a perfect architectural echo of the stories told in its streets. Unfortunately, our tour did not allow time for us to see the inside.
Jerez De la Frontera Cathedral
A short walk from the palace brought us to the impressive Jerez Cathedral, rising above the old town with its mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture. The massive flying buttresses, ornate stone carvings, and grand dome give the cathedral a dramatic presence. Even from the outside, it feels monumental — a building shaped by centuries of additions and restorations. The plaza around it is quiet and sun‑washed, offering beautiful views of the cathedral’s intricate details as you walk past.
Walking the Streets of Jerez
Leaving the fortress area, we wandered through narrow lanes lined with whitewashed houses and wrought‑iron balconies. The air smelled faintly of orange blossoms, and the rhythm of daily life — locals chatting, café tables spilling into the street — the city had such an easy charm.
Plaza del Arenal and the Statue
Our walk led us to Plaza del Arenal, Jerez’s lively central square. At its heart stands the equestrian statue of Miguel Primo de Rivera (a local military figure) surrounded by fountains and palms. The plaza hums with energy — children playing, friends meeting for coffee, and the sound of flamenco drifting from nearby bars.
Touring González Byass Sherry Distillery
Next came the highlight: a tour of González Byass Sherry Distillery, the historic and world-famous sherry bodega founded in 1835 and home to the brand – Tío Pepe. Inside its maze of courtyards and cellars, rows of oak barrels rest beneath vaulted brick arches, perfumed with wine and wood. The visit felt like stepping into a living museum of Andalusian craftsmanship and tradition. They have hundreds of barrels signed by the rich and famous, including Steven Spielberg, Elizabeth Taylor, and a host of royalty. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how deeply this place is woven into global culture. After the tour we are treated to a tasting of several wines and sherries accompanied by local cheese and specialty dried meats.
Lunch at Venta de Vargas
From Jerez we drove to Venta de Vargas, a restaurant steeped in flamenco history. Over a long, wonderful lunch, we were treated to live flamenco dancing — the rhythmic clapping, guitar, and passionate movement filling the room with energy. It was one of those moments where food and art merge perfectly, capturing the soul of Andalusia.
Afternoon in Cádiz
After lunch, we returned to Cádiz to spend the afternoon walking along the seashore, watching waves crash against the old city walls. The light softened as we wandered through Cádiz’s streets and squares, discovering quiet corners, lively cafés, and the timeless rhythm of a coastal city that has seen centuries of travelers come and go.
Summary of Our First Day in Spain
Our first full day in Spain set the tone for the entire three‑week journey. Starting in Cádiz, we drove inland to explore the history and culture of Jerez de la Frontera — from the Moorish Alcázar and the stately Palacio del Virrey Laserna to the cathedral, lively plazas, and the world‑famous González Byass Sherry Distillery. A long flamenco‑filled lunch at Venta de Vargas carried the spirit of Andalusia straight into the afternoon, before we returned to Cádiz to wander its seashore, streets, and sun‑washed squares.
It was a day that blended architecture, tradition, music, and the sea — a perfect beginning to our Spanish adventure. With Cádiz and Jerez behind us, the road now leads east toward our next major stop: Valencia, where a completely different side of Spain awaits.
Links to all the Stops:
And were you thinking of Paul Cádiz!?
Not an actual cheese, just a type that I’m guessing you can easily get here?
How wonderful! Did you bring home a recipe or maybe a favorite cheese?