The Atlantic coast of southern Spain, the Costa de la Luz, is home to some of the windiest spots in Europe. Hotels and guesthouses in the area have names such as Hotel Hurricane, El Palacio del Viento and Hostal El Levante. Its epicenter, right on the Strait of Gibraltar, is the coastal town of Tarifa.
Surfer-Dude Vibe
Over the years, the region has become a major hub for the international kitesurfing community. Tarifa has even been called “Kitesurfing Capital of Europe.” Its main spots, Los Lances and Valdevaqueros beaches, are surrounded by a number of surf schools and beach bars. Chiringuitos Tangano, Tumbao and Waves are popular hangouts with a surfer-dude vibe, an interesting departure from the usual mainstream beach tourism.
Levante Blowing
The region’s strongest wind is the infamous Levante, a hot and dry easterly known for its violent gusts. It is mainly caused by the difference in pressure between the Mediterranean and Atlantic sides of the Strait of Gibraltar. The topography also plays a part. As the wind passes through the Strait, it is deflected by the high terrain on either side, increasing its speed (a mechanism known as the Venturi effect).
