The bay of Cadiz is located in the southern Andalucia about an hours drive south of the autonomous region capital, Seville. It encompasses around 10,000 Hectors of beautiful sandy beaches, slat marches, fresh water lakes and inlets as well as two natural parks, the ISLA de TROCADERO and the MARISMAS of SANCTI PETRI and supports a surprising amount of varied wildlife, much more than a first glance would suggest.
Enter the area from the San Fernando side of the Bay and the area is taken up with the simple natural beauty and calmness of the Salt Plains and marshland.
These wet lands ( Las SALINAS ) have supported salt mining since the times of the Phoenicians , the Romans also used it to preserve fish . These days little is left of this ancient farming technique as the cultivation of oysters, sea bass , prawns and clams now drives the local economy along with tourism and fishing.
The salt panning industry had a major effect on the area although great damage was done as abandoned salt mines where filled in to make way for land for construction during the 70s. Thankfully all future threats where halted in 1989 with the creation of the natural park and the wetland area which has become one of the most important in Europe, supporting a rich variety of plants and birds.
Cadiz Bay boasts an exceptional historical and architectural heritage. Its cuisine is some of the best in Spain and if you visit the area try some of the fresh local fresh and sea food noto top forget and one of the superb local wines or sherry’s on offer.
The most important festivals of this area would be the Cadiz Carnival in February, and the Virgen del Carmen Festival.
Gary
