Cádiz is believed to be Western Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, was founded by the Phoenicians, and dates back over an incredible 3000 years. During that time Cadiz was a settlement of the Phonecians, the Romans, the Visigoths, the Moors, and now the Spanish.

The city is situated on a long, narrow peninsula extending into the Gulf of Cádiz (an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean). With a 9.5- to 11-km circumference, hemmed in by the sea from which it is protected by walls, the city has only one land exit.

We had planned on catching the ferry from El Puerto Santa Maria but we were disappointed to learn it was not operating. We ended up driving which was a bit hairy at times but we made it.

We spent the day in Cadiz exploring its streets and beaches. We had lunch at a wonderful at a tapas bar, we visited Mercado Central and were amazed at the quality and price.

Walking along the promenade at the beach, where people were swimming! It was a sunny day but the breeze off the Atlantic was cold – crazy people.