Tarifa - the land synonymous with the Levante and Poniente wind power machines that are hardly ever idle, which is initially the most important and generally well-known fact about this hotspot for wind sports enthusiasts in Europe. Tarifa is formerly a small fishing village which has developed into one of the wind sports Meccas of Europe over the years. The wind blows almost every day through the strait between the southernmost point of Spain and the coast of Africa/Morocco. For this spot check of Tarifa, we asked local girl, Nia Suardiaz, for the full lowdown on this magical place where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic.
YOUR LOCAL GUIDE
Nia Suardiaz was born and raised in Tarifa and the 17-year-old is the reigning world champion of wing-foiling in Freestyle and FreeFly Slalom, so it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about one of Europe’s windiest locations.
WHERE TO WING-FOIL IN TARIFA?
Our family and friends mostly go to Valdevaqueros. We head to the TANGANA Beach Bar where they offer delicious food. In winter, I also go to Balneario or Playa Chica, which is a spot that is only open to locals during the winter months.
TYPICAL WIND AND WATER CONDITIONS?
The Levante is often a bit gusty and choppy, while the Poniente tends to blow constantly and can also bring waves. We experience the Poniente mainly during the winter months, and at this time of year, you can experience a real swell with it, while in the summer the water remains relatively flat. During the winter you may need a little while to get out on the wingfoil board, but the great thing about Valdevaqueros is that this spot works in all wind directions.
SKILL LEVEL FOR VALDEVAQUEROS?
This story is from the Issue 434 - June 2024 edition of Windsurf.
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This story is from the Issue 434 - June 2024 edition of Windsurf.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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