Duotone Magazine No. 06

“In 1992, at the age of 16, I left home in Valencia to live in Tarifa. These were the early years of Bjørn Dunkerbeck, Anders Bringdal and Robert Teriitehau – I adored them and was thriving to become a professional windsurfer myself. I regularly had been coming to Tarifawithmy dad, an avidwindsurfer, since 1982, so it alreadywas like a second home for me, even before I moved there permanently. Tarifa was quite different then. I remember the town only extending to Puerta de Jerez and there was hardly any tourism yet. Everything was quite rural. We had to drive on the sand to Punta Paloma and parked right on the beach to ride at Valdevaqueros. Today the town of Tarifa is hardly recognizable in comparison to back then. It evolved froma sleepy coastal town to a vibrant meeting place for athletes from all around the world. By Jaime Herraiz Surrounded by natural parks, golden beaches, and rolling hills that merge with the sea, Tarifa still retains its rustic charm. There’s something magnetic about this place. It’s where nature and sport blend seamlessly. Nestledat thesouthernmost tipofmainlandEurope, Tarifahasbecome a haven for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its unique location between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic creates perfect conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wing foiling, thanks to the steady Levante and Poniente winds. The Levante, warm and strong, can blow for days or even weeks, while the Poniente, cooler and milder, offers gentler conditions for those looking for a less intense experience. This balance makes Tarifa a versatile destination for all skill levels. Naturally, there‘s a huge sports community in Tarifa. It started with a pack of hardcore windsurfers back in the 80ies, then expanded to include kitesurfers, and nowwing surfers. With the 12kms of sandy beach stretching along the coast, there’s enough room for everyone to feel comfortable. Disciplines somehow naturally get organized and share the coastline harmoniously. Iconic spots like Valdevaqueros, Punta Paloma, and Balneario offer everything from freestyle conditions to gentle waves for beginners. The age mix is quite diverse too. From 70-year-old windsurfers who are still passionate about catching a wave every day to young stars like Nia Suardiaz, a wing foil world champion, the town fosters an environment where generations inspire one another. It’s amazing to see kids from the Young Blood Camps sharing the same spots as legends of the sport. Tarifa is a true melting pot. Surrounded by natural parks, mountains, and beaches, Tarifa offers an outdoor lifestyle few places can rival. The combination of sea and hills creates a unique sense of freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a destination that attracts not just athletes but also hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Additionally, its rich history, from Roman ruins to medieval fortresses, invites visitors to explore the past. Andalusian culture shines through in every corner, from the food to the nightlife. Local favorites like Tangana and Sunset Bolonia serveupunforgettablediningexperiences that perfectly capoffanactiveday.WhileTarifamaintains its authentic spirit, the summermonths canbringa surge of visitors. InAugust, the narrowstreets of the old townand the beaches become crowded, which can disrupt the usual laid-back vibe. However, once the peak season passes, Tarifa quickly returns to its relaxed and welcoming pace. For me, Tarifa is more than just a workplace or a tourist spot; it’s a lifestyle. I’ve been lucky to raise my family in an environment where sports and nature are part of daily life. Tarifa offers the best of both worlds: the chance to chase your passions while enjoying an unparalleled quality of life. With its consistent winds, welcoming community, and stunning natural beauty, Tarifa continues to be a beacon for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a deep connection to nature.” 95 TA R I FA DUOTONE