Tarifa, Spain, is famous for its relentlessness windy conditions and breeze from two very distinct directions – both can serve up a healthy dose of hardcore windsurfing. Wind strengths can often reach 40 knots, without actually being a specific storm!
In summer the wind’s direction is usually from the east (cross offshore from the left) whereas autumn see the angle switch to the opposite direction and it blow cross onshore from the west – named the Levante and Poniente. The reason for this jet powered wind is the close proximity of Africa, just across the Strait of Gibraltar. Squeezed by the two land masses gusts can ramp up and therefore provide full power conditions for anyone heading afloat.
Tarifa is a year round destination, with a number of pro sailors and brands calling it ‘home’ for the off season. This allows consistent training and gear testing/tuning ahead of the following year’s competitions.
In recent years Tarifa has become inundated with kitesurfers, but of late windsurfers have been returning en masse to redress the balance.
Pics: Sportif Holidays, Tarifa Spinout, Ruralidays
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