Jimena de la Frontera 

Jimena de la Frontera is a small village situated approximately 35 kilometres inland from San Roque and approximately 40 kilometres from Manilva. The village is steeped in history and became protected by a Historical and Architectural importance declaration in 1983. It is also centrally located in the Los Alcornocales Natural Park. The village is a popular location for ex-pats to settle and is one of the most peaceful places to stay in this region of Spain.

Main Tourist Attractions

As the village is situated 200 metres above sea level, you will have quite a trek to reach the village’s castle! The views alone are certainly worth the journey up to this building. The castle has Moorish and Roman origins and is a great place to stop with a pre-packed lunch and take in the landscape. The centre of town has a tower which is the only remaining piece of the Santa Maria La Coronada church, which was first mentioned in history books in 1690. Due to the fact that Jimena de la Frontera is situated in the Las Alcornocales natural Park, nature lovers, walkers and hikers will enjoy this area immensely. San Roque offers those who love golf six courses to choose from as well as opportunities for rock climbing, tennis, squash and polo.

Shopping Opportunities

Jimena de la Frontera has a range of interesting shops to browse and purchase goods such as clothing, shoes, leather goods, hats, glasses, toys and souvenirs. A forty minute drive brings you to the town of Sotogrande where you will find the Sotomarket, which has many items for sale under one roof. You can purchase items such as clothing, perfume, sports goods, toys, jewellery, watches, fine art and gifts. There is also an arts & crafts fair held twice a week.

Eating out and Nightlife

The village is home to several cafés and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. The menus are traditionally of Spanish origin; a few international dishes may be on offer on occasion. Once local speciality to try in Jimena de la Frontera is Tagarnina, which is a dish made with edible thistles. All meals can be washed down with a selection of great Spanish wines. Nearby San Roque has many upmarket eateries for that special evening meal.

There are no clubs or discos to be found in Jimena de la Frontera; it is a typically sleepy and tranquil Spanish village. The nights are spent getting to know the locals and sitting in the evening warmth with a bottle of fine wine.