COSTA DE LA LUZ
Where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, the ‘Coast of Light’ offers wide golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a breezy, unspoiled charm that captures the essence of life on Spain’s southern shore.
UNDISCOVERED SHORES
Living on the Coast of Light
The Costa de la Luz, or “Coast of Light,” lives up to its name with year-round sunshine and miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline. At its southern tip lies Zahara de los Atunes, a charming Andalusian fishing village known for its bluefin tuna and relaxed coastal rhythm. With centuries-old traditions and a history rooted in the sea, Zahara remains one of Spain’s best-kept secrets and the beach destination for our founding collections. Co-owning a home here means embracing an authentic coastal lifestyle, with sweeping views that reach across the water to Morocco.
From tranquil mornings to leisurely seafood lunches to relaxed evenings in the quaint town, Zahara days unfold with an easy coastal rhythm. Welcome to a life of sun-drenched simplicity, welcome to Zahara. Let’s dive in…
Deep Rooted Tradition
The heritage of Zahara de los Atunes stretches back thousands of years. The tradition of tuna fishing here originates from before Roman times, making it one of the oldest continuous fishing practices in the world. Each year, migratory bluefin tuna follow the Atlantic currents and pass through these waters on their journey to the Mediterranean, making Zahara an ideal spot for the ancient “almadraba” fishing technique.
This sustainable method uses a complex system of nets to catch the tuna, preserved through generations and remaining central to the local economy and cultural identity. Every May, Zahara de los Atunes celebrates the Almadraba Tuna Festival, a lively event that honors the ancient tuna fishing tradition through local cuisine, music, and cultural festivities, bringing the community together to celebrate this prized heritage.
A Charming Beach Town with Culinary Excellence
Zahara de los Atunes is a paradise for food lovers, celebrated especially for its exceptional seafood and centered around its world-famous bluefin tuna. Zahara’s tuna is prized internationally, with a significant portion exported to Japan for its superior quality and flavor. The village’s culinary scene celebrates its namesake tuna, starring in dishes from sashimi-style tartares to classic Andalusian recipes. Notable restaurants such as Antonio have become local landmarks, attracting visitors in search of authentic coastal flavors. Zahara’s gastronomic reputation even caught the attention of renowned chef José Andrés, who featured Restaurante Antonio and the village’s tuna traditions in his HBO series José Andrés & Family in Spain, highlighting its unique place in Spanish food culture.
Mild Climate, Changing Rhythm
The rhythm of Zahara de los Atunes adapts to each season throughout the year. In summer, the village transforms – its population multiplying several times over as visitors arrive to enjoy its pristine beaches, vibrant dining scene, and long, sun-filled days stretching until nearly 10p.m. Even at its peak, Zahara still remains a well-kept seaside secret, far from Spain’s crowded coastal hotspots. In the off-season, the pace slows, and the shoreline becomes a peaceful retreat – sometimes one even shared with the iconic Retinta cows that can be seen wandering the beaches, a charming reminder of the area’s rural heritage. Thanks to its mild coastal climate, Zahara offers beach-worthy days throughout the year, including the quieter months from October to March.
Extraordinary Exploring
Co-owning a home in Zahara de los Atunes opens the door to unique day trip adventures along one of Spain’s most unspoiled coastlines and beyond. While Zahara itself offers a laid-back village atmosphere and vast stretches of untouched beaches, nearby destinations bring striking contrasts. Head north to Bolonia for wild dunes and ancient Roman ruins, or to Tarifa for its energetic kitesurfing scene where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. Caños de Meca and El Palmar offer bohemian charm, dramatic cliffs, and barefoot beach bars. And for something entirely different, Gibraltar is just an hour away – a British Overseas Territory where you can spot wild monkeys and take in sweeping views from the iconic Rock. From relaxed coastal escapes to scenic adventures, in Zahara you’re at the center of it all.
