El Rompido smells of the sea and it is this marine ambience which has given this little corner of southern Spain one of its most characteristic images: the two lighthouses. Currently only one of them work, dating from 1975, which is 31 metres tall. The other, which is smaller, was erected in 1861 and was built to mark the mouth of the Piedras river. If you travel along the coast of Huelva, come to this area which lights up the evening. Can you imagine being here, seeing nothing but the ocean on the horizon? Visit these two iconic lighthouses and enjoy this beautiful fishing village.

 

The lighthouses and culture

It is not every day that you have the opportunity to be near the sea and to visit the fishermen’s compass: the lighthouse. It is curious to find two of them right next to each other, but that’s what makes El Rompido so special. If you want to know more about these structures, make an appointment in the library that is located in the oldest lighthouse.

It is a cultural meeting place for residents which often holds exhibitions of all kinds. El Rompido’s neighbourhood association regularly uses the lighthouses for various activities.

If you dare to visit these two lighthouses, make sure you bring some paper and a pencil if inspiration comes to you and you want to express your feelings. Once they are alone at the immense sea, it often happens to people. The feelings that arise are so special that they deserve to be expressed and remembered forever.

At night, looking at the ocean and seeing the lonely lighthouse light turning fascinates the beholder.

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Real Almadraba

Tourism in Huelva is, in part, very marine-focused and El Rompido is a clear example. The work done by the lighthouse at night allows fishermen to catch the best of the sea. If you’re on holiday in this area in the Marismas del Río Piedras Nature Reserve on the Costa de la Luz, do not miss the tuna fishing which offers a broader view of this ancient task. The structure is located in privileged surroundings with untouched vegetation and is the perfect starting point to delve into the essence of this fishing village and learn about their customs.

The trap is a very typical tuna fishing art in the waters where the Atlantic Ocean mixes with the Mediterranean. It consists of placing two boats at a distance from each other and hanging a net which tuna and other fish are collected in. Since the fish brought up onto the boat are still alive, the small or useless samples can immediately be selected and discarded.

The local fishermen moved up and down this net, discarding the smaller specimens. The ones chosen are bled and then stuck onto harpoons.

On your walk through this place, you can also see the typical areas where goods were stored and where a large part of the activity, such as storage and draining the tuna, was performed.

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The beach at El Rompido

Now you’ve seen the lighthouses, and the tuna fishing, it’s time for the local pristine beaches. Here you’ll be surrounded by untouched nature and have the majestic Atlantic Ocean ahead. Don’t forget your camera because you will never want to forget the image of this charming coast. The untouched vegetation, dunes and pine forests that accompany it make this area a dream place to find the peace and tranquillity we need to unwind from everyday life. One of the peculiarities of this coast is known as Flecha de El Rompido, a unique sandy formation that opens to the Atlantic Ocean from a wild beach that is accessible by boat.

 

Gastronomy

And although you’ve seen all the intricacies of this seaside town, make sure you try the fresh seafood. Prawns from Huelva are unrivalled. The Huelva coast is recognized internationally for the quality of its seafood, and especially its star product. You can try them grilled, with pil sauce or with salad. At El Rompido, you can find this succulent dish at the restaurant La Brasa de Horizontal or at Restaurant El Rincón de Pecadores where you will also enjoy the beautiful views that this place has to offer.

 

27 things to see and do to have a dream holiday in El Rompido

 

ACCOMMODATION

For a perfect plan that combines good views and good service, nothing beats Fuerte Hoteles. If you decide to travel through the province of Huelva and visit the lighthouses, you should stay at Fuerte El Rompido which boasts a spectacular location on a hill that dominates the natural setting of Río Piedras. On top of this, the Andalucian architecture is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Here you can enjoy a 14-kilometre long wild beach and impressive views. Over 60 years of experience endorse the hotel chain which stands as a benchmark of quality.