Andalucia is in luck. The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has designated Jerez as the World Capital of Motorcycling, the first time a city has been awarded. Over the next three years, the town will develop an extensive program of activities and its main purpose is to become a great motorcycling theme park.
When spring comes, the roar of the engines becomes the soundtrack of this corner of southern Spain and visitors from all parts of the world come to experience this unique experience first-hand with the very best riders on the international scene. Jerez is famous to all lovers of MotoGP who will now also be able to enjoy their passion for motorcycles with events scheduled throughout the year.
If you like excitement, make room in your diary and come to Andalucia. You can combine it with endless plans that will make these lazy days your best choice. Grab a pen and paper and take note of all the information we offer.
Jerez de la Frontera, World Capital of Motorcycling
Jerez’ extensive biking tradition has made the city the World Capital of Motorcycling in 2015. From 1956 to the present, speed tests have been held and it currently has extensive experience in developing activities internationally as the Spanish Motorcycle Grand Prix.
Over the next three years, this city in Cádiz be home to this sport with an extensive program of events. The idea is to turn Jerez into a large motorcycling theme park. The entire city will become a circuit because in addition to the speed trials held, there will be others in different areas so there will be a total of eight international bike trials. So, take note and don’t miss out on the timetable for this 2015:
Jerez timetable, international capital of motorcycling
Supermoto (March 29th), a fusion of speed motorcycling and motocross. Races take place on tracks with off-road sections within the same circuit, usually with a small high-speed jump.
Spain Grand Prix (May 2nd-3rd). The MotoGP Spain Grand Prix at Jerez de la Frontera is one of the most prestigious internationally. Thirteen curves spread out over four kilometres where the key is speed. This is a type of motorcycling done on racetracks, tracks or paved roads. The aim is often to travel a certain distance in the shortest time possible.
Enduro (May 9th-10th), a type of motorcycling practised indoors and out. This is a rally-type race in which routes established by the organisation are performed at set times. The stages include short timed trials that require skill, dexterity and speed on the bike.
Freestyle (May 23rd), a type of motorcycling in which competitors must jump, perform stunts in the air and land neatly. It is done with freestyle motocross (FMX) bikes.
World GP Bike Legend (June 19th-21st), this spectacular three-day festival will offer motorbike racing fans a unique opportunity not only to see the incredible machines back together and running at full speed, but also to meet up close and in person their legendary idols of Grand Prix motorbike.
Trial (September 12th-13th), a motorcycling discipline in which riders must overcome obstacles without touching the ground with the body or falling. Essential skills are balance and planning of movements to advance in the path.
Superbike (September 20th), a speed motorcycling championship where, unlike the MotoGP, the motorcycles are superbikes.
Internacional CEV Fim Repsol (October 31st – November 1st), the Assembly of the International Motorcycling Federation has decided that, starting 2015, the Moto3 category will become the FIM World CEV Repsol Moto3 Junior, becoming one of the largest international pools of young riders.
Motorbike Walk of Fame
In addition to these events there are other activities scheduled to mark the World Capital of Motorcycling, including the Walk of Fame, located on the avenue Alcalde Álvaro Domecq. This initiative was recently opened with a star dedicated to Spanish rider Ángel Nieto and another for Giacomo Agostini.
As such, Jerez will pay tribute to the great current figures and legends of motorcycling and the Paseo de las Naciones in the Jardín Escénico, where will be installed the models of the circuits with which Jerez will be twinned.
In turn, it is expected that several concerts will be held during 2015, as well as two World Summits, one on Sustainable Environment and another entitled Women and Motorcycling. There will also be some workshops on Ageing and Motorcycling, Leadership and Motorcycling, and Sports Medicine.
Jerez Racetrack
The MotoGP Spain Grand Prix at Jerez de la Frontera is one of the most prestigious internationally. Thirteen curves spread out over four kilometres where the adrenaline is key. Starting early in the morning, attendees at the Jerez racetrack take their positions so as not to miss any detail of the races. If you come, you will see the Márquez brothers in action, Dani Pedrosa, Jorge Lorenzo and other great masters on two wheels. It is an unforgettable experience which you can record with your camera and with a vibrant atmosphere where you can release all your emotions.
Products from Jerez
Since you are in this corner of Cádiz, you cannot leave without trying its local products. The area boasts some of the most important denominations of origin as regards wines of Spain. These are “Jerez-Xérès-Sherry” and “Manzanilla – Sanlúcar de Barrameda”. Diversity is undoubtedly one of the hallmarks of the identity of Jerez: fine, fragrant, and muscat, among others. Here you can taste different varieties like Fino, Manzanilla, Amontillado, Oloroso, Muscat, Pale Cream and Pedro Ximénez. The famous Manzanilla de Sanlúcar has its own Denomination of Origin.
A good plan after shaking with the roar of the engines is to visit a winery to taste these delicacies. Even the most sophisticated palates agree with the quality of these wines. If you accompany them with tapas consisting of ham or cheese, the sensory experience you have will be unforgettable. Among the wineries you can visit is the Tío Pepe in Manuel Maria Gonzalez street or the winery Gran Mariscal s. XVIII in the street Cazón, number 9.
Conil, a beach paradise less than an hour away
Just 45 minutes from the Jerez racetrack is the small paradise of crystal clear water and fine white sand that is Conil de la Frontera. This area has a pleasant climate and in the month of May you can take a dip on its beaches and enjoy the sunshine. A typical Andalucian village which always affectionately welcomes all who want to visit it and where you have the feeling of being at home. You can also take long walks along the coast or, if you prefer, ride on a typical Spanish horse. Don’t miss the opportunity to mix both emotions: the adrenaline rush of MotoGP with rest and relaxation in a quiet area in contact with nature.
Charming Courtyards
In addition to Conil de la Frontera’s natural wealth, there is an increasingly admired tradition that has become demanded by tourists: a guided tour through the courtyards of the village. In Andalucia, its locals lovingly care for this area of the house and create true Gardens of Eden, filled with plants and flowers. In this corner of Cadiz, they do it with love and open the doors of their homes so that everyone who wants to can visit them. The Andalucian courtyard has Roman and Arab ancestors, and Andalucians have continued this tradition of organising life around this space which is normally the coolest area in the house. Hand-painted flowerpots, iron trellises, wells or watering cans mix with flowers and vegetation, attracting the attention of those coming from other areas.
So remember, if you go to Conil, look for these areas and see first-hand one of the most intimate attractions in the service and enjoyment of tourists. Also, here you can interact with people and see the warmth of the Andalucian people.
Good food
Certainly one of the things you might like on your trip to the province of Cádiz is its cuisine. In Conil and its coastline, you can try the tuna, a delicacy brought from the sea to your table where each bite transports you back to the seabed. You can try it cooked in many ways. In fact, many restaurants have their own speciality or they will serve it to you as you like it.
Wild bluefin tuna, which is what is caught in Conil, is a high quality product, a culinary delicacy, prized nationally and internationally, an excellent source of protein of high biological value, rich in vitamins A, B and D, and minerals. It is also low in saturated fat and high in Omega 3 which helps control cholesterol. Taste and health come together in one of the most typical dishes of the area.
If you prefer, you can also choose fried fish. A good plan is to buy one of these wrapped in cardboard and eat it while you stroll through the village. There are many reasons why you have to try fine dining on the Cádiz coast, recipes that will not disappoint you.
Now you know, if you go to the province to enjoy the Jerez racetrack and the MotoGP Spain Grand Prix, please pay attention to all the advice we have given. The satisfaction of your trip will be doubled. Can you afford to miss out?
WHERE TO STAY
If you are looking for accommodation to enjoy the MotoGP Spain Grand Prix in Jerez, we recommend Fuerte Conil. The hotel is located just 45 minutes from the circuit and is the perfect choice to unwind after adrenaline-fuelled moments alongside your favourite drivers. In your stay you’ll have the comfort and peace of a chain which has over 50 years’ experience in the sector. Facing one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, La Fontanilla beach, just 5 minutes’ walk from the centre of Conil de la Frontera, this hotel establishment inspires confidence. An ideal choice for an ideal destination.