A town synonymous with sherry, dancing horses and motorsports, Jerez de la Frontera also features the typical Andalusian traits of gorgeous sunshine, elaborately painted tiles and rhythmic flamenco.

The latter was reportedly born here and the town is home to the Andalusian Centre of Flamenco. Nearby is the ‘bodega’ of Harveys, one sherry brand offering wine cellar tours. Others include Pedro Domecq – the oldest – and Tio Pepe, whose fame stretches worldwide.

Horse statues are found all over town and a park houses the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, a dressage riding school offering public performances. The annual Jerez Horse Fair is an even more spectacular event that takes over the whole town. The town also teems with bike enthusiasts during the Spanish Moto GP, on a circuit which also hosts pre-season F1 testing.

Other sights include Jerez Alcázar, an 11th-century Moorish castle, and the multi-faceted cathedral which is beautifully lit at night. Plaza del Mercado has the archaeology museum and part of the city walls surround the historic centre. The Hammam Andalusí offers a wonderful Arab baths experience, and the Cartuja monastery provides more soul food.

Booking.com’s Jerez de la Frontera accommodation includes 5-star hotels with pools, and cheap apartments and guest houses near the train station, with direct links to Jerez Airport.