Monasterio de San Miguel

El Puerto de Santa Maria is the third corner of the sherry triangle and a lively seaside town on the far side of the bay from Cadiz. The Monasterio de San Miguel offers a stay in a historic former monastery, a building of calm courtyards, arches and thick stone walls that has been converted into a hotel. For travellers who want a unique building, a pool and a base between Cadiz and Jerez, it is an attractive alternative to staying in either city.

The hotel's setting gives you access to El Puerto's pleasures: the riverside walk lined with seafood restaurants, the bodegas that welcome visitors, the beaches nearby and the bullring and old streets. The ferry across the bay to Cadiz is a scenic way to move between the two places, and Jerez is a short drive or train ride away. That makes El Puerto a strong base for a mixed itinerary: mornings in Cadiz, afternoons in the sherry cellars, evenings at the fish restaurants of the port.

Inside, expect spacious public areas, a cloister-style courtyard and rooms in a classic style. The pool offers relief in summer, and the dining room serves regional food. Because it is a converted monastery, layouts are varied, and some rooms may be quieter than others. Parking is typically available, which suits drivers. El Puerto gets busy in summer, when the beach towns fill, and during festivals, so book ahead. Winter is quieter and the restaurants remain active. Check current details on amenities, ferry timetables and policies when booking, since schedules can change by season.

El Puerto rewards a base with a slower pace. Mornings can start with a walk through the old streets to the market and the river promenade, where fishing boats come and go. Lunch is the main event, usually at one of the seafood restaurants along the waterfront, with grilled fish, prawns and fried specialities washed down with a glass of fino. The afternoon is a time for rest or for a bodega tour, and early evening is perfect for a ferry crossing to Cadiz, when the light is golden and the city walls glow.

The nearby beaches, such as those on the Atlantic side, are good for a swim in summer, and cycling paths run through pine woods. Because the hotel is in a former religious house, ask the staff about its history and any areas that guests can visit. It is a good choice for people who like to combine sightseeing with a relaxed coastal feel, and for travellers who prefer a smaller town to a city. Check ferry timetables in advance, as they change by season.