Located between the Roche and La Barrosa beaches and not far from the historic quarter, Loma del Puerco is a scenario etched in blood and fire on the memories of people around Chiclana del la Frontera. This was the scene, in 1811, of the famous Battle of Chiclana which holds great significance for the people of the area. This military confrontation was against the Napoleonic empire. Nowadays, it is an exceptionally lovely spot with incredible panoramic views of the Cádiz coastline.
Loma del Puerco is also known as the Torre del Puerco since there is a military lookout tower here dating from the time of King Philip II — which affords a fantastic view, and which has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest.
Close to Loma del Puerco, there is a park with children’s play areas, restaurants, zip wires, a seven-a-side football pitch, and a bio-health circuit which is almost four-kilometres long. Nearby is Loma del Puerco beach with its fine, golden sand.
.
- La Barrosa, a battlefield
- How do I get to Loma del Puerco
- Torre del Puerco beach
- Activities and places to visit nearby
La Barrosa, a battlefield
The history of Loma del Puerco is tied to the struggle against the Napoleonic Empire. Early in March 1811, the famous Battle of Chiclana took place here, a confrontation between the local population and foreigners. Thousands of Spanish, French, British, Polish and German soldiers were involved. Many lost their lives in the battle and, it is said that the waters of La Barrosa were stained with blood. This made a deep impression on the local population, who will always remember that Loma del Puerco was the scene of a historic battle.
How do I get to Loma del Puerco
A walk around Loma del Puerco can be a very pleasant activity with family or friends, particularly if you are relaxed and can take your time.
The best way to travel to the park is from the Novo Sancti Petri development at Chiclana de la Frontera. There is also a car park, and nearby you can see two huge cannons. There are two circuits signposted in the park: one for walkers, and the other for cyclists to follow.
Torre del Puerco beach
Considered part of La Barrosa beach, the neighbouring beach of Torre del Puerco is 4,000 metres long and an average of 60 metres wide. This is a semi-urban beach with fine, golden sand. You can reach it on foot or in your own vehicle. We should point out that the beach is set in front of small cliffs, but access is not difficult, as there are steps.
During the high season, Torre del Puerco de Chiclana beach (barely 20 kilometres from El Palmar) has essential services, including a lifeguard, showers, food and drink kiosks, and beach bars.
Activities and places to visit nearby
Loma del Puerco park offers a host of sports activities and plenty of facilities to enjoy them. You can either walk around the park or follow a signposted route for cyclists. You can also play football here as there is a seven-a-side artificial football pitch, as well as another area for various sports. There is even an exercise circuit that stretches for several kilometres.
In addition, there are picnic areas in the shade and a kiosk-bar where you can have a snack or organise a picnic meal. And if you decide to go to the Loma del Puerco in the evening, you will be rewarded with a magical sunset with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The beaches of Roche and La Barrosa are very close to the Torre del Puerco. It is worth going for a walk, (and a swim, of course) on these famous beaches of fine golden sand. While you are there, it is worth strolling around the streets and squares in the centre of Chiclana and the huge luxury developments that have grown up around it, such as Novo Sancti Petri and Roche. Another fascinating destination is Sancti Petri Castle, a military fortress that stands on an islet overlooked by Chiclana.
What to see in Chiclana de la Frontera You could visit the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, a church built during the eighteenth century in the Neo-Classical style, as well as the Jesús Nazareno Monastery, the church of San Telmo, the Mercado de Abastos [Food Market], and the Santa Ana hermitage, perched on a hilltop. A short distance from Loma del Puerto is the Bay of Cádiz Natural Park, a genuine oasis of biodiversity, with marshlands, salt flats and swamps.
