Thurs 5th
Baela Claudia a former Roman town was on
our list for today, it is an archeological site approx. 10 miles north of
Tarifa. The drive to it was wonderful, up a mountain then down the other side
to the site. Baela was constructed in the 2nd century BC as an
important centre for trade and production of salted fish. Being situated on the
Straits of Gibraltar was ideal as it was right on the sea and close to
Tangiers.
aquaduct
fish salting tanks
Surprisingly it only survived to the 4th
century BC before it declined and fell into ruins. The remains are very well presented
and cover a huge area. They have been sympathetically restored and are
fascinating to walk around. It really makes you appreciate just how clever the
Romans were when you see the complex heating system for the baths. A place well
worth a visit.
heating system
forum
Our stop for the night was a free spot
beside a hotel right on the beach – Arte Vida where had stayed on a previous
visit. Free wifi, water and brilliant views across the sea to Morocco, it just
feels a great place to stay. Windy
though!
free parking - Arte Vida
Fri 6th
We decided to move all of 2 miles to try
another free beach parking spot, more popular as there was nearly 30 vans. Lots
of them are kite surfers as it has very easy access to the beach.
Morocco in the distance
Scoot out we rode into Tarifa and after a
coffee had a walk about. Our second time here but still more to see. We sat and
watched a few backpackers coming of the Tangiers ferry, one said it was cold
over there and “f****** freezing” at night.
Back at the van it was BBQ chicken
time! Bloomin cold sitting outside in
the biting wind, but the smell alone made it worth it. Yum Yum. We had a feast in the evening – did I mention
we love BBQ chicken? Oh yes we do…………………
Clever old Romans; under-floor heating.
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