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| Landsailing in Tarifa. |
LANDSAILING
Land sailing, also called ´land yachting´ or ´sand yachting´, involves the maneuvering of low, wheeled vehicles using a sail similar to that used in windsurfing. The origins of the sport are disputed, but by many accounts, the Ancient Egyptians used a comparable on-land sail system. Around the year 1600, Flemish scientist Simon Stevin invented the precursor to the modern land yacht for Prince Maurice of Orange, to entertain the Prince´s guests. It wasn´t until the 1950s that land sailing became almost exclusively identified as a sport.
Today, the sport remains niche, but more accessible to novices than windsurfing, and for the most part safer. Land yachts can still reach speeds of 70mph in some windier conditions (the world record is 116mph), unhindered by the water resistance of traditional sailing, but being rooted on the ground is a reassurance for many.
The vehicles do not generally have brakes; users control their speed and movements by easing off the sail, or turning into the wind.
The windy conditions which characterize Tarifa obviously lend themselves to land sailing, and those interested can take short courses with Landsailing Tarifa, who occupy a flat, sandy patch of land 3km out of town, opposite the Playa de los Lances. A 45-minute course is 28€, and children between 6-8 can accompany an adult in a double cart for an extra 12€.
As of end of the Summer season 2018 the land sailing establishment in Tarifa as described above closed. In Summer 2021 the site on the N-340 at km 80 was open as a Quad bike track.
Tarifa - built in the Moorish style, set in subtropical gardens leading down to the unspoilt beach.
Stylish & contemporary hotel close to unspoilt beaches. Gardens and large pool. Ideal for families.
Fast 45 min Ferry service, Tarifa to Tanger Ville, choice of two operators. Ideal for exploring Tanger town including day trips. Choose Algeciras to Tanger Med for road trip south in Morocco.
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| Trying out some landsailing tricks in Tarifa. |