Almadraba Tuna Route: A Unique Gastronomic Experience on the Costa de la Luz

What is almadraba?

The almadraba (trawl) is a sustainable fishing technique used for over 3,000 years in the Strait of Gibraltar. It is a fixed-net system that takes advantage of the migration of bluefin tuna from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.

• Environmentally friendly method , only the necessary specimens are captured without harming the species.
• Top-quality tuna , its meat is rich in Omega-3 and has an exceptional texture and flavor.
• Historical technique : It is still practiced in towns such as Conil, Tarifa, Barbate and Zahara de los Atunes .

When is almadraba season? Between April and June, when the tuna pass along the Cadiz coast on their migratory journey.

1. The best stops on the Tuna Route

Every spring, the Tuna Route takes place in various towns along the Costa de la Luz, where bars and restaurants compete to offer the best tapas and dishes featuring this star product. Here are some must-see stops:

1. Conil de la Frontera: tuna in all its forms

Where to go:

• La Fontanilla : Specializing in tuna with onions and tuna tataki .
• El Roqueo : Try the grilled tuna with salmorejo .
• Feduchy : Pickled tuna with modern touches.

Don't miss : The Conil Tuna Fair , where you can try creative tapas and learn about the history of almadraba fishing.

2. Barbate: the heart of the almadraba

Where to go:

• El Campero : A benchmark for bluefin tuna, with more than 20 ways to prepare it .
• Abelardo's Tavern : Tuna in butter and almadraba sushi .
• La Peña del Atún : Traditional dishes with tuna in various cooking methods.

Don't miss : A visit to the salting and canning factories , where you'll learn how tuna jerky and tuna loin are made.

3. Zahara de los Atunes: flavor and tradition

Where to go:

• Antonio : Charcoal-grilled tuna with a spectacular smoky touch.
• Casa Juanito : Famous for its Cádiz-style tuna with onions .
• El Campero Tavern : A more informal concept with innovative tapas.

Don't miss : The Zahara Tuna Route , where restaurants create exclusive recipes during May and June.

4. Tarifa: fusion of tradition and modernity

Where to go:

• The Anchor : Tuna tataki with sesame and soy.
• El Lola : Grilled bluefin tuna with Cadiz potatoes.
• Surla : A different touch with fresh tuna poke bowls .

Don't miss : A whale-watching experience before a delicious meal overlooking the Atlantic.

3. How to enjoy tuna at TAIGA Tarifa and TAIGA Conil

If you are staying at TAIGA Tarifa or TAIGA Conil , you can enjoy almadraba tuna in many ways:

• Cook it on the campsite barbecue : Buy a fresh tuna belly and grill it with a little salt and olive oil.
• Order from nearby restaurants : Check which restaurants are participating in the Tuna Route.
• Bring back canned tuna from the almadraba as a souvenir : Barbate mojama is a must.

4. Experience the Tuna Route on the Costa de la Luz

The Almadraba Tuna Route is much more than a gastronomic experience: it's a tribute to Cádiz's fishing tradition and an opportunity to enjoy one of the world's most prized products.

If you visit TAIGA Tarifa or TAIGA Conil , you can't miss this unique opportunity to taste authentic almadraba bluefin tuna.

Ready for an unforgettable culinary experience? Tuna awaits you on the Costa de la Luz!