4.000 km of sea coastline and even more of inland waters put Spain in a privileged position to offer fun boarding variety, adventure and full enjoyment. The distinctively different areas and characteristics of our waters and winds provide variety and adventure. Full enjoyment is guaranteed by the unrivalled facilities of Spanish resorts.
ENJOY FUN BOARDING IN SPAIN
Windsurfing in Spain is easy. Boards and sails are considered "beach artefacts" meaning that no registration or permits are required for boards under 5 meters. The only practical advice is that boarders should acquire third party insurance that provides cover for up to about �120.000 (30 million Pesetas).
Windsurfing may be restricted in some beaches and is often prohibited within 500 m of bathing areas; however, buoys are often used to signal this. Nevertheless, the local windsurf schools or police will offer advice on the possible limitations to windsurfing in any particular beach.
There are numerous schools and clubs to join if you wish, however this is not normally a requirement for the hire of equipment or to obtain information on safety recommendations, nor even to make use of their launching drives in those beaches where restrictions apply.
Above all, remember that sailing may always be dangerous. Precautions should be taken, especially if you are sailing somewhere for the first time. Use your common sense and always discuss daily conditions with local surfers. Then, �Go for it! Pirouettes, donkey kicks, body drags, killer loops, bottom turns, helicopter tacks... only your own skills will be the limit.
VARIETY IS THE WORD
ANDALUC�A
The whole Andalucian coastline combines the greatest number of ideal conditions for the satisfactory practice of the sport, but especially the C�diz -Tarifa is the Mecca for European fun boarders- Almer�a and Huelva areas. The wind is strong and sustained, and the surf is characteristic of the Atlantic with long and spaced out waves. Absolute beginners or seasoned boarders will find a perfect spot in this area.
THE MEDITERRANEAN COAST, INCLUDING THE BALEARIC ISLANDS
The wind relates to thermal currents and the waves are shorter and come in series of three and four followed by a larger one. Transparent, crystalline waters welcome all levels of boarders.
GALICIA
The Atlantic coast is rather a complicated area, best suited for true experts of the board as winds may be strong and the seas heavy. Beginners, however, will find refuge in the estuaries, which are wide and free from the currents and traffic of the open ocean.
THE CANTABRIAN AREA
Strong currents are predominant along this stretch of coast and therefore it is advisable always to check with the locals regarding the safety of conditions at any given time. The numerous bays and inlets allow beginners to practise the sport safely without venturing into the open sea.
THE CANARY ISLANDS
Like Andaluc�a, The Canary Islands are a true paradise for wind surfers. The Alisios trade winds that carried Christopher Columbus to the Americas and the surf are both characteristic of the Atlantic Ocean.
CONTINENTAL WATERS
From north to south, east to west, inland Spain is dotted with reservoirs and lakes where wind surfers take advantage of the winds, whether thermal or strong. The Madrid area, with numerous resorvoirs, the Ebro dam in Palencia, La Sotonera in Arag�n and the Casares and Barrios de Luna in Le�n are some of the most frequented. Large sails and boards are the most common in these waters. The schools and clubs located on these shores ensure that there is always a lively atmospere or "movida" as the Spanish say.
FURTHER INFORMATION
The territorial federations of the Spanish Windsurf Association will supply full information on facilities and the best surfing spots. When dialling from the UK, 0034 should precede telephone and fax numbers
FEDERATION
TELEPHONE
FAX
Andaluc�a 956 85 4813
956 874805
Arag�n 976 73 0995
976 73 0608
Asturias 985 345476
985 34 5476
Canarias 928 23 4769
928 242468
Cantabria 942 21 5637
942 21 5637
Castilla la Mancha 949 220213
949 22 1062
Castilla Le�n 987 23 2675
987 23 2675
Catalu�a 93 203 3800
93 205 7320
Valencia 96 353 0120
96 353 4331
Extremadura 927 14 7256
927 14 7256
Galicia 986 23 7116
98620 0110
Madrid 91 323 0425
91 323 0425
Murcia 968 50 3628
968 505643
Navarra 948 22 8577
948 22 8577
Pa�s Vasco 943 45 3767
943 45 3767
Ceuta 956 51 8348
Melilla 952 67 3404
952 67 3404
