It’s hardly a secret that Spain is a sunny destination renowned for its delicious food, vibrant culture, and world-class beaches. Every year, tens of millions of tourists travel to the country, making it one of the most visited countries in the world. Among the hordes of tourists, UK holidaymakers can often be found visiting one of the many beautiful destinations Spain offerslike Barcelona, Seville – and even Benidorm.
While Spain provides plenty of spots that make the ultimate holiday setting – whether it be for a quick city break, or a longer stay by the beach, there are some regions that aren’t as favourable, with one in particular being slammed as “ugly”.
In Spain’s southern province of Cadiz, La Linea is a seaside town that at the border of Spain and Gibraltar. The town boasts several beaches that are great for swimming and water sports.
However, unlike Spain’s other seaside towns which come with sandy stretches, clear waters, and stunning views, there’s one thing that La Linea misses out on.
La Linea’s location does not do it any favours – a huge rock, high-rise tower blocks, and the Iberian penisula’s largest oil refinery are just a few of the things that make up the views from a La Linea beach.
According to the The Telegraph, La Linea has been named one of the ugliest towns in Europe, despite its “wide sandy beaches.”
Unfortunately, those who choose to spend at the seaside spots will have to endure a horizion of oil tankers across the Bay of Gibraltar, which doesn’t exactly scream “relaxing day at the beach”.
Not only that, but the town also has a long history full of crime and violence, which has given La Linea the reputation of Spain’s “crime capital”.
Last year, two police officers were killed by drug traffickers in the southern region. Those involved in the illegal activites typically use speedboats to transport up to 3,000 kilograms of drugs from Morocco.
According to Manuel Morenete, a lawyer who has represented suspected traffickers, many of these gangs are led by “younger people” who “have different rules or no rules”.
La Linea has been judged for many years with residents saying they are “tired of the bad reputation”, and the local council are on a mission to change the perspective of the town.
A Commercial Centre project was recently approved, with mayor Juan Franco saying the investment is important for the area and could be transformed by it.
The £16 million construction will feature shops, supermarkets, cafes, restaurants and a gym.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
