Nerja
Whilst retaining much of its' old charm and character of a former fishing village, NERJA has become one of the most popular unspoilt typically-Spanish resorts east of Malaga on the Costa del Sol. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Almijara mountain range, Nerja has preserved its traditional Andalucian construction of low rise white-washed villas and apartments sheltered from the breathtaking backdrop of the mountains. NERJA benefits from numerous beaches and coves and yet is just 45 minutes from Malaga Airport and 90 minutes from the Sierra Nevada ski resort; the most Southerly in Europe. Whether it be swimming in the Mediterranean, wandering through the narrow cobbled streets and enjoying the delightful Andalusian squares or visiting the picturesque villages of Frigiliana and Competa, you are sure to enjoy the peace and tranquility on offer.
Attractions nearby include the Cueva de Nerja (caves) and the famous Balcon de Europa in the centre of Town over-hanging two pretty bays. Nerja has managed to retain a very laidback atmosphere; the attractive streets and pleasant ambiance make a return trip a must!
The central focus of the Town is the Balcon de Europa, a wonderful promenade dotted with palm trees jutting out into the sea. It was named by King Alfonso XII in 1885 who enjoyed the splendid views.
Nerja offers several small coved beaches tucked below the cliffs, as well as the popular beach at Burriana. The winding, narrow streets of the white washed old town are fun to explore.
To the East of Nerja you will find the Cuevas de Nerja; grotto-like chambers with their stalactite formations one of which is 61 metres and reputedly the world's longest specimen. You will also see many paleolithic cave paintings. Further East of Nerja you will find Maro, La Herradura, Marina del Este, Almunecar and Salobrena.
Just a few kilometres to the North of Nerja, a visit to the small town of Frigiliana is a must. The history of Frigiliana dates from prehistoric times. The village has been inhabited by numerous civilisations from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Arabs, who had the greatest impact on the town's development. During the Christian reconquest, Frigiliana was the site of numerous battles culminating in the famous battle of the Roch of Frigiliana in 1569 which ended in the complete expulsion of the Moorish people. One can learn the history of this struggle by walking through the streets of the historic section where there are a series of twelve ceramic plaques posted about which explain the entire story.
Click map for larger printable version