'A touch of true Andalucia awaits you in this picturesque resort - complete with palm-fringed streets and beaches.'
If you were to land in Nerja not knowing it's on the Costa Del Sol, you might be surprised. Because unlike much of this famously tourist-focused coast, it's managed to retain every scrap of its Spanish charm. Perched on cliffs and backed by the dusky Sierra Almijara mountains, its feel is distinctly home-grown. In its old quarter, whitewashed, pan-tiled houses and shops border twisting lanes. Locals settle in pavement cafes to sip on their morning cafe con leche. And horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along cobbled streets.
Yet the nerve centre of Nerja lies elsewhere: on the charming Balcon de Europa. Flanked by lush palms, this picturesque promenade ends in a spectacular viewpoint. Stroll here at sunset and soak up the sweeping views of the coast. Then retrace your steps, stopping for an ice-cold wine and delicious paella at one of the al-fresco eateries along the way.
When it's time for the beach, take your pick. Fun-wise, the popular Playa de Burriana - its amber sands skirted with bars and watersports including boat cruises - will probably win the day. Or for a quieter atmosphere, try any of the other sand-and-shingle beaches tucked into the rocky cliffs.
The beaches aren't Nerja's only natural gem either. Whatever you do, find time to marvel at the town's cave system. These prehistoric, cathedral-like caverns feature incredible stalagmites and stalactites, as well as ancient wall paintings. And don't miss the stunning inland village of Frigiliana, a jumble of sugar-cube houses and cobbled streets tumbling down a pretty hillside. For an utterly Spanish experience, this place is hard to beat.
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Nerja hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Nerja include Capistrano Village Apartments, Costa Del Sol Villa Collection, Hotel Balcon De Europa, Hotel Nerja Club, Hotel Plaza Cavana, Hotel Riu Monica, Hotel Villa Flamenca, Villa Las Dalias and Villa Las Palomas.
More Costa Del Sol holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Costa Del Sol? Our Costa Del Sol holiday destinations include Benalmadena, Benalmadena Pueblo, Calahonda, Estepona, Frigiliana, Fuengirola, Marbella, Mijas Costa, Nerja, Ojen, Puerto Banus, San Pedro De Alcantara, Torremolinos and Torrox.
Beaches
There are several beaches in Nerja - Burriana beach, which is lined by an attractive promenade, is the biggest and most popular. All have sand and pebble swathes, excellent cafes and stunning views. It's easy to spend an entire day hopping from beach to beach, swimming in clear, warm waters and eating delicious paella washed down with icy, soft drinks.
Eating out
Try one of the many cafes, bars or intimate restaurants in Nerja. The resort caters for most tastes, from Italian to Chinese, however try to search out the local bars and have some fun experimenting with the Andalucian tapas. Components typically include squid rings, tomato flavoured meatballs, spicy chorizo sausage, Spanish omelette and juicy, stuffed olives - a delicious mix of flavours.
Nightlife
Nerja's nightlife is geared to gourmets rather than clubbers. However evenings have a vibrant feel with the streets and cliff top busy with people taking in the relaxed atmosphere. There are a couple of lively discos to be found if you really need to let your hair down.
Shopping
Nerja has a distinctly traditional ambience and boasts little white-washed streets that shelter shops selling leather, jewellery and pottery.
Local information
Not far from Nerja lies a gigantic cave system - reputed to be the second largest in Europe. With cathedral-like rooms and wall paintings believed to be 20,000 years old, the caves make for a particularly interesting day out. One of the vast caverns has been converted into an auditorium - if you're lucky enough to be in Nerja during a concert, you'll be witness to an unforgettable occasion. Inland, the quaint village of Frigiliana provides a nice contrast to life on the beach with its traditional whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. If you want to explore further afield, Granada is a spectacular destination with the Alhambra Palace as its impressive focal point.
Location
55km east of Malaga
Transfer time
1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
Recommended
