Nerja is a small town nestled between the gentle foothills of the Sierra Almijara Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Perched on the top of small cliffs with panoramic views in both directions, the town still retains its intimate Moorish street plan centered around the Balcón de Europa.

Luckily tourism has not spoilt this part of Spain, with its narrow cobbled streets full of quaint shops and characteristic tapas bars where one can take a drink and try out some of the local specialities. Though still an andaluz community of character, throughout the year, Nerja welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Nerja town boasts no less than 7 beaches some of which can be seen from the lovely coastal path walkway which starts from the fisherman beach Calahonda, in the east side of the Balcón de Europa, and meanders its way through palm trees and cliffs to the famous Burriana, giving you a chance to sample all the coves and inlets along its route.

History

The name Nerja actually comes from the Moorish name for the town Naricha. The town started in the 10th Century as a Moorish farming community with also a flourishing industry in silk weaving. Twenty thousand years ago it was inhabited by the Paleolithic man and evidence of this can be found by visiting the cave at Maro.

Travelling in an easterly direction from Nerja approximately 2km along the main road, you will come to what is claimed to be a Roman Aqueduct.

The truth is uncertain as it is believed to have only been built at the beginning of the 19th century to carry water to the village of Maro, but built in the Roman style. It is now used to irrigate the farm lands surrounding the village of Maro.

Where to Go

Alhama de Granada

An ancient town set on a huge gorge. On the outskirts of the town there are hot springs rumoured to have medicinal properties.

Almuñecar

Town situated on the 'Costa Tropical', highlights include Castillo San Miguel, a bird park and the archeological museum.

Competa

Pretty white village in the hills. Very popular with foreign residents.

Frigiliana

Beautifully conserved white village with characteristic Moorish architecture, cobbled streets and pretty flower pots.

Granada & the Alhambra

A beautiful city and the world famous Alhambra is a must for day trippers.

La Herradura

One of the prettiest bays along this part of the coast.

Lake Vinuela

A beautiful natural park and popular with anglers. Becoming a very popular place for property purchasers who want something a bit more rural.

Marina del Este

The Eastern Costa del Sol's answer to Puerto Banus.

Sierra Nevada

Ski resort situated by Granada and just 90 minutes drive from Nerja.

Ronda

A town situated in the Sierras, has been described as one of the most romantic towns in Andalucia.

Sierra of Nerja

The most eastern part of the Sierra Almijara, with over 7,000 hectares of natural land and wildlife.

Vélez Málaga

The capital of Axarquia, has a water park and shopping.