Sandy coves, inviting blue waters, beautiful sunsets, delicious tapas by the beach, promenades lined with palm trees and white-washed townhouses – Nerja will definitely sweep you off your feet. Situated about 50 km east of Málaga, Nerja is often referred to as ‘The Jewel of the Costa de Sol’. Aren’t you curious why so many people fall in love with this small fishing and agricultural village? Keep reading till the end and discover why you should treat yourself to a wonderful trip to Nerja, Spain.
1. Unforgettable Trip to Nerja: Wander around Nerja’s Historic Centre
Do you want to get back to good old-fashioned Spanish roots and discover the true essence of the once sleepy fishing village? Then you must discover the beautiful historic centre. There are famous landmarks like the El Salvador Church, a church dating to 1505 and built under the orders of Joanna the Mad, and the Hermitage of the Virgen de las Angustias, which is from the 16th century and filled with gorgeous paintings by Alonso Cano. If you need to rest your feet a little bit, there are plenty of inviting restaurants and coffee shops where you can refresh yourself.
No matter where you end up in the historic centre, you simply cannot go wrong!
2. Look out at the Mediterranean Sea from the Balcony of Europe
A little bit of background
El Balcón de Europa, the Balcony of Europe, is undoubtedly the most-visited and most photographed point in Nerja. In fact, this spot has a long history. Originally a fortress stood here, called the Castle bass of Nerja and which got destroyed in 1812 during the Guerra of Independence. Then in 1884, a big earthquake hit Nerja, hence King Alfonso XII decided to visit in person and check its conditions. It was him who named the spot declaring: “This is the Balcony of Europe“.
It is a beautiful vantage point from where you can enjoy an exceptional view over the entire coastline of Nerja. The Balcony of Europe is a symbol of Nerja and definitely a must-see.
3. Trip to Nerja: Explore Nerja Caves
An underground wonder world opens up for you
Located 3km north of the town of Nerja, this 5 million-year-old cave spanning for meters and meters underground is simply unmissable. As a matter of fact, tt is one of the main attractions of the area, for a good reason.
Discovered in 1959 and boasting some considerable claims to fame, like a 32-metre-high stalactite, no visit to the municipality is complete without a wander through these spectacular caverns. There is also a theatre inside the caves where they hold the annual Nerja Caves Festival. So if you happen to visit Nerja in June, be sure to buy your tickets for this amazing experience!
4. Stroll along Nerja’s Beaches
Nerja is proud to have 16 km of coastline, twelve of which comprise beaches and coves with excellent bathing conditions. Moreover, the biggest and best-known one is Burriana. People say it is one of the best beaches in Spain! One thing that you cannot miss while at Playa de Burriana is trying paella from Ayos. This beachside restaurant has been around since 1969, and is open every single day of the year. Their paella is always prepared fresh and it is made over a wood fire for the ultimate delicious smoky flavor.
If you crave a bit more privacy, go to Playa El Salón. It is just beneath the Balcony of Europe. Why is this beach special? Well, here you can get a taste of the local lifestyle as at dawn fishing boats are coming back and locals flock in to enjoy the sunset. Just relax and watch the sun dive under the horizon.
5. Trip to Nerja: Head to the Eagle Aqueduct
Have a look at a majestic waterworks
Not only is Nerja known for some of the most stunning nature in all of Spain, but it also holds a deep history that has plenty to offer to those who are interested. In this case, we are talking about is a red brick structure, often referred to as “a historic jewel of Spanish architecture”. Dating back to the 19th century, spanning 4 storeys of superimposed arches, it was constructed in the 1800s at the peak of the industrial revolution. Surprisingly, it is still fully functional today. Local dwellers use it to irrigate their farmland.
It is a fun afternoon activity if you want to get out of the city for a bit and want to get a little taste of history.
Before you go, check out the official website of the Nerja Caves here!
Are you looking for other places to discover? Here’s our blog post about Free things to do in Málaga!
