Nerja is a charming fishing town located on the Costa del Sol, east of Malaga. It is getting more and more popular every day, but still, it kept its traditional charm. Nerja is a coastal town but besides beach, sun and sea but there are many more things to do in Nerja such has having fun in its water park or hiking trails which will give you amazing views of its surroundings.
The best things to do in Nerja
Today we will show you why you should include a visit to Nerja in your next holiday, or perhaps as the only place you are going to visit this summer? These are the best things to do in Nerja.
Visit the Balcón de Europa
The Balcón de Europa became the most important activity of the city. The name of Balcony is attributed to King Alfonso XIII, once he visited this place he said: This is the Balcón de Europa! Before it was a fort to protect the city from pirate attacks. Today the Balcony is full of innumerable bars, restaurants and ice cream parlours. It is located near the popular Burriana Beach, and also the picturesque village of Maro.
Explore the Cuevas de Nerja
One of the most important things to do in Nerja is visiting the Cuevas de Nerja. These impressive caves are situated a few kilometres from the centre of Nerja, actually it’s located within the aforementioned village of Maro. This limestone cave has a length of more than 4 km and an area of about 35,000 m2. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the world’s longest and largest stalactite, with a length of 33 metres! The caves were discovered by 5 Spaniards who were searching for bats in 1959. The following years they discovered that the cave was much bigger and they found more galleries. It is a heritage of cultural interest since 1985 and cannot be missed during your visit to Nerja. Discover more about the Cueves de Nerja here.
Discover the old town
Since Nerja became less popular than the the west coast of Malaga, you will not see high building rising above the sea, no. On the contrary you can get lost in the narrow streets of the old town with its whitewashed houses.
Relax on more than 15 beaches
The most popular beaches of Nerja, which are very lively and wide, are Burriana Beach and Torrecilla Beach. They both have a promenade and are filled with characteristic fishing boats. Even better, on Burriana Beach the beach bars start preparing the best paellas and sardines in the afternoon. If this isn’t living the Spanish cultures at its fullest… The best rated beach bar on Burriana Beach is “Chiringuito Ayo”, known for their famous and above all, delicious paellas. In addition, there are many water sports practised on this beach. For example, from Burriana Beach you can make a kayak route to the village of Maro where you’ll be surprised by a stunning landscape.
Besides that, the municipality of Nerja has many virgin coves where you can have a relaxing beach day such as Maro Beach, Los Chorrillos Beach or La Caleta de Maro Beach.
Admire the Aquaduct del Águila
When visiting the Cuevas de Nerja, don’t forget to look around you when walking to this place because you will also pass the Aquaduct del Águila, also called “Eagle-Bridge”. This 40 metres high structure in the Múdejar style was built in the 19th century to transport water to the nearby sugar factory.
Explore the Natural Parks of Nerja
Nerja is surrounded by two natural parks: Parque Natural Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama and the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo. The first one is the perfect place for hiking and immersing yourself in nature, and the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo offer amazing views of the mountains, beaches and adjoining coves.
Even though Nerja isn’t the most popular holiday resort of Spain, it does have many things to offer: nature, sports, beach, history… and even better that it has kept its fishing charm. Do you love Spain and especially the places where you can do stuff but also enjoy your holidays between the Spaniards, then come and spend your next vacation in Nerja!