Välkommen till Nerja
A classic Spanish seaside resort, Nerja is a town with much to discover. Hidden coves, unspoiled streets and ancient hideaways, this is a little different from the rest of the Costa del Sol.
Step out onto the Balcón de Europa (the ‘balcony of Europe’) at sunset and you will discover perhaps the greatest view in the Costa del Sol, a stunning panorama of cobalt-blue sea, a multitude of beaches and coves below with the jaw dropping Sierra Almijara mountains rising to the east. Small wonder that so many people fall in love with beautiful Nerja.
Unlike many of the region’s former fishing villages, Nerja has kept its charm and a strong sense of what attracted people in the first place. You won’t find too many concrete high rises here. In the old town the winding streets are filled with flowers tumbling from iron balconies on pretty whitewashed houses which remain virtually unchanged.
Make your way down to the coast and explore delightful honey coloured coves and small sandy beaches. Head out of town and you’ll find one of the world’s most extraordinary ancient cave systems, lined with Palaeolithic cave paintings and thought to be one of most extensive underground networks in Europe.
Plats
Community
Nerja has expanded via a series of urbanisations to accommodate 21,000 people, a third of whom are from abroad. The town maintains a local atmosphere, with a friendly ‘Andaluz’ feel, which is especially lively on market days and Fiestas.
Property
Nerja has three parts; the old town with older, traditional houses; new developments with larger villas and bungalows on the outskirts and Burriana with views of the sea along a wide sandy beach. There are also spacious apartments to be found with enviable views near the Balcón de Europa.
Amenities
Make your way to the main square, Plaza de España, to find a multitude of boutiques and eateries. Nerja has all the usual Spanish supermarkets as well as some shops stocking English brands. For exercise, the town has an excellent stadium with tennis courts and swimming pool. And you’ll find all the usual water-based activities down by the coast.
Transport
Although not part of the wider region’s transport network, Nerja has its own regular bus routes that will get you to Malaga and to the surrounding towns and villages including Frigiliana, Almuñécar and as far afield as Granada, Córdoba and Seville. The nearest airport is an hour away by road in Malaga.
Health
The main public health medical centre is on the road into Nerja, with an emergency room open 24/7. If you have a more serious need, then the nearest fully equipped hospital is half an hour away in Velez Malaga.
Cost of Living
You’ll find it possible to live very reasonably in Nerja. The large variety of shops, cafes and restaurants mean that even on a modest budget you’ll be able to enjoy going out regularly – and it’s certainly a cheaper option than some of the more famous resorts west of Malaga.