34 | SPAIN’S COASTAL CHARM


Spotlight: Te Hilltop Village of Frigiliana


JUST a short drive from Nerja, I visited the hidden village of Frigiliana, described as one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia. In contrast to the coastal hustle and bustle, Frigiliana felt calm and timeless. Its cobbled streets wound through whitewashed houses decorated with bright flowers, with high points giving me the chance to see exceptional views of the sea below. Walking through the village


felt


like stepping into a postcard or a book.


traditional buildings and mountains behind made it a nice contrast to the lively coastline. Returning to Nerja after visiting Frigiliana highlighted just how varied the country of Malaga is. All in one trip, it was possible to experience views of the mediterranean sea from some of Nerja’s highest points,


explore


vast underground caves, and wander through a historic and hilltop village.


efore visiting Nerja in Malaga, I thought it would be another sea side town in Spain- just like the others; somewhere to soak up the Spanish sun and eat good food, but Nerja is actually much


B The quiet atmosphere,


www.nitravelnews.com


March 2026


Exploring Nerja’s Coastal Charm


BY CARA THOMPSON cara@nitravelnews.com


more than that. I found it a place that emulated calm paired views I couldn’t stop looking at and of course the food and history. It was clear that Nerja was more than just


another seaside destination, it was a place


where


history and atmosphere meet. There are so many hidden pockets throughout this


scenery,


something quick to eat while exploring! I visited a lovely quaint restaurant ‘Pinocchio’


called where they


served fresh pasta and pizzas. This restaurant offered a friendly and lively atmosphere and the food was delicious. I also regularly visited streetside shops and markets throughout the winding streets of local businesses


selling


souvenirs, jewellery, and clothes. Local bars and restaurants would be lined up all leading down to the Balcon de Europe and fresh Gelato ice cream was served while soaking in the views. One morning I woke at 5:30am, got dressed and walked down to the centre of Nerja where I had an early breakfast in a local cafe, enjoying the balcony with views of the sea, followed by a walk along the Balcon de Europe watching the sun rise. A morning to remember!


town that capture traditional Spanish life and tourists that visit, experience just that. Located in Spain’s Costa Del Sol,


the


town of Nerja offers a slower and more traditional


feel than Nerja Caves


VISITING Nerja caves was a highlight of my visit, an opportunity to explore a historical homage dating back to the bronze age and was used as a shelter and artistic space for people of the time. Around 220ft in height and stretching to around 4,200ft in width it is like transporting to a different world. It was mesmerising, the sheer size of the stalactite formations that began to form almost 5 million years ago. Looking around, you can see the artwork that had been etched into the caverns that are thought to be the earliest form of communication from humans through artwork. The Nerja Caves are home to the largest collection of cave art in the world. This was a memorable experience during my time in


some of Malaga’s larger, more central cities. Its winding streets,


cafés


and beautiful views of the coast of Spain, create a setting that feels lively and relaxed. One of the most well- known


features of


Nerja is the Balcón de Europa; a huge semi- circle


balcony panoramic views


with of


the mediterranean sea and where you will find lots of tourists taking photos while enjoying


the


Malaga and gave me insight into a touch of history of the town. While visiting


Nerja, there was a wide variety of food options all very close to where I was staying. The town is most known for their fresh variety of seafood and tapas and this was evident when walking through the streets there was a variety of tapas bars offering free tapas with your drinks.


Something


that came in handy when looking for


By the end of my holiday, Nerja had left a lasting impression on me not only as a beach destination, but a place full of contrasts, scenery and character. It is the kind of town that invites visitors to slow down, look around, and remember why simple holidays are important too.


views.


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