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Nerja

The small fishing village Nerja is now the biggest resort to the east of Malaga in the area known as the Axarquia and has an official population of around 20,000 — a fifth of which are foreign residents, including around 2,000 British — although the true expatriate population is probably twice that. In the summer months, tourism swells the population several times more.

Nerja has managed to avoid the worst effects of unrestrained expansion and high rise hotels. There are still plenty of bars and nightclubs for those wanting to party the night away, however the old centre of the town has retained some of its original charm.

In the old quarter of Nerja typical small shops offer local craftworks and products of the area, including the sweet wine and olive oil, honey and tropical fruits. At the beach and fish restaurants you can enjoy the “pescaito frito” (fried fish), whilst the many international restaurants in town offer a wide variety of menus to suit all tastes

The historic centre begins in the Balcon de Europa (Balcony of Europe), which was constructed around 1487. A former 9th century castle, it is now a view point above the sea. To the side of the Balcon, you will find the 17th century El Salvador church, constructed in baroqueo madejar style. You may also visit the 16th century Nuestra Senora de las Angustias Hermitage with its paintings by the master Alonso Vano.

Nerja retains its traditional festivals: There are a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. Of particular note it the acclaimed “Nerja Caves Festival”, which takes place amongst stalactites, which were formed over millions of years.

Nerja has several fine beaches set in charming coves beneath cliffs and one of the best climates in Europe. It is a great base for exploring the region and enjoying its unique food and drink.

Nerja is also becoming a significant centre for walkers intent on exploring and enjoying the dramatic mountains and ravines of the Sierras Almijara and Tejeda, two of the less well known, but truly inspiring, mountain leisure areas in western Europe.

Las Cuevas de Nerja

Nerja is probably most famous for its caves which lie some 3 km inland. They were discovered in 1959 by some boys chasing bats. They discovered the entrance to a huge system of limestone caverns.

The caves are protected and well preserved with many oparts still closed to the public including areas with prehistoric paintings of animals and human figures. It is estimated, that the Nerja caves were inhabited between 20.000 BC and 1.800 BC.

Visitors are treated to a series of well lit chambers and displays of archeological finds:

• Undergound caverns with stalagmites, stalagtites & columns
• The world's widest column
• Grand centre column in the Sala del Cataclismo (Cataclysm Hall) reaches a height of 32 metres
• Karstic cavities formed by erosion of marble by water
• Palaeolithic wall paintings
• Restaurant
• Museum

These are breathtaking beautiful caves, some of the best in Europe, that should not be missed if the opportunity arises.

Each July a festival of flamenco music and dance is held inside the caves

It is possible to explore some of the chambers and caverns not yet open to the public by joining a speleological group, consisting of a maximum 10 people over the age of 14. No special physical skills are necessary.

Scientists investigating cave fauna have recently discovered species that were thought to be extinct in the caves. Amongst these, in areas not open to the public, are scarab beetles and blind scorpions. Alberto Atinavt, department head at the University of Granada, is carrying out studies on the interior and exterior micro fauna of the cave.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 10.00-14.00 and 16.00-18.30