Holidays in Nerja, Costa del Sol, Andalucia, Spain

Nerja is set upon the impressive backdrop of the towering Sierra Almijara Mountains. A man made promontory, the Balcon de Europa, where once a great Muslim fortress lay. Now it offers a great view of the coves, beaches and the Mediterranean Sea which will give you a preternatural expectation of your visit here. One of the most significant sites to visit besides the fine sanded beaches and coves are the caves of Nerja. The discovery of these dates back the area to Paleolithic times. Our human predecessors were known to live in here and handcrafted illustrations were painted on the walls depicting everyday life. Besides finding hunting tools, there was also evidence of farming and pottery, and even parts of the caves were used as burial chambers. Today these caves are one of Spain's greatest tourist attractions and they are even used to hold concerts with the natural cave habitat forming a natural amphitheatre.

Nerja has a dozen beaches but the two most well known are the urban beaches of Torrecilla and Burriana. These are well maintained with hygiene such as showers and toilets, provision such as parasols and loungers and enabled access for the disabled. There are also other beaches that can provide a sanctuary for those who want to bathe in a quieter or more secluded place. The average annual temperatures are approximately 20°C, with temperatures in the late 30's in the summer. Winters are usually mild. The preferred season of the year is autumn, the temperatures are warm enough but not baking, and the sea has heated up enough to enjoy a swim. At the main beaches there are also many bars and restaurants nearby to stave off the thirst of the heat.

Or you can take to the water to try a little sailing or water skiing or take to the coves and the shallows to sample some of the seabed's richness by scuba diving. There is also an outdoor activity centre nearby that features a host of more water sports, mountain activities such as climbing, abseiling and parascending as well as mounted recreation such as biking and horse riding. The Natural Park of Acantilados de Maro is worth a visit too. It is a natural park that runs to the sea and offers a diversity of nature set in beautiful surroundings.

The nearest airport is Malaga about 45 minutes drive away. It is well serviced with different types of transfer to get you to your final destination. The typical transfers of the shuttle services or the flexible car hire which should be booked in advance. There are also the faithful taxis that stand await, though depending on the time of day or time of year may thin out. For those who have not booked a car there are also the rental desks at the airport but be sure to arrive at opening times.



The Author, Phil Hanlon, writes for Holiday Home Rentals who have a selection of Apartments in Nerja and Villas in Nerja which can be rented direct from their owners.