Frigiliana
An easy 2km walk away is the historic village of Frigiliana which is known for its Moorish old quarter and narrow streets decorated with ceramic mosaics. Frigiliana was declared one of Spain’s ‘Seven Rural Wonders’. It is also a member of ‘The Most Beautiful Towns of Spain’ association.
Frigiliana is surrounded by the National Park area of Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama which provides many hiking trails to suit all abilities.
There are also quad bike, horse trekking, Segway, canyoning and many other tours nearby.
Frigiliana is becoming increasingly famous for its ‘Festival of Three Cultures’ which is an annual event celebrating the historic co-existence of Christian, Jewish and Muslim traditions. During the last weekend in August, the streets are lined with stalls selling food, clothes and local produce, and the village erupts with street performers and live bands.
Nerja
Nerja is 5 kms away and can be reached by car, by bus or, for the adventurous, by foot. It is a bustling, yet unspoilt, seaside town with many beaches, shops, markets, bars and restaurants
Nerja has succeeded in rebuffing developers, allowing its centre to retain a low-rise village charm.
There are many beaches in and around Nerja. From the nudist beach, Playa Cantarriján, to the jet skis, inflatables and banana boat rides at Burriana Beach, there is something for everyone!
There are plenty of dining options in Nerja, many serving fresh fish caught daily. For the night owls, Nerja has a lively nightlife centred around the Tutti Frutti area where bars and clubs are open until the early hours. Nerja is a 10-minute taxi ride away and taxis operate 24 hours a day.
The Nerja Caves which are four km-long and 35 km-wide, have a fascinating history. The most striking feature of these limestone caves is undoubtedly the world’s longest and largest stalactite.
At the heart of Nerja is the perennially beautiful Balcón de Europa, a palm-lined promontory built on the foundations of an old fort that offers panoramic views of the cobalt-blue sea. The Balcon bursts with life at sunset as street performers, musicians and artists entertain the tourists.
It takes 45 minutes by car to reach the city of Malaga which is loaded with history and brimming with youthful vigour and decadent shopping malls. Just over an hour’s drive, is Granada which is famous for The Alhambra (above) - an ancient hill top fortress.
Córdoba is just over a two-hour drive and is renowned for the peaceful coexistence of the three cultures - Jews, Muslims and Christians. It is home to Mezquita (above), which is not only the largest mosque, but the largest temple, in the world.
Two and a half hours drive away is Seville, which is the birthplace of Flamenco dancing, and is seeped in culture, monuments and tradition. It has been described as a ‘Mini Barcelona’.