Nerja is a small Spanish town situated at the eastern end of the Costa del Sol, or the Sunshine Coast of Spain, about 50 kms from Malaga. The Sierra de Almijara mountains rise dramatically behind Nerja giving impressive views from most parts of the town.
Although there is plenty for tourists to do in Nerja it has not been as subject to the major transformations from small village to large tourist city as have some of its neighbours on the Costa del Sol. It still retains some of its original white houses and the local fishing boats still grace the harbour.
The focal point of the town is a man-made promontory called the Balcon de Europa, a long promenade reaching out into the sea from the town centre. It was originally built as a protection against pirates and other marauders. It has a more peaceful role today as a pleasant promenade on which to stroll while being entertained by street musicians and watching the many artists at work.
It is also lined with cafes and restaurants. At its furthermost end there are views up and down the coast and of the Sierra de Almijara mountains inland.
Anyone who is familiar with the Spanish TV series Verano Azul, (Blue Summer), will be interested to see a replica of the fishing boat from the series which is on view in the Parque Verano Azul.
The beaches at Nerja are a grey colour rather than the golden sand found on other beaches in the area but they have excellent facilities for water sports and fun for children. Burriana Beach in particular has won several awards for facilities and is a popular base for scuba diving.
Children will enjoy two quaint ways to explore the town. The first is by an old fashioned horse drawn carriage, which takes around 30 minutes to tour the area. The second is by way of the Tourist Train. This is a road train which has the shape of an old steam train.
There are lots to do in the evenings at Nerja. Most of the night life is centred on the Plaza Tutti Frutti which is pedestrianised and surrounded by bars and clubs.
