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Nerja is north of Málaga, approximately 50km from the airport. The intense development of other coastal towns such as Torremolinos and Fuengirola has gracefully bypassed Nerja despite its predominantly foreign population. As a result, Nerja is a pretty town and its location at the foothills of the Almijara mountain range further enhances it. The beaches in Nerja are clean with powdery sand and are comparatively uncrowded. Nerja´s old town is relatively unchanged and is typical of any Andalucian town with narrow winding streets, white-washed houses and decorated balconies.
Nerja´s most eminent attraction is its caves, which were discovered in 1957 and are located 3km from the town. The caves are considered of great historical importance, nationally, and contain paintings and artefacts dating as far back as 30,000 years. However, the paintings are not on public display and it is possible that they never will be. One of the caverns has been converted into a concert hall and many concerts are staged there during the summer months.
At the heart of Nerja is the Balcón de Europa or Balcony of Europe. The balcony was constructed in 1487 on the site of a 9th century Moorish castle. Perched on a cliff edge, in between two small covers, the balcony offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean, while its many palm trees and benches provide shade and a place to relax. There is also a fine selection of bars and cafés along here
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