Excursions from the Costa del Sol

One of the most famous holiday destinations in Spain is undoubtedly the Costa del Sol. This is the coastline of Malaga in Andalusia, southern Spain. As the name suggests, you’ll find sunny weather almost all year round, and fabulous beaches ideal for a stroll or a swim. But as well as its beach resorts, you’ll love its whitewashed villages further inland, its cultural attractions, its local food, its many different shops, its wide variety of golf courses, and its vibrant traditions. And if you’re travelling with children, there are plenty of leisure parks to choose from.

Starting from the city of Malaga, the capital of the province, we suggest several excursions for anyone spending a few days on the Costa del Sol. If you are staying in another town, such as Marbella, these excursions can easily be adapted to suit your location.

East of Malaga

Heading eastwards along the coast from Malaga city, we suggest a 60-kilometre journey to see two charming towns: Nerja, on the coast, and Frigiliana, inland.

Nerja

On a visit to Nerja, there are two main attractions not to be missed. First, the Nerja Caves (about four kilometres out of town), over 4,000 metres long, famous for their beauty and the cave paintings. In Nerja, there is an unforgettable viewing point looking over the Mediterranean Sea, called the “Balcony of Europe”, typical southern Spanish houses, and historic buildings like the Church of El Salvador.

Frigiliana

Many people visiting Nerja take the opportunity to also visit Frigiliana, just seven kilometres inland and said to be one of the prettiest villages of Malaga. And here's an interesting fact: Frigiliana has the purest vernacular architecture of Arab origin in the region. Just the sight of its narrow streets and alleys recalls its Moorish past. Frigiliana also retains its traditional crafts, and shops in the old town offer gifts made of esparto grass, glass, clay, wood, etc.