Visit the coastal town of Nerja for its beaches but also for its caves
Let’s be honest: lots of coastal Andalucia feels very discovered. But one little portion, La Axarquia — which is sandwiched between the regions of Malaga and the Tropical Coast — retains much of its undiscovered appeal. You’ll find it lingering in alleys of whitewashed villages, washing up on La Axarquia’s lengthy shores, and even in geological wonders found below ground.
Like so much of this part of Spain, the Axarquia that you see today has roots in Muslim times. Even its name is believed to originate from Arabic — Ash-sharquia meaning “eastern region” (east of whatever sits west, presumably). Lots of Axarquia’s towns harken back to those earlier days not only with their names but also via their maze-like street patterns, and Moorish remains including fountains and minarets. Indeed, it’s yet another Spanish region to truly discover Spain’s layered past.
One of the most adored of these little historic enclaves is that of Competa, a tiny town that overlooks the surrounding mountains and valley. This is an ideal place to go to appreciate Andalucian village magic in all of its flower-balconied and whitewashed-building-ed goodness. And for the wine, for which the town is noted – so much so that they celebrate with a Noche del Vino (or a Night of Wine) come every August.
Another Axarquia favorite is the village of Frigliana, known as one of Andalucia’s most attractive little towns. Friligiana is a truly ideal place to experience the breadth of Andalucia’s background, as the pueblo holds the Fiesta de las Tres Culturas (The Festival of Three Cultures) in August. It’s a celebration that honors the town’s complex cultural history, influenced by Muslims, Christians and Jews.
There’s more to discover in this area too, including the pueblo of Nerja. Not only does this less-touristy-than-average coastal town boast 16 kilometers of sandy shores, but it also offers up a more hidden attraction: its caves. You can check out the prehistoric underground world along with its ancient remains and cavernous concert hall during a Tropical Coast and caves of Nerja day trip.
Other villages, beaches and outdoor adventure opportunities dot La Axarquia, so this is by no means an exhaustive list, and instead just a nice little introduction. If you’re keen to get to know a couple of these places, make the endeavor more seamless and rewarding by joining a Frigiliana and Nerja day trip from Costa del Sol or a Frigiliana and Nerja day trip from Malaga.
-Contributed by Erin Ridley
Exploring the Coastal Region of Axarquia from Andalucia & Costa del Sol Things to Do