In order to have perfect holidays, is to think of an itinerary that combines relaxation with cultural visits. For this reason, la Axarquía is the perfect destination, combining mountain areas, valleys, cliffs, long beaches and small coves. Therefore we have organised a day trip for you to do by car starting from one of the most popular locations in this route, Torrox, known as the village which has the best climate in Europe. This route will take you to the Arab past of the towns in la Axarquía up to the modern Eastern Coast. Let’s start:

 

We recommend getting up early, since there are many things to see in la Axarquía. A nice Mediterranean breakfast will give you the necessary energy to get out of the hotel and get in the vehicle, ready to enjoy this unforgettable experience.

 

10:00- NERJA

Before you get into the city, it is better to visit the Cave of Nerja, one of the most visited tourist monuments in la Axarquía. The cave opens at 10 in the morning. The entrance fee for an adult is 9 euros, 5 euros for children. Being an almost 5 kilometres walk, this is one of the jewels of Andalusia’s Geological Heritage, and a place not to be missed in la Axarquía.

Intended for all audiences, the visit lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes a tour through the halls of the Vestíbulo, Belén, Cascada, Fantasmas and Cataclismo. The itinerary features numerous sections with stairs and areas which are available for tourists to rest during the visit.

After enjoying the most ancient part of Nerja, it’s time to visit the old town and the renowned Balcon de Europa (Europe’s Balcony), a medieval Arab castle from the ninth century, then called Torre de las Guardas, which has been converted into a beautiful coastal viewpoint protruding from the village going deep into Playa del Salón and Calahonda Beach.

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12:30- FRIGILIANA

Frigiliana is a beautiful village in Axarquia located between Almijara and the Mediterranean sea, 300 meters above sea level. Its winding, narrow streets, whitewashed houses, the unmistakable Arab flavour of its Moorish neighbourhood and a lot of spots to visit are all attractions that gather thousands of tourists every year.

Immerse yourself in the old town and stroll through its steep streets that will take you back to the old times, leaving noises, vehicles and haste behind, and ultimately, everything we usually see in our daily life in the city.

During your visit to Frigiliana you will find the remains that its rich history has left in the form of monuments which still remain as a natural part of its streets: the Ingenio, currently the only molasses factory in Europe; Fuente Vieja, the Chapel of Ecce Homo, Los Reales Pósitos or the Tower are some of the examples.

 

14:30 – Mesón Los Migueles (Vélez-Málaga)

Certainly after this walk we feel hungry, and Vélez-Málaga is an excellent place to satiate our appetite. This town has an extensive history of local gastronomy, and so we recommend Mesón Los Migueles, a symbol of tradition. This corner of Axarquia, managed by the Pérez family in Vivar Téllez Avenue in Vélez-Mélaga for more than two decades, is a reference in the area, thanks to its excellent gastronomic menu and a service marked by familiarity. In Los Migueles you will feel at home with a wide variety of meat, fish and typical dishes of our cuisine, like paella or those stews recipies that must never get lost. Try the best flavour of the Andalusian cuisine and gather the energy you need to continue with your day trip.

 

16:00 Vélez-Málaga

To do a bit of exercise after eating, you can walk around Vélez-Mélaga, the largest city of the region of Axarquia. The visit can begin at the highest point of the hill of Vélez, where the ruins of the Fortaleza nazarí are located (XIII-XIV century) and from where you can enjoy great views. If you continue walking and watching the city, a few minutes walk will lead you to Santa María de La Encarnación Church ,which still preserves the well of the old mosque on which it was built, also featuring a valuable Renaissance altarpiece of Encarnación which includes the famous image of Cristo de los Vigías.

You can also visit the House of Cervantes where the famous writer stayed in 1594. His visit to Axarquía is related to his position as state tax collector. You can also visit the Palace of Beniel ,notable for its central patio and the coffering of the building’s grand staircase. María Zambrano Foundation is housed there, an institution based on the philosophy born in Vélez-Málaga. And in the central square Constitución we find el Pósito, an old wheat warehouse built in the XVIII century, now a property of the municipality, which shares the area next to theArab medieval wall, including the Puerta Real de la Villa, as well as Puerta de Antequera.

 

19:00 – Rincón de la Victoria

There are many things to see in Axarquía, and at this point we suggest you take your car and enjoy Rincón de la Victoria, ranked the municipality with the highest welfare of the province.

This village, is well-known for its beaches and its landscape of tropical vegetation stands, as well as its important historical legacy. Among its heritage sites we can mention Bezmiliana Castle, a fortress built in the eighteenth century by King Charles III. We recommend you visit Cueva del Tesoro,also known as Gruta del Higuerón, a marine cove with numerous chambers which preserves remains of cave paintings from the Palaeolithic era.

 

21:30- Dinner at la Rompiente

On the way back to the hotel we suggest you head to Torrox Costa order to end a fabulous day in the best way, with a spectacular dinner. From the service to the dishes, La Rompiente offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes and perfect tapas to share. With a large terrace overlooking the sea and a warm living room that invites you to stay there all evening, you will spend the time with the company of a recommended musical selection including the best of Jazz & Blues of all time. At La Rompiente you will find a relaxed and friendly atmosphere you will not want to leave.

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WHERE TO STAY

In order to enjoy the Axarquia in Malaga, there is nothing better than going to Fuerte Hoteles. The Olée Holiday Rentals apartments are located in the perfect spot in eastern Costa del Sol, between Torrox and Nerja, typical Andalusian towns with the best weather in Europe. This type of accommodation offers relaxing moments and a great number of activities and places to visit. The complex has air conditioning, a wide hall with satellite TV and a modern kitchen equipped with an oven, dishwasher, washing machine and drier. Some features a terrace and beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.