Axarquía

Why visit Axarquía

Axarquía is the eastern corner of Málaga province, a sweep of steep hills between the Mediterranean and the Sierras of Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama. It feels a world away from the busier western Costa del Sol: relaxed beach towns such as Nerja and Torre del Mar sit below dozens of whitewashed villages clinging to the slopes, many still following their original Moorish street plans. A sheltered, subtropical climate lets farmers grow mangoes and avocados alongside vines and olives, and with sea, mountains and village life all within half an hour of each other, it suits travellers who want variety without constantly changing base.

Main attractions in Axarquía

Nerja is the coastal highlight, with the Balcón de Europa viewpoint, the vast Nerja Caves and the protected cliffs and coves of Maro-Cerro Gordo, best explored by kayak or with a snorkel. Inland, Frigiliana’s Moorish quarter is one of Andalucía’s prettiest villages, Cómpeta celebrates its Moscatel wine every August at the Noche del Vino, and the Mudéjar route links brick church towers that began life as minarets, such as the one in Árchez. Walkers can follow the Río Chíllar upstream through narrow gorges or climb La Maroma, the highest peak of the Sierra Tejeda, while La Viñuela reservoir offers calmer water sports and lakeside picnics. The raisin and wine routes, Vélez-Málaga’s hilltop fortress and fresh fish in the beach chiringuitos round out the experience.