Frigiliana and Nerja

On February 23rd we toured Frigiliana and Nerja. Travelling down the coast about an hour we started our day with a visit to the magnificent Caves of Nerja. Discovered in January of 1959 by 5 young friends who were out looking for bats these caves are a series of caverns that stretch for almost 5 kilometres.  Pathways have been built throughout the caves which take you on a wonderful journey throughout this wonderful creation of nature.  It is absolutely mesmerizing and no picture can do it justice.  It is one of those places that the best pictures remain in your head.

From the caves we went to the whitewashed hillside town of Frigiliana.  It is said to be one of the most beautiful in Spain and after our visit we certainly agree.  The cobblestone streets wind up and down the hillside by picturesque alleyways lined with plant pots well tended to. Doors are painted cheerful colours and the shops have eye catching displays.  Small restaurants with enticing aromas invite you to stop awhile..  The views of the surrounding farmland are so peaceful to make the whole package perfect.   The whole town was also sparkling clean.  After touring the town with our guide Peter we sat out on a terrace and had a lovely lunch including the traditional dish of megas which had some blood sausage in it which was actually quite delicious.  Reluctantly we left Frigiliana and ventured on to Nerja for which we had high expectations but were soon to be disappointed.  The redeeming factor was the incredible views from the town terrace of the ocean and rocky shoreline but the town itself really had no character.  After coffee in a local cafe we headed back up the coast.  A bonus of the day was spending it with Peter who spoke good English and shared so much information.  It is so nice to learn about the areas in which we visit.

The Caves of Nerja 

The formations were incredible and the lighting very subtle 

One wonders how many other magnificent caves lie hidden to be discovered 

Plant lined alley of Frigiliana 

A resident makes his way up the hilly incline 

A colourful display outside a store draws you in

Lots of stairs throughout the town would certainly help keep you in shape

Fountain was built in 1640 to bring water to the residents and livestock and still functions today 

Up or down depending on which way you are heading but so picturesque 

Alleyway to a private home lined with well cared for plants

Looking over some of the rooftops to the buildings perched on the hill

Looking towards the farmland which is a major source of income for the village 

A view from the terrace at Nerja 
A picturesque alleyway down to the beach at Nerja