From Marbella to Nerja and Torrox: the ultimate route through Malaga to discover the Costa del Sol
Malaga is a destination brimming with possibilities. Natural parks, Mediterranean beaches, picturesque towns... The route from Marbella to Nerja and Torrox is a great way to explore some of the most charming villages on the Costa del Sol in just one day.
Essential stops on a tour of Malaga
Between Marbella and Nerja there is a distance of approximately 118 km, crossing the northern half of the Costa del Sol coastline. It is a linear route that can be comfortably travelled along the N-340, offering panoramic views of some of the most popular beaches on a route through Malaga.
This is a suggestion for discovering the most popular spots on this stretch of the Mediterranean in just one day.
1. Marbella: traditional breakfast
The route begins in Marbella's old town, with a delicious chocolate with churros or some toast with olive oil and tomato in any of the bars around the iconic Plaza de los Naranjos. After strolling through the narrow streets towards the marina and enjoying the healthy atmosphere of the morning on la playa de Venus, it's time to head northeast.
2. The charm of monumental Malaga
It takes just 45 minutes to drive from Marbella to Malaga, so by mid-morning you can be ready to explore the capital of the Costa del Sol. The area around Calle Larios will already be bustling at this time of day, and it's a good starting point for visiting the Cathedral of the Incarnation, the Malaga Museum and the Alcazaba, three landmarks in the southern part of the city. A stroll along the seafront through the Palmeral de las Sorpresas palm grove is a lovely way to bid farewell to the city.
3. Torrox, the silk town
Considering that it takes another 40 minutes to travel between Malaga and Torrox, this is a great place to stop for lunch. The most typical dish in this town is migas, so much so that it even has its own special day on the calendar. On the last Sunday before Christmas, Torrox celebrates Migas Day, and thousands of free portions are handed out in the Plaza de la Constitución. But, with or without a gastronomic festival, it is worth visiting this town on the Costa del Sol to discover its Arab influence in its white and blue plastered façades, its key role in silk production during the kingdom of Granada, and its unique lighthouse next to the remains of the Roman villa of Clavicum.
4. Caving and television history in Nerja
This short tour of Malaga would not be complete without a stop in Nerja, one of the most popular towns on the Costa del Sol, just 13 km from Torrox. Many generations will recognise these locations, which were the setting for the iconic television series Verano Azul, and which continue to be a major attraction for tourists visiting Malaga. Nerja is a great place to relax on beaches such as Burriana, gaze out over the Mediterranean from the Balcón de Europa or discover amazing natural sites such as the Nerja Cave, about 4 km from the centre.