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NERJA -THE BALCONY OF EUROPE

Local Experts

By Published: May 21 2002

LongIsland.com

One of the more fascinating places on Spain's famed Costa del Sol is the town of Nerja (pronounced Nair-HA). This seaside resort presents a change from the more famous Miami-beach-like resorts of Marbella and Torremolinos. ...

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One of the more fascinating places on Spain's famed Costa del Sol is the town of Nerja (pronounced Nair-HA). This seaside resort presents a change from the more famous Miami-beach-like
resorts of Marbella and Torremolinos. Nerja is a bit off the beaten track, but a visit will show you why it's so popular with the many European visitors who've decided to live there permanently.

Nerja is not a beach resort per se, because it's coastline is as rocky and rugged as anything in Maine. It does make for spectacular scenery, however. Especially grand is the overlook near the town square that was dubbed by a Spanish king, "The Balcony of Europe." Nearby is a classic Spanish church filled with art and artifacts from the era of Spain's Golden Age.

Just outside of town is a natural wonder, the Cueva de Nerja, one of the largest cave systems in Europe, with what's reputed to be the world's largest stalactite.

Possibly the most enjoyable attraction of Nerja is walking its cobbled streets with their whitewashed houses and neat shops, then dining in one of the town's fine seafood restaurants. A great place to have typical Spanish tapas (fish, meat or cheese snacks) is the Carabao Restaurant, right near the Mediterranean Sea.

For information about visiting Nerja and the Costa del Sol, contact the Spanish Tourist Board at 212-265-8822, or access their websire at www.tourspain.es. Enjoy!