Nerja, Spain

Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Cádiz – just the very mention of these quintessential Andalucian cities conjures images of what most people imagine the ‘real’ Spain to be like. White-washed villages, colourful fiestas and festivals, sensuous flamenco, Moorish palaces, tapas, sherry from Jerez. But there’s more to Andalucia than just the images portrayed on so many travel posters.

There are also the hidden gems and Travel One’s gem is Nerja, one of Andalucia’s prettiest coastal resorts, located some 40 miles east of Malaga. Here, with a backdrop of beautiful mountain scenery you would be forgiven for thinking you are a million miles from the bright lights of the Costa del Sol. The pace is slower, there’s a selection of attractive rooftop bars with great views, pretty little whitewashed houses with colourful flowers and plants, and always a friendly ‘buenos dias’ from your Andalucian hosts. There are also two great ferias to enjoy in Nerja – in May and October – with processions, flamenco and a wonderful atmosphere

Hotel Perla Marina  

The Perla Marina comprises two buildings and overlooks one of Nerja’s three beaches. There’s the main pool (with complimentary towels, deposit payable), a rooftop pool (seasonal opening) with lovely views of Nerja and its mountain backdrop, sun terraces, restaurant, bar, snack bar, a reading room & games room and occasional live entertainment.

All the Perla Marina’s comfortable, air-conditioned bedrooms have satellite TV, phone, safe (payable locally), bath/sh/wc, hairdryer and mini-fridge and some have a balcony or terrace. Sea view rooms, all with balcony or terrace, are also available (£12 per day supplement). The famous ‘Balcon de Europa’ (a lovely pedestrianised area overlooking the sea) and the centre of Nerja, with a wide selection of shops, bars and restaurants, is just a 10 minute stroll from the Perla Marina.

Hotel Perla Marina prices for departures on or between these dates

Prices are per person in a twin/double for sole use, half board