Villages near Nerja 

Frigiliana

Frigiliana is just 7 kilometres north and inland from the coast at Nerja to which it is linked by several daily buses. It is definitely worth visiting this typical Andalucian mountain village during your stay in Nerja – allow a couple of hours for your visit to give you time to explore the narrow streets and stop for a drink at the viewpoint at the top.

Situated in the foothills of the Sierra de Enmedio, a southern extension of the Almijara mountain range, Frigiliana is an extremely pretty village which has received several awards for conservation and beauty. It enjoys spectacular countryside as well as wonderful sea views and provides an alternative to staying in Nerja itself for those who wish to experience more of rural Spain whilst still being only a short drive from the beach and the shops and amenities of Nerja.

Frigiliana consists of two adjoining centres. One of Moorish & Medieval origin and the other constructed recently whilst imitating the architectural style of the old village. Between the two districts there are two interesting buildings, the former Granary built in 1767 and a 16th century Renaissance Palace which is now a molasses factory.

Within the old sector, the narrow, winding streets are full of interesting shops and bars, and twelve mosaics by the artist Pilar Garcia Millan depict the village’s history. At the high point of the town there are remains of a Moorish castle. The parish church of San Antonio is of 16th century construction and houses three excellent 17th century paintings.

Settlement of the area originated in prehistoric times and archaeological sites date back to 3000-1500 BC. Phoenician and Roman remains have also been discovered.

Cómpeta

The traditional white Andalusian village of Cómpeta lies at the foot of the Sierra Tejeda and Almijara mountain ranges, some 15km inland. To reach it from Nerja take the motorway towards Málaga and come off at exit 285 – “Torrox, Cómpeta” , then follow the A-7207 for approximately 15 km until you reach Cómpeta.

Located seven hundred metres above sea level, Cómpeta provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, countryside and the sea. The old town is made up of a labyrinth of cobbled streets that date back to Moorish times, with the Plaza Almijara at its centre, an ideal place to sit and have a drink or snack at one of the bars or restaurants and watch the world go by. There is an old saying in the village – ‘A day without going to the square is a day without living’ and it has been the heart of the village for centuries. The square is dominated by the 16th century church La Asunción whose tower is one of the most well-known landmarks in the village.

One of the most popular annual fiestas here is the Noche del Vino (Night of the Wine) on the 15th August which features a programme of flamenco and sevillana music and dance, plus plenty of free-flowing wine. Cómpeta is well-known for its sweet wine produced from the Moscatel grapes that grow in the area.

Cómpeta also makes an ideal base for walking in the Natural Park of the Sierra Tejeda and Almijara mountain ranges. Walking routes are available at the Tourist Office and the bookshops also sell books on the subject.