Visit the Caves of Nerja
The village of Nerja, in Malaga, is famous for three things: its idyllic beaches, being the site of a well-known Spanish television series, and for its spectacular caves. Today, we want to travel to the centre of the Earth (more or less) and visit the Caves of Nerja, one of the main natural attractions of a village awash with white houses and the cries of seagulls, which smells of sea.
The Caves of Nerja were discovered in 1959 by a group of five boys who had gone to hunt bats in a nearby well. They were surprised by a current of hot air which wafted out of a crevice, and saw that it hid some caves. The surprise was even greater when, after breaking the rocks and climbing into the cavity, they realised they weren’t the first to set foot in this place…
The Caves of Nerja are an area of great natural beauty, with incredible formations of stalagtites and stalagmites. They have a total area of 35.484 m2, and are divided into three layers: the High Galleries, the New Galleries and the Tourist Galleries. The latter are those which are normally open to the public. Their high roofs and the twisted natural columns often surprise visitors with their size and variety.
As well as their geographical value, the Caves of Nerja are also known for housing the remains of prehistoric burials and cave paintings of great worth. Some paintings of seals, estimated to be 42.000 years old, are possible the first work of art known to man.
Currently, the Caves of Nerja are considered to be a Good of Cultural Interest, and form part of Spain’s historical Heritage. They’re an essential tourist attraction in the area of Malaga.
Practical information for visiting the Caves of Nerja
A tourist visit to the Caves of Nerja lasts around 45 minutes. You can also try potholing adventure visits, reservation required. Every year during the month of July, the Caves of Nerja International Festival of Dance and Music is celebrated, which allows you to enjoy concerts and performances in the cave’s interior.
- Where: carretera de Maro unnumbered. The Caves of Nerja are around 50 km from Malaga city.
- How to get there: you can get here in car, using the Autovía del Mediterráneo (A-7), exit 295. There’s also a regular bus line operated by ALSA.
- How much: adults €8.50, children from 6 to 12 years €4.50, under 6s go free.
- When: opening hours in winter are from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 6.30 pm; in summer the caves are open from 10 am to 7.30 pm.
Laura – Marketing Team
