Ereda’s Adventures

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Nerja — just that it was this small coastal town in Andalusia, around 40 minutes from Málaga. The drive there was easy, and as soon as I entered the town, I was struck by it — white houses everywhere, glowing even under a gray sky. It was raining when I arrived. Honestly, I was a little disappointed. I thought: “Great… no beach today.” But as if Nerja heard my thoughts, the clouds rolled away and the sun broke through, lighting up the entire coast.

I left my bag at the hotel and headed out to explore. I made my way toward the town’s most famous spot — I had forgotten the name, but now I’ll never forget it: the Balcón de Europa (the Balcony of Europe). It’s this beautiful, palm-lined promenade with the sea stretching out forever in front of you. Even though it was May, and yes, there were plenty of tourists, it didn’t feel overwhelming. People were happy, smiling, soaking up the sun — just like I was.

On the way to the Balcón, something special happened. There was this local singer, dressed in bright colors, performing traditional Andalusian songs in the plaza near the viewpoint. The rhythm, the voice, the passion — it was everything I had secretly hoped for without knowing it. It felt festive and real and emotional all at once. I literally stood there thinking: This is exactly what my soul needed.

From there, I went down to the beach — I think it was Playa de Calahonda, tucked right beneath the Balcón. Honestly, it felt like a little secret world. The water was deep blue, but as I walked in, it got cleaner, lighter, then darker again. Strange but beautiful. There were big rocks scattered around and this little traditional white house near the cliff — I took so many photos of it. It was just one of those places that doesn’t need filters.

Later, I walked into the city center. Nerja is so walkable, with plazas tucked into every corner. I made sure to stop at Plaza de España, which is big, open, and full of life. I sat down for lunch — a simple pasta dish (I know, not super Spanish, but it hit the spot) and a cocktail. And of course, the tapas were just… always there, in the best way. I finished off with a big scoop of ice cream, wandering the warm, cobbled streets before heading back to catch a concert later that evening.

Final Thoughts

Nerja surprised me. It didn’t try too hard — it just was. Charming, alive, peaceful. From the rain to the sunshine, the music, the ocean, and that little house by the rocks — it was like Andalusia gave me a memory I didn’t know I needed.

If you’re thinking of visiting, don’t rush it. Let Nerja happen to you. You won’t regret it.