The beautiful villages of the Axarquia

Covering the area just east of Malaga city to just beyond the picturesque town of Nerja and inland to Granada, the Axarquia is home to some of the prettiest villages in southern Spain.

Villages near to the coast include: Nerja and Iznate. Inland villages which are not too remote include: Comares, El Trapiche, Periana and Rio Gordo. If you are looking for somewhere high up in the mountains and more remote, visit Canillas del Aceituno or Colmenar.

Axarquia properties for sale are popular with ex-pats who want to experience the ‘real Spain’ within just 30 minutes of the Costa del Sol.

Canillas del Aceituno

With a population of just over 2,300, Canillas del Aceituno is a 35 minute drive from the coast and is without doubt one of the prettiest villages in the Axarquia. Flower filled streets, cobbled squares and a stunning view over Lake Vinuela make this a must-visit village in this special part of Andalucia. This is also a popular starting point to start a walk up to the peak of La Maroma, the highest mountain in Malaga province at just over 2,000m.

Colmenar

Just a 30 minute drive from the coast, Colmenar is surrounded by hilly olive groves and boasts spectacular views over surrounding landscapes.

Known as the capital of the Montes de Malaga region, to the North of Malaga city, this little town meanders up a rocky hillside to a hilltop, offering glimpses of the Sierra Nevada, snow-capped in winter.  Very easy access directly from Malaga on the Malaga to Antequera road.

Iznate

Just a 10 minute drive from the coast, Iznate is an unspoilt village with traditional Spanish character and magnificent views over the vineyards and mountains. Well worth considering for a ‘get away from it all’ break.

Nerja

Situated on the coast, Nerja has a population of almost 15,000 and although it is a major tourist resort, the town retains much of its original charm. With plenty of attractions including the famous Nerja Caves and some of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol, this must-visit town caters for all ages. Properties for sale in Nerja are popular with ex-pats looking for year-round sunshine and excellent facilities.

Periana

Just a 25 minute drive from the coast, Periana is a small town on a pretty hillside with pretty, narrow streets and stunning views over Lake Vinuela and the sea. A typical ‘whitewashed’ village, Periana should be high up on your list of Axarquia places to visit.

Rio Gordo

A 40 minute drive from the coast, Rio Gordo is surrounded by olive groves and wheat fields. This pretty town sits in a wide valley with picturesque views over the countryside and easy access to Malaga via the motorway. Just 15 minutes from Lake Vinuela, Rio Gordo also hosts spectacular Easter processions.

Trapiche

Just an 8 minute drive from the coast, Trapiche is situated in low lying hills, just 3km north of Velez-Malaga. Located right in the heart of a vegetable, avocado and mango-growing valley, Trapiche is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the busier resort towns.

Comares

Comares is a 40 minute drive from the coast and is known as the ‘Balcony of the Axarquia.’ Clinging to the top of a craggy mountain, Comares boasts 360 degree views over the whole region. The town is steeped in history and signs of its Moorish past can be seen throughout the streets. Easy road access and definitely worth the journey.

Properties for sale in the Axarquia

If you are looking for properties for sale in the Axarquia, either as a holiday home or a permanent residence, choose from a range of village houses, apartments, townhouses and fincas.