The spectacular viewpoint of Nerja (Malaga) is located in one of the most beautiful corners of Malaga, so it is a very visited place, and no wonder, it has incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea. Besides being in the centre you can stroll through the streets, have a quiet drink while watching the sun go down or take a picture with the well-known statue of King Alfonso XII. Although some of you may be a little familiar with this place as Nerja is where a large part of the TV series "Verano Azul" was filmed.
Nerja is one of the towns in Malaga that offers its visitors the most spectacular spots. Its famous Maro Cliff or the Maro waterfall.
The viewpoint of Nerja, also known as the "Balcony of Europe".
The viewpoint of Nerja, better known as the Balcón de Europa, is located between two beaches: Playa del Salón (on the right) and Playa Calahonda (on the left), two cosy and comfortable Andalusian beaches that you can get to know better as you walk along the shore. And below the viewpoint is Playa de la Caletilla, which has a little more privacy.
Playa del Salón beach, which is only 20 metres long, can be reached via a narrow path next to the El Salvador church. On the other hand, to get to Calahonda beach, which is about 120 metres long, you only have to go down a zig-zag ramp. And finally, to get to the beach just below the viewpoint (Playa Caletilla) is as easy as from Calahonda beach.
History of the Balcony of Europe
The famous viewpoint of Nerja has not always been there. Where today we find the Balcón de Europa, in the 9th century there was a fortress which later became the 16th century Castillo Bajo de Nerja. However, due to the War of Independence the English put an end to this ancient castle.
After about 3 decades the town council of Nerja reclaimed the land to build a palm tree lined promenade and the well known viewpoint called Balcón de Europa.
Although there is a small debate about the name of this viewpoint. It is said that it was King Alfonso XII, who during a visit to this town in Malaga due to the material damage caused by an earthquake, was impressed by the spectacular views of the horizon and cliffs, so he decided to name it this way.
But some question this information and say it is more of a marketing ploy, despite the fact that there is a bronze statue of the king on the lookout point.
How do I get to the Balcon de Europa?
It should be recalled that the lookout point is in the centre of NerjaTherefore, it is not difficult to reach it.
If you go by car you can leave it in the car park in the Plaza de España, which you don't have to worry about as it is quite well located and you can also take advantage of the opportunity to see the centre of the town of Nerja, until you reach the beaches in peace and quiet.
Also, when you are in Nerja, specifically at this viewpoint, if you go along the Balcón de Europa promenade you will find several ice cream parlours, cafes, hotels and a gastronomy of the restaurants in this area that you will want to lick your fingers.
