Coastal cycling route from Malaga to Nerja & Frigiliana

Cycling route along the coast from Málaga to Nerja, with optional extensions to Frigiliana and the Nerja Caves

This is an easy cycling route along the eastern coastline of Málaga, suitable for travellers who enjoy sea views, quiet coastal roads, and relaxed cycling travel. Along the way, the route follows sections of the famous N-340 coastal road (Carretera del Mediterraneo), the old national road that runs along the whole Spanish Mediterranean coast, connecting Cadiz to Barcelona through 1248 kilometers. The route passes through small historic towns, with the option to visit two cave sites, each with its own geological and cultural interest. In summer, the route also provides access to several quieter beaches outside the main urban areas, which can work well for cycling travellers planning to combine riding with time by the sea.

For an overnight stay, you can choose between Nerja, with its coastal setting, or Frigiliana, one of the well-known white villages in inland Andalusia. Both options fit naturally into a gentle two-day cycling trip, and each offers several small places of interest to explore during your stay.

The route follows the coastline and can be done on any bike suitable for paved surfaces. If you prefer, the first section out of Málaga can be ridden entirely along the seafront promenade, following bike paths close to the water. For this line, a trekking, gravel or MTB bike is recommended, as a short part of the promenade crosses compacted sand near the beach – a flexible start that also works well for light bikepacking or multi-day travel.

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Route description

The route begins in Málaga and gradually heads east along the Mediterranean coast. You pass through the seaside suburbs and smaller coastal towns such as El Palo, La Cala del Moral, Rincón de la Victoria, and Torre del Mar. These areas provide simple coastal riding with continuous sea views and a calm coastal environment.

Between Málaga and Benajarafe, you can choose an alternative line along the promenade and dedicated bike paths. This section includes several small tunnels, the Peñón del Cuervo rock formation, and a small chapel carved into the cliff near Rincón de la Victoria. This is a very pleasant section to ride, so gravel, MTB, or trekking bikes work best here. Road bikes may prefer the parallel asphalt road for a smoother ride.

After Benajarafe, the route continues along a quieter coastal road with relatively low traffic – comfortable for touring cyclists and easy to follow.

As you approach Nerja, you can stay in the town, continue uphill to Frigiliana, or visit the Nerja Caves – a geological and cultural landmark of the area. Experiencing all three works well, as each place adds its own character to the journey and fits naturally into a two-day cycling trip or a lightweight bikepacking plan, with the overnight stay in either Nerja or Frigiliana.

Nerja

Nerja is one of the best-known coastal towns on the eastern side of Málaga province. On one hand, it retains the character of a traditional Andalusian town, with small whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. On the other hand, it has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The town centre features narrow streets, small cafés, and open squares with views toward the sea. The Balcón de Europa is Nerja’s main viewpoint, offering wide panoramas along the coastline.

Beyond the town centre, several beaches extend along the coast, and in summer the route provides access to quieter spots outside the main urban areas. Not all beaches are easily reached by bike, but some – such as Playa Burriana – can be accessed comfortably. These beaches are generally less busy than the central beaches of Málaga and offer a more open coastal setting.

Nerja works well as an overnight stop for travellers who prefer staying by the sea. In the evening of the first day, or the following morning, it is easy to ride up to Frigiliana for a short visit before continuing the route.

Frigiliana

Frigiliana is considered one of the most characteristic white villages in Andalucía. Set on a hillside above the coast, it has whitewashed houses, narrow cobblestone streets, small artisan shops and architectural details that reflect its historical background. The pace here is quieter than on the coast, making it a pleasant overnight stop for travellers who enjoy inland villages with a slower rhythm and mountain scenery.

If you stay in Frigiliana, you can include a short walk to the Río Higuerón – a green ravine with shaded paths and small pools. It is especially enjoyable during the cooler months, as some parts of the river may dry up in summer.

Cuevas de Nerja

Just outside Nerja, the Nerja Caves are one of the region’s most notable geological and cultural landmarks. The site includes large underground chambers, prehistoric paintings and rock formations shaped over thousands of years. It is a magical place that is worth visiting, and booking ahead of time is recommended.

Along this stretch, you also pass near the Cliffs of Maro, one of the most scenic areas of the eastern Costa del Sol. The village of Maro is small and quiet, with cafés and a traditional atmosphere. The beaches directly below the cliffs are not accessible by bike, but even from above, the views of the rugged coastline and deep-blue coves make this area a distinctive highlight of the journey.

Cueva del Tesoro

For those interested in cave sites, this route offers an additional stop. Closer to Málaga, on the way back, you can visit Cueva del Tesoro – one of the few sea-formed caves in Europe. Unlike the larger chambers of the Nerja Caves, Cueva del Tesoro is smaller and has an intimate character shaped by ancient marine erosion. It is also advisable to check ticket availability in advance.

Enjoy the southern coastal climate, together with a relaxed combination of cycling, coastal landscapes, and local history!

Coastal section after Malaga

Nerja section

This route was previously published as a road bike route on our old Escapada website. We updated the content to reflect our new Travel & Adventure concept while keeping the same region and key highlights.

Created by the Escapada Cycling team