málaga to nerja
CYCLING ROUTE

This ride crosses the less traveled coast of Malaga. The route starts in Malaga, taking the east direction until the beautiful coastal town of Nerja. It will delight those looking to spend good times on a flat road and those looking for the sea breeze while riding their road bike.

Images and text by Escapada Cycling

Our cycling route from Malaga city towards Nerja is a good way to add extra kilometers to your cycling holidays in the capital of Costa del Sol while easily exploring other towns. It runs through the typical towns of Velez-Malaga, Torre del Mar, Nerja or Torrox, and brings you the chance to get off the beaten path and let yourself stray into the unknown.

It is completely flat, which makes it best for an active rest day (ridden in whole or in part) or just a simple day without climbing. It is also recommended if it’s your first day cycling in Malaga, to make all the necessary adjustments on the bike without hassle and more especially, without getting lost, as it’s possibly the easiest route to follow.

The route starts its way in Malaga’s city centre, by taking the famous N-340 road, the old national road that runs along the whole Spanish Mediterranean coast, connecting Cadiz to Barcelona through 1248 kilometers. Some of its sections have more traffic than other ones, as it passes across many important towns. In comparison, the section from Malaga to Nerja is quite gentle out of cities and small towns. Furthermore, the road is in very good condition for most parts of the trip.

The first part, from Malaga city until Rincón de la Victoria, is usually the busiest one. From there on, the way broadens, buildings get smaller and you start to see the beach fully. Palm trees, some hidden beaches, and small towns prevail all around during the 55-kilometer ride to Nerja.

If you wished to stop halfway, Torre del Mar is the best option back and forth, with bars, shops and even bike stores. Although, if you fancy something less busy you can opt to stop in Algarrobo-Costa or Benajarafe (except in summer, when everything is busy). After Torrox, a few cliffs and small coves welcome our arrival to Nerja.

Nerja is as well-known on a national level as it is abroad. Ever since Spain opened up its borders in the sixties, this town is increasingly popular among visitors, who very often end up returning for a second or third visit, or even to live there. On one hand, it still keeps the charm of a typical Andalusian town, with small, whitewashed houses and cobbled paving. On the other hand, this town has a compelling tourist offer, which helped improve its economy by offering local and traditional services, hotels and apartments to tourists.

While still on the bike, a visit to the famous Balcón de Europa is a must. It’s a beautiful viewpoint located in the heart of the city, over a cliff, with great views of the sea and the eastern beaches of Nerja.

The way returning to Malaga is actually the same way back, following directions to Malaga city through the N-340 and the many towns we went across. Another 55 kilometers of coastal roads, beautiful sea sights and hundred paths around to explore and get lost if you feel like.