The locations - Costa del Sol East
The Pearls of Axarquía

Axarquía – New construction Costa del Sol East

About Axarquía – Costa del Sol East

In contrast to Marbella's “bling-bling” image, the Axarquía is often described as more authentic, greener and quieterThe atmosphere is more Spanish, although Nerja has a very strong international community. It's an area of contrasts: modern boulevards on the coast and ancient white villages (pueblos blancos) just 15 minutes inland. On the eastern Costa del Sol, there are still attractively priced new developments, particularly in the towns of Torrox and Torre del Mar. The area is now rapidly emerging and is likely to become the new hotspot of the Costa del Sol. 

Places Axarquía – Costa del Sol East

1. Torre del Mar

  • Profile: A vibrant, modern Spanish seaside resort. It is the coastal district of the larger, historic city of Vélez-Málaga (the capital of the Axarquía region).
  • Property: Mainly apartment complexes (both new and older). It is generally flatter than Nerja, which can be a great advantage if you are less mobile.
  • Realm: Very popular with Spanish families themselves, it has a vast, well-maintained promenade (Paseo Marítimo) and a wide sandy beach.
  • Hospitality: Excellent and very affordable. Lots of focus on local tapas bars and chiringuitos (beach restaurants) known for espetos (grilled sardines).
  • New Construction Tip: HORUS V – prices from €225,000 – more information HORUS V >
  • New Construction Tip: HORIZONTE II (Algarrobo Costa) – prices from € 243,700 – more information HORIZONTE II >

2. Torrox Costa

  • Profile: This is a mixed bag. It has a large international community and is known for its slogan, "The best climate in Europe."
  • Property: A mix of older apartments and new developments. Prices are often slightly lower than in Nerja, but slightly higher than in Torre del Mar.
  • Realm: The promenade is long and lively, with a mix of Spanish and international restaurants and cafes. Nearby Torrox Pueblo (the village in the hills) is a beautiful, authentic white village that's definitely worth a visit.
  • Hospitality: Very internationally oriented along the coast, a mix of international and Spanish catering
  • News: The municipality of Torrox Costa is very active in further developing the town, including a new marina and golf course
  • New Construction Tip: PUERTO NARIXA – prices from €229,000 – more information PUERTO NARIXA >
  • New Construction Tip 2: the TORROX COSTA resorts – prices from €227,000 – more information TORROX I >
  • New Construction Tip 2: the TORROX COSTA resorts – prices from €227,000 – more information TORROX II >

3. Nerja

  • Profile: Considered by many to be the "jewel" of the eastern Costa del Sol, it has retained its charm thanks to strict building regulations (relatively few high-rise buildings).
  • Property: It most expensive of the three. Highly sought after. The selection ranges from apartments in the town center to luxury villas in neighborhoods like Capistrano or El Peñoncillo (towards Torrox).
  • Realm: Very international, but in a charming way. The center is lively and picturesque. The downside: Nerja is very hillyA walk to the beach often means a steep climb back up.
  • Hospitality: Huge selection. From traditional tapas bars in the old town to high-end international restaurants.

Accessibility, facilities and sights.

Here is an overview of the practical infrastructure and facilities:

Infrastructure and Accessibility

  • Airport: Málaga Airport (AGP) is the only relevant airport. Accessibility is excellent via the A-7 motorway.
    • To Torre del Mar: approx. 40-45 minutes (approx. 50 km)
    • To Torrox Costa: approx. 45-50 minutes (approx. 60 km)
    • To Nerja: approx. 50-60 minutes (approx. 70 km)
  • Motorway: The A-7 (Autovía del Mediterráneo) is the lifeline that connects the entire coast. This is a modern and well-maintained highway.
  • Public transport: There are very good and frequent bus connections (mainly from ALSA) between all coastal towns and Málaga city.

Facilities

  • Health care: The main public hospital is the Hospital Comarcal de la Axarquía, strategically located near Vélez-Málaga (near Torre del Mar). This is a large and modern hospital. Nerja and Torrox have good health centers (primary health centers).
  • Shops: Torre del Mar has the largest shopping center (El Ingenio) with all the well-known Spanish chains (Zara, Mango, etc.). Nerja and Torrox have excellent supermarkets (Lidl, Aldi, Mercadona), but for "large" purchases, people often drive to El Ingenio.

Places to See and Things to Do

  • The Balcón de Europa (Nerja): The iconic viewpoint and the heart of Nerja.
  • The Caves of Nerja (Cuevas de Nerja): A spectacular cave system, one of Spain's top attractions.
  • The White Villages (Pueblos Blancos):
    • Frigiliana: Situated just above Nerja, it's consistently voted one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. It's beautiful, but very touristy in summer.
    • Cómpeta: A larger white village, popular with hikers and expats looking for a finca (country house).
  • Beaches: A large and varied range of beaches:
    • Torre del Mar & Torrox: Wide, long, dark sandy beaches. Ideal for long walks.
    • Nerja: Many smaller, intimate coves (called calas), such as Burriana Beach (the largest) and the photogenic Calahonda and Carabeo. Often surrounded by cliffs.

Axarquía is often described as more Spanish, more authentic, greener and quieter.