A night stop in Nerja
Driving along the coast road from La Herradura brings a welcome surprise. Not only is the route really scenic, but there’s plenty of areas to pull over and enjoy the view. We’re hoping for a night stop in Nerja on this Andalusia Winter trip and we’ll soon discover if it’s possible.
The sea on our journey is flat calm and weather really warm. Along the coast on this mid March morning, we’re passing lay-by’s full of motorhomes. Many looking like they’re here for a while.
For us, vanlife is about moving on, always wanting to see just what’s round the next corner on an exciting voyage of discovery!
Delightful Maro
Then just around the next corner comes delightful Maro and our chance for a coffee stop in the sunshine.
Pulling into a parking area at the top of this small town provides our opportunity to take a break. Thankfully, we fit into a normal size parking space, as there’s a sign on a larger parking area saying no motorhome parking.
A walk follows into the white-washed centre, just a short distance away. To be honest, Maro is more like a large village and is quite gorgeous.
An old mill lays in ruins at the base of a shady square and bright flower blossom overhangs the pavements.
This area has mountain scenery surrounding the coast, making for a dramatic backdrop. In the distance we see the beach, so take a look, setting off along a winding road passing fruit plantations. It’s further thank we think, so after a while we turn back to the village.
After checking out the few small shops we return to the campervan, taking coffee on a bench and chatting with passers by.
Motorhome parking – A night stop in Nerja
Just down the road from Maro is Nerja. Checking our Apps before arriving and it looks like we may be in luck for a night stop.
Although it’s a strange route through town to reach the large parking area, eventually it comes into view. We take a ticket from the barrier entry and join plenty of other motorhomes making use of the area.
Despite the parking being a little unappealing, it turns out to be really convenient for walking directly into Nerja centre.
There’s parking only here, in amongst other vehicles, so not specifically for motorhomes. Unfortunately, there’s no service area, which is a shame, because it’s an ideal location. There’s more than enough space for an ‘Aire’ type parking, but at least they do allow overnight here.
Exploring Nerja
Nerja proves to be really lovely, resembling a more traditional Spain, with white was buildings and narrow streets.
There are a few footpaths from the parking area leading into the old centre, so its position is perfect. Palm trees line promenade walkways, where steps provide access to lower promenade levels and beaches.
The atmosphere is vibrant and pleasant, with plenty of people meandering the streets. Throughout the town are numerous restaurant’s, shops and bars, offering a selection to suit every taste.
Sea Views
Wonderful sea views from the clifftop walkways offer seating areas to linger. The sea is a crystal clear turquoise blue and glistens in the sun.
From the Balcon de Europa view point are more sea views spreading across the coast. Here, street artists and tourists gather, seemingly this is the place to be in Nerja. This palm-fringe walkway provides a focus of restful contemplation, before merging back into the narrow streets.
Eating out and moving on – A night stop in Nerja
It’s unusual for us to eat out, but Nerja is one of those resorts where you feel it has to be done. After all, there’s no point missing the atmosphere of this joyful town by eating in the van. Of course, there’s another reason too. Yes, we can’t resist the fabulous aroma filling the streets, it’s just too good to miss.
Choosing an Indian meal proves the right decision – it’s delicious! Finishing off the evening with a Limoncello brings our day to an end in this beautiful resort.
We’ve really enjoyed our time here, and we’re especially glad to have been able to find a night stop in Nerja as well.
The following morning after a relatively peaceful night in the parking area, we were ready to move on along the coast.
First we pay our €15 fee at the parking machine, before driving off to join the main coastal road again.
Apparently, if you ask the attendants in the ticket booth, there is an option to stay longer, but we have itchy feet.
Returning to Nerja
Following this visit to Nerja in the Winter of 2024, we chose to return again in March 2025 for another overnight stay.
Although the parking area is the same and Nerja gorgeous, the weather this year was cool and exceptionally wet for much of the trip along the Costa del Sol. However, Nerja is one of our favourites and no doubt at some point in the future we will return.