Looking for a travel destination with a sea view? Are you open to summer or winter, as long as the weather is fine? Would you like a hotel where you can relax at the end of the day and enjoy the best views of this part of the Málaga coast? 

You just might find what you're looking for in Nerja, which is sunny virtually year-round, making winter the perfect time for a getaway. But Nerja is more than just a beach holiday destination, it is filled with history, heritage, culture and entertainment for anyone looking for a different kind of trip.

Day 1: Nerja Cave

If you've never visited a cave before, this is your chance. Just 10 minutes from the Parador in this town on the Málaga coast there is a spectacular cave that attracts thousands of travelers each year, all eager to discover its secrets.

The visit will make the morning fly by and it will be lunchtime before you know it. So we recommend treating yourself to a meal at the Parador restaurant and sampling the culinary delights made with local products.

One of the most memorable dishes: rice with lobster. If the weather is on your side and you can eat on the terrace with a sea view, the moment will be perfect! Let the Parador staff pamper you. The hotel has a gorgeous and beautifully maintained garden which is open to visitors, with explanatory signs throughout.

Nerja Cave is definitely on the list of must-sees for visitors, but we encourage you to keep reading this post. You'll find that the Nerja area has much more to discover than you can imagine.

Day 2: exploring the Axarquía region

Does Axarquía wine ring a bell? Have you ever seen how these grapes are harvested? The process is among the most amazing due to the relief of the area, which causes the vines to grow on steep hillsides that cannot be reached by mechanical equipment. This means that the baskets must be carried by the grape pickers themselves.

If you're lucky enough to visit at harvest time, be sure to take the opportunity to observe this age-old activity. It's well worth the time and a memory you'll keep with you forever.

If it's not harvesting season, you'll want to visit the area all the same. Vineyards dot the entire Axarquía region and taking in the views and sunsets while sampling one of the wines is an unparalleled experience.

Day 3: white villages and fairytale streets

20 minutes from the Parador de Nerja is Frigiliana, a small town with a special charm. The steep streets laid out on a hillside hearken back to its Arab past. Whitewashed houses with doors painted a special blue exude their own light, one that can only be seen in the south.

Corners filled with beautifully maintained flowers, shops and mysterious windows could all be part of an adventure film.

Don't miss a visit to El Ingenio, the sugar refinery with a wealth of architecture that houses part of the history of this town within its walls.

The Archaeological Museum, botanical garden, tower and Casa del Apero (Tool House) are other points of interest in a destination that's just a stone's throw from Nerja. The town can be reached by car or bus.

If you're interested in more "active" adventures, you'll be pleased to know that Nerja also has scuba diving. Ask at the Parador about companies that offer this experience and head for the water!

Is walking more your thing? Nerja also has a number of trails that will allow you to enjoy the natural surroundings. Don't miss them!

Book my getaway to the Parador de Nerja

One more thing: the Parador de Nerja is one of the top 10 Paradores, as selected by TripAdvisor users!