Spain is one of Zest travellers most popular destinations. The cuisine, stunning beaches, pretty architecture and carnival atmosphere draws many here. Take a road trip to best incorporate these attractions into your holiday. Travelling in the Andalucía region with a Málaga to Murcia roadtrip affords you incredible coastal views and charming villages.
Collect your hire car from Málaga Airport and explore for a bit before heading out on the A-7 towards Nerja.
Málaga. Photo by: bbsferrari/Adobe Stock
Málaga
Highlights in Málaga include the Picasso Museum, which houses the oldest walls of the Phoenician city, and the Interactive Museum of Music. The pueblos blancos (white villages) east of Malaga can be pleasant to explore if you have time. They are spread out along the coast and within the mountains.
Nerja
The next stop along the coast is Nerja. Visit the Nerja caves and the prehistoric cave paintings. Scuba diving is also possible here. Take a detour north into Frigiliana for great views of the Almijara mountain range.
From Nerja, take the N-340 along the coastline. There is a stunning bay at La Herradura which is relatively unknown amongst tourists. It’s great for a beach stroll or spot of swimming.
Towards Motril, pause in Salobreña for the 10th century Moorish castle. Coastal towns scattered here are full of character, such as Roquetas de Mar or Adra.
To stretch your legs and hike for some great views, reconnect back with the A-7 and head up towards Bubión. Get ready to explore the Sierra Nevada National Park. This is another little gem that is mostly undiscovered by outsiders. Due to its scale, you’re in for a peaceful and serene walk.
Salobreña Castle. Photo by: Juan Pablo Fuentes S/Adobe Stock
Almería
This attractive port town is worthy of exploration. Check out the Casa del Cine movie museum at Camino Romero, 13 – 04009 Almeria- it can be a struggle to find. Travel underground and see the Spanish civil war air raid shelters; Los Refugios de Guerra Civil. Wander the medieval fortress, Alcazaba, which was initially constructed to defend against pirates.
From Almeria, head around the coast southerly to Cabo de Gata for fantastic beaches. Alternatively, head inland to the Tabernas Desert, one of Spain’s semi-deserts. It was used as a film set for ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘The Last Crusade’.
From the AP-7 from Cabo de Gata, stop in the town of Águilas for the castle of San Juan de las Águilas and the stunning views. There’s also the beautiful cove, Playa Carolina, and Molino Sagrera windmill.
Cartagena
Continue on from Águilas to this notable Spanish port. There are many archaeological sites here to discover, from both Roman and Byzantine periods. Immerse yourself in history at the Municipal Archaeological museum. See the Peral Submarine located outside the Naval Museum. For a feeling of complete freedom, El Portús is a nudist beach.
Cabo de Gata. Photo by: maurompf/Adobe Stock
Murcia
Take either the A-7 or AP-7 to reach Murcia. Be sure to sample some tapas here. You’ll find it to be the best in Spain! Fresh seafood is also a must-try here. Head for the Cathedral, which has the most stunning façade in Murcia, and the nearby bishop’s palace with its unusual exterior.
Plan your south coast tour of Spain and take a Málaga to Murcia roadtrip
Which stops above have you visited and what have been your highlights? Let us know in the comments. What other highlights would you recommend to fellow travellers?
Written by Jessica Juby.
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