Geography & seasons
Frigiliana is located on the Costa Tropical east of Malaga. High mountains and the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea ensure a unique and very mild climate. Frigiliana enjoys around 320 days of sunshine a year. Even in January, days can be so warm that lunch can be enjoyed outside in a t-shirt. When heat waves ravage Spain in summer, the weather is usually pleasant.
Citrus fruits, almonds, avocados and mangoes are grown here. The region also produces muscatel grapes, which are used to make the speciality vino terreno or Frigiliana wine - a sweet, aromatic moor wine that many locals make themselves. We do the same at Casa Doña Angela.
The winter months are mild and ideal for hiking and active holidays. Herbs and flowers spice up the air, and on sunny days it's great to be outside. In January, almond trees blossom and cornflowers sprout.
Spring and early autumn are high season in Frigiliana. The weather is warm and stable, but not too hot. It is possible to combine hiking with lazy days at the beach or by the pool.
June-August are hot months and longer hikes are generally discouraged here. Instead, enjoy the garden pool, the beaches of Nerja a few miles away and the warm, starry evenings.
Cities of Andalusia
It is possible to go on full-day trips to the big cities of Málaga, Seville and Granada. All three cities are worth a visit. The latter is particularly famous for the Moorish Alhambra Palace, which you need to book tickets for many weeks in advance. It is therefore important to plan well in advance if you want a trip there. Read more about the Alhambra and book your ticket here.
We're happy to offer tips and suggestions for things to do and places to eat on trips to Andalusia's major cities.
Cities nearby
Acebuchal: In the mountains behind Frigiliana nestles the small, white village of Acebuchal. Many wander in through the partially cultivated land - el campo. Here's one of the area's best lunch restaurants, with rustic regional dishes on the menu. Acebuchal was a ghost town for many years, but an enterprising family set about restoring the white village, which today sparkles beautifully in the green landscape.
Nerja: Down by the coast is Frigiliana's nearest major town, Nerja. It is particularly famous for its ancient Neanderthal caves. Its beaches have attracted charter tourists for years, but life is generally quieter here than closer to Malaga. Nerja's centre is spectacular, with the Balcón de Europa cliff the main attraction. The town has some of the area's finest beaches and plenty of good shopping. There is a bus between Nerja and Frigiliana, the journey takes about 15 minutes.
Almuñécar: A good half hour's drive east is the ancient town of Almuñécar. It has a lively centre with a market, shopping streets and a beautiful castle overlooking the town's excellent beaches and botanical gardens. We often visit the town's magnificent food market on our excursions.
Cómpeta: This is another of Andalusia's poetic white towns. Cómpeta is about the same size as Frigiliana and has both eateries and bars to enjoy a lazy hour.