Where to visit in Torrox Costa.. Barribarto El Ingenio S Antonio church Apero Museum
Torrox's seaside resort
Torrox Costa is a modern seaside town. The first impression is that of a number of high rise apartment blocks taking advantage of the magnificent views of the Mediterranean sea. However, do not be put off from taking a closer look at the town as it has plenty to offer the visitor .
Most notable is the Costa’s long sandy beaches lined by a very long promenade. There are plenty of amenities including bars, restaurants, ice cream parlours and children’s play areas, all with views to the sea.
For anyone looking for an alternative to the sun and sea there is a museum for the fascinating Roman remains that have been found in the area.
Ferrara Beach and Promenade
Ferrara is the main Torrox costa beach, situated right next to the Torrox lighthouse.
It boasts a long promenade alongside it which is home to a number of pavement restaurants, cafes and bars. More restaurants can also be found on the streets running down towards the promenade.
The sandy beach has a number of palm umbrella beds, plus areas where you can just stretch out, as well shower facilities, toilets and access for the disabled.
During the evening the promenade is a very popular place to take an evening stroll. During the summer months there are often market stalls to wander around, and street musicians to entertain visitors enjoying an al-fresco meal in the many restaurants.
The ‘Balcon de Torrox’
To the east of the main promenade at Torrox Costa stands an interesting balcony overlooking the sea. Shaped like a blue and white ship’s mast, made of metal and glass, it is one of the main landmarks in the area, marking the start of the Ferrrara promenade. The Balcon is also used as a stage during local Fiestas.
Looming just behind the Balcon de Torrox is a tall white light house which was built in 1864, it stands at 39 metres height. The lighthouse’s first signals would have been made using olive oil lamps. In the early twentieth century, these were replaced by petroleum lighting. Electric power was first used in 1922 although during the Civil War, the keeper had to revert back to the oil lamp due to frequent breakdowns. In 1947 a generator was installed to guarantee the power.
Roman remains and Lighthouse Visitor Centre
Surrounding the area below the ‘Balcon’ and near to the Lighthouse are a number of Roman remains. The ‘Balcon’ has a glass floor, where you can look down onto the Roman remains (the glass can be dirty at times). There are further remains nearby on the promenade.
In May 2015 a visitor centre was opened in Torrox Lighthouse. Located in the old house of the keeper there are more than 200 square metres of exhibits including a scale model of the garum pools, a model of the ceramic ovens and a model of a Roman ship. There is also a full sized replica of one of the Roman burials found in the area and reproductions of some archaeological pieces found during the excavations. The centre also has an exhibition on the history of the lighthouse.
El Morche and other beaches of Torrox Costa
To the west of Torrox Costa, is El Morche, a long sandy beach next to a lesser developed area where the high-rise give way to low rise buildings.
The beach has all the facilities you would expect including, umbrellas, showers, toilets, and access for the disabled.
Other beaches along the coast of Torrox are Penoncillo, Mazagarrobo and Calaciete. These are also lesser developed, and natural beaches next to the main coastal road (N340), heading towards the town of Nerja. With fewer facilities but most have some beach- side bars and restaurants and are still very popular during the summer months.
Torrox Costa Watchtowers
Two watchtowers that are over 400 years old can be seen near Torrox Costa, Torre del Morche and the Torre de Calaceite. They were used for maritime surveillance to protect the local population from the constant attacks of pirates. Both have been declared to be ‘Bien de Interés Culturals’ (Assets of Cultural Interest).
The Torre del Morche is located in front of the beach at El Morche, hence the name, (although it also known as Torre Güi). It was the first watchtower to be built in Torrox, and has been mentioned in records since 1497. This 9 metre tall conical tower has been recently restored, and still retains its Mudéjar-style stuccoed facings. It’s visible from the N-340 motorway and at night is illuminated.
The Tower of Calaceite was also built in the 15th century. It is built from masonry and limestone mortar and also stands 9 metres tall. Thanks to its cliff top location, some 130 feet above the sea, the view of the Mediterranean can be spectacular on clear days, which of course was the original intention behind its location.
Torrox pages guide
Use the links below to explore what you can see and do in Frigiliana, what festivals take place through the year, and to read about the area’s fascinating history.
