2 Best Sights in Costa del Sol, Costa Tropical, and Costa de Almería, Spain

One of only three known marine caves in the world, these are believed to date back to Jurassic times when this part of the Málaga coastline lay under the Mediterranean. The cave’s name refers to a legendary treasure trove hidden by Moorish kings in the 12^th century. Numerous archaeological remains from the Neolithic and Bronze ages have been found in the caves as well as rudimentary cave paintings. The visit takes you through seven caverns, bright with white limestone and turquoise lakes, and decorated with stalactites and stalagmites.

Between Almuñécar and Nerja, these caves are on a road surrounded by giant cliffs and dramatic seascapes. Signs point to the cave entrance above the village of Maro, 4 km (2½ miles) east of Nerja. Its spires and turrets, created by millennia of dripping water, are now floodlighted for better views. One suspended pendant, 200 feet long, is the world's largest known stalactite. The cave painting of seals discovered here may be the oldest example of art in existence—and the only one known to have been painted by Neanderthals. The awesome subterranean chambers create an evocative setting for concerts and ballets during the Nerja Festival of Music, held annually in July. There is also a bar--restaurant near the entrance with a spacious dining room that has superb views.

Visits are with self-guided audio tours (available in English). All ticket prices are cheaper online.