After multiple recommendations it was time to finally climb the stairs to Yesca. Plonked atop the La Puerta de Nerja hostel, this rooftop space has dominated local Instagram feeds lately. Expectations were high, fuelled by rumours of a Mediterranean oasis that feels worlds away from the typical tourist tavernas found downstairs.

Modern mediterranean flavours

Dinner began with a selection of contemporary tapas that felt refreshingly inventive. Local produce takes centre stage here, but the kitchen applies modern techniques to raise the level of simple ingredients. The selection included tuna tartare and a slow-cooked Iberian pork dish; both were presented with artistic precision. While the portions lean towards “boutique” rather than “hearty”, the quality of the seasoning was undeniable. If you are looking for a traditional, mountain-sized portion of paella, this is not your venue. However, for those who appreciate refined textures and balanced acidity, the menu is a triumph.

Liquid artistry and cocktails

Drinks are clearly where the team focuses most of their creative energy. My first order was a signature gin-based concoction infused with botanical herbs and citrus. Each cocktail arrived in bespoke glassware, adorned with minimalist garnishes that looked almost too good to sip. My companion opted for a spicy Mezcal creation which hit the perfect smoky note. One minor frustration occurred during the sunset rush: the bar became quite backed up. We waited nearly twenty minutes for our second round, which suggests the staff might struggle when the terrace reaches full capacity in the summer.

Ambiance and the social elite

Atmosphere defines the experience at Yesca. The decor is sleek, featuring muted earthy tones and glass railings that provide an unobstructed view of Plaza España and the sparkling sea beyond. It feels exclusive yet welcoming and in no way snobby, though the music volume did crawl a bit high as the night progressed, making intimate conversation a challenge.

Luxury features with a twist

There’s a high-end beach club feel with the rooftop jacuzzis on the roof in the middle of a historic town. Despite the glamour, the price point is noticeably higher than neighbouring bars, and the “open-air” nature means you are at the mercy of the wind. Even with those small gripes, Yesca provides a sophisticated escape in Nerja that is all about word-of-mouth.

Find Yesca in Plaza de España. Call 951 55 15 30.

Residents in Velez-Malaga can now access cheaper travel across the region following the town’s official entry into the Malaga Metropolitan Transport Consortium this May 1. This integration simplifies commutes to Malaga city and surrounding areas while providing big financial relief for frequent passengers.

Huge savings for daily commuters

Commuters travelling between Velez-Malaga and Malaga city will now see fares drop to just 95 cents per journey. Young people under the age of 30 can enjoy even lower rates, with the price fixed at 76 cents. Those heading to Rincon de la Victoria will pay only 71 cents, or 57 cents for youth card holders, such as students.

Switching between different modes of transport, such as buses, the metro, or suburban trains, costs a mere 39 cents within specific time limits. Estimates suggest that regular users, such as commuters, could save over €1,500 every year, a figure that rises to €1,600 for younger residents. Roughly 33,000 people in the local area are expected to benefit from these reduced costs.

Where to buy and top up the Green Card

Twelve authorised sales points across the town now stock the new “Green Card”. These locations are distributed to ensure easy access for residents in various neighbourhoods.

In Velez-Malaga itself, five tobacconists (estancos) provide the service: Avenida Vivar Téllez 81, Calle Aldeodato Altamirano 19, Calle Cristo 58, Calle Reñidero 5, and Pasaje Juan Sebastián Elcano 8C.

Torre del Mar residents can visit four specific sites: Calle San Andrés (Edificio Neptuno 78), Calle Las Yucas 3, Calle Enmedio 24, and Calle del Río 7.

Additional points are available at Carretera de Almería 138 in Benajarafe, Avenida de Andalucía 101 in Caleta de Velez, and Barriada de Lagos 87 in Lagos.

Cards cost between €1.50 and €2.00 to start off with. Credit can then be added in increments of €5, €10, €20, or €30. The system calculates fares based on “jumps” between zones, automatically applying discounts of up to €1.55 depending on the distance travelled.

Euro Weekly News delivers the latest news and events for Nerja, Torre del Mar, Viñuela, Velez-Malaga and Rincon de la Victoria all in one place in English.

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