Question 1

How many villas are at La Molineta?

Accepted Answer

La Molineta is a collection of four private holiday villas: El Molino Viejo (sleeps 8), El Huerto (sleeps 2), El Pocito (sleeps 4), and El Nido (studio, sleeps 2). Together they can accommodate up to 16 guests. El Pocito and El Nido are adjacent and can be booked together to sleep 6.

Question 2

Where exactly is La Molineta?

Accepted Answer

La Molineta is a hamlet in the hills below Frigiliana, a whitewashed village in Málaga province in Andalucía. We're about 1 km from the village centre and 6 km from Nerja and its beaches. Málaga Airport is 67.5 km away, roughly 50 minutes by car.

Question 3

Do all the villas have private pools?

Accepted Answer

Yes. El Molino Viejo, El Huerto, and El Pocito each have their own private pool. El Nido shares the pool with El Pocito (they are adjacent properties). All the pools are conventional freshwater pools treated with chlorine, not saltwater. Pool towels and sun loungers are provided at all villas.

Question 4

Are the pools heated?

Accepted Answer

No, none of the pools is heated. They warm up naturally with the weather, so they are lovely from roughly late May through to early October and cold outside that. If you are coming in the cooler months, come for the walking, the village and the light rather than for swimming.

Question 5

Is La Molineta family-run?

Accepted Answer

Yes. La Molineta is owned and managed by the Wakefield family. We are always available to help with anything during your stay - from restaurant recommendations to arranging airport transfers.

Question 6

Can I book directly without using Airbnb or Booking.com?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely - and we encourage it. Booking direct through molineta.com gives you the best price (no platform fees), direct communication with us, and flexible date arrangements. We accept secure payment via Stripe - all major debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Klarna, and bank transfer.

Question 7

Is there a minimum stay?

Accepted Answer

Yes - our minimum stay is 6 nights, across all four villas and all seasons.

Question 8

What are the nightly rates?

Accepted Answer

Rates vary by season and property. As a guide: El Nido from €80/night, El Huerto from €130/night, El Pocito from €180/night, and El Molino Viejo from €250/night. Dynamic pricing applies - check availability on each villa's page for exact rates on your dates.

Question 9

What's included in the price?

Accepted Answer

All prices include WiFi, air conditioning, pool access, bed linen, towels, pool towels and use of all villa amenities (kitchen, barbecue, washing machine, etc.). There is no cleaning fee, whatever the length of your stay. Linen and towels are not changed during a stay as a matter of course, but you are welcome to have them changed mid-stay for EUR 100. Just ask us and we will send you a payment link.

Question 10

Do I pay the full amount when I book?

Accepted Answer

It depends how far ahead you book. If your stay is less than 3 months away, the full amount is paid securely at the time of booking. If it's 3 or more months away, you pay a 50% deposit now to secure your dates and the remaining balance around 3 months before arrival. Should your plans change, our cancellation policy applies - a full refund if you cancel 60 or more days before check-in, 50% between 30 and 60 days, and no refund within 30 days (see "What is the cancellation policy?" below for full details).

Question 11

When is the balance due, and how do I pay it?

Accepted Answer

For bookings made 3 or more months ahead, we email you a secure payment link around 3 months before arrival. The balance is due within 14 days of that request, and we'll send a couple of friendly reminders. If it isn't paid by the deadline the booking is cancelled, the dates are released, and the 50% deposit is non-refundable - so do keep an eye out for the email.

Question 12

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

All payments are handled securely by Stripe - we never see or store your card details. You can pay by debit or credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Klarna, or Link. For bookings more than 8 weeks ahead, bank transfer / direct debit (SEPA in Europe, Bacs in the UK) is also available; we don't offer it closer to arrival as it needs time to clear before your stay.

Question 13

Can I pay in my own currency?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our rates are set in euros, but at checkout you can choose to pay in pounds sterling, US dollars, and several other currencies. The amount is converted at the live exchange rate so you always know exactly what you'll be charged.

Question 14

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

For direct bookings we offer a full refund if you cancel 60 or more days before check-in, a 50% refund between 30 and 60 days before, and no refund within 30 days of arrival. We're always happy to discuss rescheduling as an alternative to cancelling - just get in touch and we'll do our best to find new dates that work. And if you do need to cancel, we'll always try to re-let your villa for your original dates; where we're able to, we'll usually refund what you paid for those nights as a goodwill gesture, less a small admin fee.

Question 15

Can I book El Pocito and El Nido together?

Accepted Answer

Yes. El Pocito and El Nido are adjacent properties that share a pool. Together they sleep 6 guests across 3 bedrooms. When booking El Pocito, you can add El Nido during the booking process. This is ideal for families or groups who want extra space and privacy.

Question 16

Can I book multiple villas for a larger group?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. La Molineta can accommodate up to 16 guests across all four villas, making it ideal for extended family holidays, celebrations, or group trips. If you're booking two or more villas for the same dates, get in touch with us directly - we can coordinate availability, arrange a group discount, and help plan the logistics. Just send us a message through the contact page with your dates and group size and we'll put together a tailored quote.

Question 17

What time is check-in and check-out?

Accepted Answer

Check-in is from 4:00 PM and check-out is by 10:00 AM. Early check-in or late check-out may be possible depending on availability - just ask when booking.

Question 18

Do I need a car?

Accepted Answer

A car is strongly recommended. La Molineta is in the hills outside Frigiliana, connected by a steep but well-paved road. While there is a local bus that stops nearby (Bar Molineta), a car gives you the freedom to explore Nerja, the beaches, and the surrounding area. Parking is free and private at all villas.

Question 19

Is there WiFi?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all villas have ultra-fast fibre WiFi included in the price, a 300/300 Mbps symmetrical line at every house - more than enough for streaming, video calls and remote work. Measured on a guest phone in September 2026: 239 Mbps down at El Huerto, 254 Mbps down at El Pocito.

Question 20

Are the villas suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and the two houses differ in one way that matters with young children. At El Molino Viejo the pool is on its own terrace, set apart from the house. At El Pocito the pool is directly off the house with nothing between the two, so we do not recommend El Pocito, or El Nido which shares its pool, for children under 10. None of the pools is separately fenced, so children should be supervised at all times. El Molino Viejo and El Pocito both have multiple bedrooms, high chairs are available, and we can provide travel cots on request.

Question 21

Can you arrange a babysitter?

Accepted Answer

Not as a service, and it is worth saying plainly why: there is no villa babysitting agency in Frigiliana or Nerja, and we do not keep a sitter of our own to pass on. Families here arrange it themselves through Babysits or Sitly, both of which have real depth in Nerja; expect somewhere around 10 to 12 euros an hour, more for an experienced sitter late at night. Browsing is free on both and each charges a membership to send that first message, so a single month usually covers a holiday. In July, August and September, two or three weeks' notice is comfortable and the week itself is not, so start before you travel.

Question 22

Are pets allowed?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate pets at any of our villas. This policy helps us maintain the properties for all guests, particularly those with allergies.

Question 23

Can I smoke at the villas?

Accepted Answer

No. Smoking is not permitted at any of our villas, indoors or outdoors, and that includes e-cigarettes and vaping. It is a fire risk on a wooded hillside as much as anything else, and the smell carries between the terraces.

Question 24

How accessible are the villas? Are there steps?

Accepted Answer

Every villa has steps, and none of them is wheelchair accessible. The hamlet is built into a hillside, so getting from the parking to the front door involves steps at all four properties, and there are more steps inside El Molino Viejo, which runs over three floors. If someone in your party has limited mobility, please get in touch before booking and we will talk you honestly through what each villa involves rather than let you arrive to a surprise.

Question 25

How do I collect the keys, and what if I arrive late?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to arrange anything in advance. We email you full arrival instructions before your stay, including directions to your villa, exactly how to get in, and who to contact on the day. Late arrivals are fine and we will cover them in that email, so if your flight lands at midnight there is nothing extra you need to do.

Question 26

Is air conditioning available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. El Molino Viejo, El Pocito, and El Nido have air conditioning throughout. El Huerto has air conditioning in the lounge area. All villas are designed with thick stone walls and cross-ventilation to stay cool naturally.

Question 27

What towels and linen are provided?

Accepted Answer

Everything you need is provided: fresh bed linen, bath towels, hand towels, and pool/beach towels for each guest, all included in the price. We make up the beds before you arrive. We do not change linen and towels during a stay as standard, however long you are with us, but you are welcome to have them changed mid-stay for EUR 100. Ask us and we will send you a payment link. Just bring yourselves - there's no need to pack towels for the pool or the beach.

Question 28

Are toiletries - soap, shampoo and conditioner - provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each bathroom has refillable amber-glass dispensers of Faith in Nature body wash, shampoo and conditioner (Grapefruit & Orange, Lavender & Geranium, and Coconut) - natural, eco-friendly products we top up between stays, so there are no wasteful single-use miniatures. You'll also find hand soap at every basin and a starter supply of loo roll to see you through the first few days until you do your own shop.

Question 29

Are sun loungers and outdoor furniture provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every villa has sun loungers (sunbeds) by the pool, along with outdoor dining furniture and a barbecue. Parasols and pool towels are provided too, so you're set for long days in the sun without buying or carrying anything.

Question 30

What kitchen basics will I find when I arrive?

Accepted Answer

To get you started we leave a few essentials in the kitchen: olive oil, salt, pepper, dish soap (washing-up liquid), and dishwasher tablets, plus tea and coffee. The kitchen is fully equipped with a hob, oven, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, kettle, toaster, and all the pots, pans, crockery, and utensils you'll need. For a full grocery shop, Mercadona in Nerja is about 10 minutes away.

Question 31

How far is La Molineta from Málaga Airport?

Accepted Answer

Málaga Airport (AGP) is 67.5 km from La Molineta, approximately 50 minutes by car via the A-7 coastal motorway. We can arrange airport transfers or recommend reliable local taxi services.

Question 32

How far is the nearest beach?

Accepted Answer

Playa Burriana in Nerja is 6.5 km away - about 10 minutes by car. It's a large sandy beach with restaurants, water sports, and facilities. There are also smaller coves along the coast between Nerja and Maro.

Question 33

How far is Frigiliana village?

Accepted Answer

Frigiliana village centre is about 1 km from the villas - a 3-minute drive or a 15-minute walk (uphill on the way there, downhill coming back). The village has supermarkets, restaurants, bars, a pharmacy, and ATMs.

Question 34

What's the best time of year to visit?

Accepted Answer

Andalucía has over 300 days of sunshine a year. Peak summer (July-August) is hottest at 30-35°C. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for comfortable temperatures (20-28°C), fewer crowds, and lower prices. Winter (November-March) is mild at 12-18°C - perfect for hiking and exploring without the heat.

Question 35

Where is the nearest supermarket?

Accepted Answer

Mercadona in Nerja is the best option for a full weekly shop - fresh fish counter, butcher, bakery, deli, and a good wine section. It's about 10 minutes by car with a large free car park. Lidl and Carrefour are also in Nerja. In Frigiliana itself there is an Eroski City, which covers everyday shopping perfectly well, along with several smaller convenience shops. Most large supermarkets are open Monday to Saturday 9am–9:30pm and closed on Sundays.

Question 36

Is there a local market?

Accepted Answer

Yes - the Nerja Tuesday Market is the main event. Over 180 stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, olives, cheese, cured meats, spices, olive oil, miel de caña, clothing, and ceramics. Open roughly 10am to 2pm year-round. Go early for the best produce and bring cash. There's also a smaller Sunday flea market in the same location. Torrox Costa has a Thursday market, and Torre del Mar (the Axarquía's largest) is also on Thursdays.

Question 37

When do restaurants open for dinner?

Accepted Answer

Spanish mealtimes are later than northern Europe. Lunch is typically 2pm to 4pm, and dinner starts at 9pm - 10pm in summer is perfectly normal. Many restaurants close on Monday or Tuesday. In July and August, booking ahead is advisable for popular spots. A full meal with wine at a mid-range restaurant costs around €25–40 per person.

Question 38

What local specialities should I try?

Accepted Answer

Frigiliana is famous for its miel de caña (sugar cane molasses) - it's the only place in Europe that still produces it. Try fried aubergines drizzled with miel de caña, goat cheese with local honey, and chivo al ajillo (kid goat in garlic). At the beach chiringuitos, sardine espetos (grilled on bamboo skewers over coals) and paella are the must-haves. The local sweet moscatel wine from Cómpeta is also worth seeking out.

Question 39

Should I reserve sunbeds at the beach?

Accepted Answer

At the big main beaches like Burriana in Nerja you can simply turn up and hire a sunbed and parasol on the day. But at the smaller, wilder coves - Cantarriján is our favourite - the sunbeds ("tumbonas") are run by the beach restaurant and get snapped up fast in July and August, so it's well worth calling ahead in peak season. We love La Bola Marina right on the sand at Cantarriján (tel. +34 958 34 92 99) for paella and freshly grilled fish - ring them to book a table and your tumbonas together, especially at weekends. (Cantarriján is a clothing-optional beach, but you'll see plenty of people in swimwear too.)

Villa	Sleeps	Beds	Baths	Prices from	Bed layouts	Pool
Molino Viejo	8	4	4	€250	3 doubles, 1 twin	Private
Huerto	2	1	1	€130	1 double	Private
Pocito	4	2	2	€180	1 double, 1 twin	Private
Nido	2	Studio	1	€80	1 double	Shared with Pocito
Pocito + Nido	6	3	3	€260	2 doubles, 1 twin	Shared

Frequently Asked Questions

Compare our villas

About La Molineta

Booking & Pricing

Staying at La Molineta

Amenities & What's Provided

Getting Here

Local Tips

Still have questions?