The Sanctuary's charter is a win-win: running therapeutic riding classes for handicapped kids and sheltering abandoned equines. Located a five minute walk from downtown Nerja on the Costa del Sol, the Donkey Sanctuary is a wholesome family break from the casually self-indulgent beach-town offering on this stretch of the Mediterranean. Call it the anti-Pacha. Older kids will appreciate the sadly intriguing underlying tale here of one technology eclipsing another in the tradition of Mike Mulligan & the Steam Shovel. These animals were abandoned because after Franco they were no longer needed to build roads. The classes have priority, so as a visitor its best to check the website or call for opening hours before heading over. The entrance is free, and for a small donation your kids can feed the animals chopped carrots, apples and bread. The funds all go back into the non-profit. Donations of bagged apples and carrots always welcome. Nourishment for the soul. read more

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