Located not far from Málaga, on the Costa del Sol, is Manilva, a charming town near the sea known for its surrounding vineyards. With superb beaches stretching over eight kilometers of coastline, this destination is ideal for those seeking relaxing holidays.
Do you love culture, history, and Andalusian traditions? Do you want to enjoy good meals not far from the beach? Then read on and discover Manilva, the perfect destination for your next summer holidays!
Where is Manilva?
Geographically, Manilva is a municipality in the autonomous community of Andalusia, in the province of Málaga, Spain. With a population of approximately 19,000 inhabitants, this small town of indescribable charm is conducive to calm and authenticity, far from the hustle and bustle of the region’s large cities, hence its appeal. The exact area covered by the municipality is difficult to define, as one part is on hilly terrain and the other along the winding coast, combining the classic Andalusian village and the current tourist resort.
Therefore, to get to Manilva from Málaga, it is best to take the AP-7 and exit at 142 to continue on the A-337. The journey time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Manilva's Beaches
Due to its geographical location, Manilva is a popular destination for its coastline, especially for its Sabinillas beach: the spot, which has all the necessary services, is ideal if you want to relax and sunbathe, but also to eat if you take a stroll along its promenade. If you want a quieter beach and can get around, head to Cala Sardina beach in San Roque ; devoid of constructions and boasting an authentic setting, it offers views of the Rock of Gibraltar and Monte Musa.
Other beaches are accessible from Manilva, such as Punta Chullera Beach, located in the municipality of the same name, Aldea Beach, a quiet destination not far and easily accessible on foot, or Las Gaviotas Beach, a beach in Puerto de la Duquesa perfect for relaxing on its dark, fine sand. In short, the choice is yours!
Cultural and Leisure Activities to Do on Site
The municipality of Manilva is full of all kinds of monuments, some bearing witness to the rich and religious Andalusian past; one of Manilva’s most emblematic monuments is the Castillo de la Duquesa, also known as Fortin de Sabinillas. It was built in 1767, in an ancient Roman city, to defend the coast from continuous pirate invasions. This fortress, located next to the Neolithic village of Castillejos de Alcorrín, is classified as a Site of Cultural Interest. Inside, visitors can enjoy the Manilva Archaeological Museum, which houses a unique collection composed mainly of ceramics, ornaments, and various tools and pieces dating from the 1st to the 5th centuries.
Regarding religious monuments, the Church of Santa Ana is worth a visit: built on a previous construction dating back to approximately the 16th century, it boasts a typical style and was intended for monitoring the coastal area.
Finally, you cannot leave Manilva without visiting Ingenio Chico, with its aqueduct, as well as Villa Matilde: the former, with its Moorish appearance, is part of one of the ingenious sugar cane mills, while the villa is a residence that belonged to the brother of Blas Infante (Andalusian politician), Diego Infante, whose rooms now host cultural exhibitions.
Excursion Ideas near Manilva
Manilva is an ideal municipality for your holidays, as it is located near a plethora of activities and excursions that you can do with family, friends, or solo.
For an original and relaxing activity, head to the municipality of Casares, a few kilometers from Manilva, to enjoy the Baños de la Hedionda, Roman baths that are said to have been Julius Caesar‘s favorite spot! The place is perfect for an early morning dip; however, you will have to walk a bit after leaving the road and cross dense vegetation, but it’s worth it!
For those who love wine, we recommend visiting Manilva in September to enjoy the famous Manilva Muscat grape and its own grape harvest festival, a traditional event that highlights the region’s winemaking expertise, all enlivened by typical songs, dances, and, of course, an abundant wine tasting.
For those who want to be active during their holidays and discover unusual places, you can take your car and go to the Punta Europa lighthouse, a place that marks the westernmost point of the European continent and offers a panoramic view of the Strait of Gibraltar, from where you can see the African coast. This place is also renowned for its sunset!
Where to Stay and Eat Well in Manilva
Manilva is the preferred destination for holidaymakers seeking calm and authenticity; therefore, there is no shortage of accommodations within the municipality to welcome tourists visiting the Costa del Sol ; however, it can be difficult to find the ideal accommodation for your holidays in southern Spain, due to a very wide choice… That’s why Zapholiday offers its services! Visit our website and let our team take care of the rest!
Regarding restaurants, the majority of them are located on the coast and offer Mediterranean meals based on olive oil and seafood. Local produce is also part of Manilva’s traditional cuisine, such as asparagus, clam, and tomato soup or octopus salmorejo. If you want to discover these dishes in a unique setting, head to La Casita restaurant, or El Corralito Parrilla Argentina restaurant if you want to eat good grilled meat à la parrilla!
Discover Manilva this Summer with Us!
Due to its charm and ambient tranquility, Manilva is the perfect place if you want to disconnect and enjoy the sun at your own pace, according to your desires; whether you want to swim, go on cultural visits, or stroll through nearby towns, Manilva is a destination of choice!
Want to discover the Costa del Sol? Then don’t hesitate any longer and visit our website !