Manilva Area Guide

Manilva Area Guide

The district of Manilva in the west of the Costa del Sol covers a surprisingly large area. It is on the western edge of the province of Málaga, on the border of Cádiz province. The Manilva Area includes the coastal towns of La Duquesa and Sabinillas, but is famed for its traditional white-washed village of the same name.

Manilva village, which is about 2 km inland, is famous for grape-making and agricultural production of cereals, fruit and vegetables. The surrounding countryside in the Maniva area is spectacular, especially around the valley of the Guadiaro river. There are many Roman ruins scattered about, including an original Roman bath, where Julius Caesar was said to have bathed, and was so taken with the natural healing properties of the sulphurous waters, he also dragged in his horse for an impromptu bath!

For the tourist, the 18th century Church of Santa Ana and the castle of Sabinillas are both worth a visit. The entire area is ringed by the Sierra Bermeja mountain range, resulting in breathtaking views and some excellent mountain excursions for the more adventurous visitor.

Hotels, restaurants, and golf courses are also in abundance in the Manilva area. Road connections via a relatively new toll road, and the choice of two airports (Málaga to the east, and Gibraltar to the west) make it a highly accessible area of southern Spain. Manilva is also very much in golf country, with the courses at La Duquesa and nearby Sotogrande both close to hand. The Valderrama golf complex (home to the Volvo Masters and previous Ryder Cup venue) is just a short drive away.

In short, the Manilva district is a mixture of old and new - traditional inland village Spain, combined with modern sea-front facilities. There’s something for everyone in Manilva, with La Duquesa’s harbour continuing to attract the attention of nautical enthusiasts from across the world - boats and yachts jostle for mooring space in its busy marina. There is a large expat community in Manilva, who come for its tranquil surroundings, good golf access, and its relatively lower property prices compared to the more expensive areas of Puerto Banus and Marbella, a little further up the coast.
 

Things You Must Do and See In Manilva

Roman Baths: In the valley below Manilva are the Roman Sulphur baths of Hedionda. Sulphur is one of the elements essential to life as a constituent of various biologically active compounds.
Roman Aqueduct: Along side the road between the coast and the baths lies a 100m aqueduct reputed to be of Roman origin.
Castillo de la Duquesa: Situated to the west of the marina of Puerto de la Duquesa is the small coastal village of Castillo. Castillo takes its name from the Castillo de la Duquesa which is the 18th Century fortress which stands at the entrance.
Activities: Boat Trips, Bowls, Cycling, Fishing, Football, Golf, Horse Riding, Motor Cross, Paddle, Tennis, Polo, Rugby, Scuba Diving, Walks and Hiking.