There are peoples who conquer because of what you see, and others because of what you feel. Manilva has that gift of mixing landscapes that make you fall in love with an atmosphere of authenticity that makes it unforgettable. Made up of three population centres: Manilva itself in the interior and the coastal towns of San Luis de Sabinillas and Castillo de la Duquesa, Manilva is a corner located between vineyards, castles and beaches where time seems to flow in a different way.
Read on and get ready to discover this destination on the Costa del Sol!
Manilva between vineyards and waves: a more authentic journey to the south
Small, white and with a soul. Manilva is that town that welcomes you with history, catches you with its landscapes and embraces you with its people. Between Roman baths and quiet beaches, here the Mediterranean takes on a new meaning.
Roman roots and Andalusian soul
Walking through Manilva is like walking through centuries of history. This municipality keeps traces of the Bronze Age inside, but it was the Romans who left an indelible mark. In the surroundings of the Castillo de la Duquesa, one of the population centres by the sea, there are still remains of a Roman villa with baths, necropolis and salted fish.
The castle itself, from the eighteenth century, stands on those vestiges to protect the coast from pirate raids. Today, it houses the Archaeological Museum and is the icon that gives its name to the population center of Castillo de la Duquesa (or El Castillo).
Following the coastline to the border with the province of Cádiz, history speaks to us from the beacon towers of Punta Chullera, which watch the horizon from a natural promontory.
Once in the village, one of the icons of Manilva rises: the Church of Santa Ana with its peculiar façade with a central tower.
And if you are looking for a different experience, don't miss the Roman Baths of La Hedionda, a few minutes from Manilva, in the municipality of Casares. Sulphurous waters among nature, where, as the story goes, Julius Caesar found relief in his skin.
Sabinillas, Duchess and Chullera: the other face of Manilva
The soul of Manilva is also lived by the sea. Its more than seven kilometres of coastline offer beaches for all tastes. From the lively beach of Sabinillas, with its promenade, beach bars and family atmosphere, to the wild beach of La Chullera, ideal for those looking for disconnection and unspoilt landscapes.
La Duquesa beach, next to the marina, combines relaxation and leisure. Here you can enjoy a unique sunset from a beach bar on the beachfront, paddle surf or savour fresh fish in one of its restaurants. And for the more adventurous, the beach of Los Toros, somewhat more hidden, offers corners of absolute peace.
What to do in Manilva? Live experiences
This corner of the Costa del Sol not only invites you to rest. If you like sports, Manilva offers trails through vineyards, bike routes and water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking in areas such as Punta Chullera.
The local markets, the cultural agenda and popular festivals, such as the Grape Harvest Festival in September, provide that local touch that attracts the traveller looking for authenticity. Because here everything is savoured without haste, with that aroma of sea, countryside and tradition.
Flavors that stay in the memory
And if there is one thing that completes the experience in Manilva, it is its cuisine. From the traditional skewers in front of the sea to typical dishes such as gazpachuelo or seafood stews, the local gastronomy is enjoyed with your feet in the sand or among the whitewashed streets of the old town.
There are restaurants in Manilva for all palates, and always with that Mediterranean flavour that you will fall in love with.
Visit Manilva and discover a destination with a lot to offer
Quiet beaches, an urban centre with history and a gastronomic offer that surprises. Manilva is ideal for those looking for a complete holiday on the Costa del Sol.
