Manilva is a municipality which lies on the coast at the southwesternmost edge of the province of Málaga on its border with the province of Cádiz in the autonomous community of Andalusia in Spain. It belongs to the comarca of Costa del Sol Occidental.

Manilva’s strategic position, close to the entrance to the Mediterranean, has resulted in a long history of settlement in the area going back to the Stone Age. In recent years traces of these early settlers has been found in caves in the Sierra Utrera, a ridge of limestone which runs behind the town. There is also a historically important Bronze Age hill fort which is currently the subject of a programme of excavations by experts from across Europe.

It is during the Roman period, though that the area first enjoyed prominence, as it was the site of a thriving fish processing industry, which exported products, including the highly prized garum paste (a kind of “Gentleman’s Relish”) which was in much demand back in Rome. Remains of the factory, a villa and bathhouse can be found today in Castillo de la Duquesa, one of Manilva’s coastal villages.

It was in the 16th century that the town of Manilva itself was founded, although a part of the neighbouring municipality of Casares, it gained its independence in 1795 and has grown ever since. For many years the chief industries were fishing, agriculture and viticulture. Manilva’s vineyards are famous for their moscatel grapes, used for the production of raisins and fine wines.

Since the 1970s, when the Marina and golf course were built, tourism has been added to this list, and in recent years Manilva has enjoyed the status of one of the Costa del Sol’s fastest developing municipalities, with almost a trebling of the resident population in the last 10 years.

You will also find the beautiful and charming Marina of La Duquesa in Manilva. With lovely authentic places to drink and dine, whilst enjoying beautiful views to the marina.

All over the coast, you will have views to the Rock of Gibraltar, but this is also a great investment opportunity as you'll have the Airport of Gibraltar in short driving distance too.

It is easy to understand why Malaga City is capital of the Costa del Sol. Once considered the poor cousin of Andalusia’s capital city, Seville, it now competes successfully for attention, thanks to its profusion of quirky museums, delightful pedestrianised centre, innovative restaurants and stylish hotels, many featuring trendy rooftop terraces with bar, pool and stunning views. Muelle Uno is a contemporary leisure complex in the port – while a new arty district called SOHO is bringing a bohemian edge to the city.

Thanks to the year-round magnificent weather you can nearly always go to the beach in Malaga. From family-friendly beaches such as ‘El Palo’ to manmade beaches such as ‘La Malagueta’, there are sandy stretches for everyone on Malaga’s coast.

Although there has been a certain amount of destruction here over the centuries, especially during the Spanish Civil War, there is still plenty of evidence of the Moorish occupation. Today you can visit the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, dating back to 1065, which also now features a very interesting archaeological museum, as well as the Castillo de Gibralfaro, another Moorish castle. Read the History of Málaga. There are also many churches of great architectural and historic interest in and around the centre, which are well worth visiting.

Shopping in Málaga is a fascinating mix of the old and the new. Years ago shopping for the malagueños was a fairly parochial, low-key affair but economic booms and the increase in tourism, has resulted in more contemporary and chic shopping options, including international chains and shopping malls.

A promenade stretches along the coast to the Puerto Marina (Marine Port), which boasts excellent shopping and dining. The marina is also home to The Sea Life Centre, home to all manners of marine wild life, and has its own petting tank where you can get personal with the Rays. You can take a stroll around to look at the floating hotels and millionaire’s yachts and when the sun goes down the Puerto Marina becomes one of the coasts best party destinations.La Paloma Park is a gorgeous location in the center of Benalmadena Costa. There is a stunning array of flora and fauna, plus a menagerie of animals including hens, rabbits, goats and exotic birds. The park is beautifully landscaped with themed gardens and rocky waterfalls, which run down to the lake. There are two bars within the park where you can relax into the evening listening to the calls of peacocks.Beside La Paloma park you will find Selwo Marina, the sister to Selwo Adventure Park, further down the coast. Modeled around different locations in South America, you can view close up dolphins, sea lions, crocodiles, exotic birds and snakes. Recently a penguin habitation has been installed giving a glimpse of the Antarctic in Andalucia. Arroyo de la Miel translates to ‘Honey Stream’ is a former sleepy village, which now links Benalmadena Pueblo to its Costa. Being at the centre of things it has grown into a fantastic area for getting a bite to eat and shopping to your hearts content. The train station is found in Arroyo, which links the town all along the coast from Malaga to Fuengirola.Cable cars serve as a route to the top of the mountain that pins Benalmadena to the beaches where you can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view inland and out to sea where North Africa is visible on clear days. You can also take in equestrian and raptor shows at the summit.

Benalmadena Pueblo Benalmadena Pueblo is the original village, set back from the coast on the foot of Mount Calamorro at around 200 meters in elevation. The heart of the village has a traditional Spanish appearance with white-washed stone buildings and labyrinth alleys, however the village now has a much more cosmopolitan feel. Visitors to the Benalmadena Pueblo can enjoy fine dining in picturesque squares and awe-inspiring views of the coast and across the sea. Cultural Attractions The Buddhist Enlightenment Stupa finds its residence in Benalmadena Pueblo; it is the largest Stupa in the Western world standing 33 metres tall and is a point of interest for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.

Golf Benalmadena has a number of golf courses, putting greens and driving ranges. in the near vicinity. Benalmadena Golf is home to a driving range, putting green and a straight forward 9 hole par three. It has an excellent club house with restaurant and the addition of a bowls green. The nearest 18 hole course is Torrequebrada Golf, which offers a challenge to all levels of player. Although amidst an urban area the pine trees that surround it gives it seclusion and some of the views on offer are spectacular.

Estepona is a small fishing village with lots of character and an interesting history, reflected by the large number of fascinating old buildings in town. However if you are more interested in the present than the past, don’t worry, there is plenty for everyone to experience and enjoy.

The numerous street cafes and tapas bars still serve traditional Spanish delicacies. In the ‘old town’ the steep, narrow streets are pedestrianised and decorated with different colour flower pots. It is a delight for photographers. You will find bars and small shops in Estepona, where you’d least expect them, all very very inviting, very friendly.

The Estepona Marina is situated at the west end of the seafront promenade. This is a very pleasant place for a stroll and there are some magnificent boats moored here. There are also a wide variety of excellent bars and restaurants, open both midday and in the evening while younger revelers can enjoy the late night disco bars. There is a popular tourist market here on a Sunday morning.

Estepona is an area in great development, and new bars, nightlife, shopping, beach clubs are emerging, to completely the laid back feeling on the Costa del Sol.

Mijas municipal district is comprised of three very different areas, Mijas Pueblo (the village), Mijas Costa (the coastal strip) and Las Lagunas (a modern residential and comercial area). There are also three small rural out-lying districts called Entrérros, Osunillas and Valtocado

La Cala de Mijas is the central point of Mijas Costa and although it has grown and been built up, especially over the last decade or so, it still maintains something of its Andalucian seaside village atmosphere. From being a tiny fishing village originally, its population has increased to 10,000 – many of whom are British. There are schools, a health centre, public library, post office, shops and cultural centre, as well as many excellent bars and restaurants.

Only 25km from Malaga International Airport is the town of Fuengirola – one of the most popular destinations on the Costa del Sol. Easily accessible by road, rail or bus, it is not difficult to see why this buzzing cosmopolitan town on the Mediterranean is the number one choice for so many.

Previously, a tiny fishing village, Fuengirola has become a vibrant metropolis with character. The advent of many up-market tapa bars, good cafes and restaurants, interspersed with chic boutiques and other shops of interest, as well as fabulous beaches makes it the perfect holiday destination. The main square, Plaza de la Constitución, has been re-designed but still retains its unique enchantment. It looks pretty especially at Christmas, when it is decorated with very attractive lights and ornaments. It is also attractive during the Fuengirola summer feria, when the whole town takes part in the annual street celebrations. A walk down the narrow, pedestrian streets leading off the main square is a voyage of discovery for the many visitors, who come across some of the hidden secrets and delightful corners of this friendly, Andalucian town.

Since the 1960’s, foreigners have been discovering the joys of living in Fuengirola. At the beginning of the 1960’s, there were around 8,500 people living in this small village. By 1980 there were some 30,000 and now there are over 63,000 official residents. In the summer season, this number swells enormously with tourists.

BEACHES IN FUENGIROLA One of the Fuengirola’s main attractions is, of course, its wonderful seven kilometres (five miles) of sandy beaches, stretching from the Sohail Castle to the west and Torreblanca to the east. Water sports are strongly featured in this coastal resort. Where better to get to grips with speed boats, jet skis, parasailing than at the cool Marina.

SHOPPING: Fuengirola has all the amenities and comforts you need but in a beautiful Mediterranean setting. Whether you love shopping, or looking for a good gym or municipal sports centres.

Marbella is known as a glamorous resort town and is a favourite location with the rich and famous, boosted by foreign residents who are seduced by the lifestyle.

The old town with its narrow cobbled streets and flower-filled plazas is packed with delightful shops and art galleries selling pretty clothes and accessories, and handmade wares. One of the prettiest spots is the fabled orange tree-filled Plaza de los Naranjos, which is located just off the main street and is home to the 16th-century town hall For more contemporary fashions, Puerto Banus has all the top international designer stores. Which also makes you enjoy all the exclusive cars and big yachts, the beach clubs all over the Marbella coast line.

In terms of eating out, Marbella’s gastronomic scene is second to none, with everything from vegetarian and vegan cafes, to beachfront chiringuitos, and Michelin-starred restaurantsincluding Spanish cooking star Dani Garcia’s – a feast for foodies.

And of course the beaches are second to none – most visitors come to Marbella to enjoy the sun, sea and sand, which has been drawing expatriate communities since the 1950s when Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe fell in love with the place and built a beachfront house, drawing all the starriest Hollywood celebs, which was the establising of the exclusive Marbella Club Hotel. Worth a visit, together with the luxury resort next door, Puente Romano resort. Which includes, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, chiringuitos etc. A gem in Marbella.

If your visit inspires you to consider living in Marbella, have a look at the neighbourhoods or districts that make this such a charming place to live or perhaps visit on an excursion and decide afterwards. Don’t miss Puerto Banus.