The 10 best holiday apartments in Manilva

Manilva is a municipality on the coast of Málaga, right next to Estepona and a few minutes from Gibraltar. Unlike other destinations in the area, here tourism is concentrated in two distinct areas: the town centre and the Duquesa area. The town centre, up high, retains a more traditional and quiet atmosphere, with narrow streets and sea views from some spots. The Duquesa area, next to the marina and the beaches of Sabinillas, has most of the apartment and villa offer, and it's where you'll find more services, restaurants and activity. If you're looking for a beach on foot and marina life, Duquesa is your place; if you prefer silence and somewhat lower prices, the town centre or the inland residential developments will suit you better.

The difference between some areas and others is especially noticeable in access to the beach and in the nightlife. In Duquesa and its surroundings, such as San Luis de Sabinillas, you have a promenade, beach bars and supermarkets at hand. In the old town, on the other hand, the leisure offer is more limited and you'll need a car to go down to the coast. There are also residential developments with a communal pool, such as those around the Duquesa golf course, which are ideal if you're travelling as a family or looking for peace and quiet. The 492 accommodations available in the area range from one-bedroom apartments to holiday homes and villas with a garden, so the choice depends on whether you prioritise proximity to the sea or space and privacy.

As for prices, the average cost per night is around 160 euros, although you can find options from 90 euros if you book in advance or outside high season. The months of July and August are the most expensive and have the highest occupancy; May, June and September offer good weather and more reasonable rates. To get there, the most practical option is to fly to Málaga or Gibraltar and rent a car, because public transport between the residential developments is scarce. If you stay in Duquesa, you can get around on foot or by bicycle, but to visit the town centre or the nearby beaches you'll need your own vehicle. Before booking, check whether the apartment includes a parking space, air conditioning and whether the pool is private or communal; it's also worth looking at recent reviews about noise, because some areas of Duquesa are close to entertainment venues. And always check the cancellation policy, because many owners require a deposit or have strict conditions in summer.