Areas / Manilva-Casares
Manilva–Casares, Natural Beauty, Seaside Living, and Authentic Lifestyle.
Tucked between the glamour of Marbella and the natural wilderness of the Andalusian interior, Manilva and Casares offer a refreshing escape from the busier corners of the Costa del Sol. These neighbouring areas are known for their authentic charm, peaceful beaches, and stunning views that stretch from rolling hills to the Mediterranean Sea — and on clear days, all the way to Gibraltar and the coast of Africa.
Manilva blends seaside living with a touch of tradition, offering quiet residential zones, a working marina at Puerto de la Duquesa, and miles of uncrowded beaches. Just inland, Casares captivates with its dramatic hilltop village — a whitewashed jewel suspended above the valley — and nearby golf resorts and country clubs that merge rustic beauty with understated luxury.
Together, Manilva and Casares represent the quieter, more grounded side of the Costa del Sol. They attract those who value space, nature, and authenticity — yet still want access to excellent golf, beaches, and a growing number of high-quality homes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday base or a tranquil full-time residence, this part of the coast offers an unbeatable blend of value, beauty, and quality of life.
What Makes Manilva-Casares Unique?
Manilva and Casares stand apart from the more developed stretches of the Costa del Sol by offering something that’s increasingly rare on the southern coast of Spain: space, serenity, and authentic Andalusian character — all within reach of major hubs like Marbella, Sotogrande, and Gibraltar.
Here’s what makes this area truly special:
Unspoiled Nature & Open Space
Rolling hills, protected green zones, and quiet beaches define the landscape. Casares Pueblo is one of the region’s most iconic white villages, perched on a dramatic hillside, while the coastline remains refreshingly undeveloped in parts — offering a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere on the Costa del Sol.Authentic Andalusian Charm
From narrow cobbled streets and family-run tapas bars to centuries-old architecture and local festivals, Casares and Manilva retain their Spanish soul. Unlike more tourist-driven towns, life here still follows a traditional rhythm.Seaside Simplicity with Lifestyle Access
Manilva’s Sabinillas and La Duquesa areas offer beachfront living with an understated, laid-back vibe. The marina at Puerto de la Duquesa provides dining, sailing, and nightlife without the crowds of Marbella or Puerto Banús — making it ideal for relaxed coastal living.Undervalued Property Potential
Compared to neighbouring areas, Manilva and Casares offer exceptional value for money. Buyers can find sea-view apartments, townhouses, and even private villas at significantly lower prices — with strong growth potential as infrastructure and demand continue to improve.World-Class Golf in a Rural Setting
Casares is home to the famed Finca Cortesin, one of Europe’s top golf and lifestyle resorts, host to the 2023 Solheim Cup. It blends natural beauty with discreet luxury, drawing high-end buyers looking for low-density living and five-star amenities.
Manilva and Casares are unique not because they try to compete with Marbella — but because they offer a completely different experience: grounded, peaceful, and genuine. Perfect for those who want the Costa del Sol lifestyle, minus the flash.
Lifestyle in Manilva-Casares
The lifestyle in Manilva and Casares is shaped by simplicity, nature, and a deep sense of authenticity. Life moves at a slower, more deliberate pace here — one where mornings are spent walking along quiet beaches or hiking through olive groves, and evenings often end with a glass of wine on a terrace overlooking the sea or mountains.
This is a corner of the Costa del Sol where quality of life takes precedence over status, and the experience is more grounded than glamorous — yet no less rewarding. The area attracts a blend of Spanish locals, international residents, and second-home owners who appreciate space, natural beauty, and an understated lifestyle.
Outdoor living is a major draw. Casares offers spectacular hiking routes, hilltop viewpoints, and cycling trails that meander through unspoiled countryside. Along the coast, Manilva’s long promenade and sandy beaches are ideal for walking, sunbathing, and watersports. Golf lovers are also drawn here, with Finca Cortesin providing a world-class golf and wellness experience in a tranquil, elegant setting.
Wellbeing and balance are central to daily life. Local markets, wellness retreats, and easy access to fresh, seasonal produce support a healthy lifestyle. The area also has a growing wellness scene, with spas, yoga classes, and countryside retreats just minutes from the coast.
Community life in both Manilva and Casares is friendly and low-key. Residents often gather at local restaurants and plazas, where children play freely and neighbours still greet each other by name. While not as cosmopolitan as Marbella, the area’s international population is growing, creating a warm, multicultural environment without the crowds.
And despite its peaceful character, Manilva–Casares is well-connected. You’re just 15–25 minutes from Sotogrande and Estepona, 40 minutes from Marbella, and an hour from Málaga or Gibraltar airports — making it easy to enjoy the broader Costa del Sol when desired.
In short, Manilva and Casares offer a lifestyle rooted in tranquility, nature, and tradition — ideal for those seeking space to breathe, live well, and connect with the essence of southern Spain.
Real Estate in Manilva-Casares
Manilva and Casares offer one of the most attractive and accessible property markets on the Costa del Sol — combining scenic landscapes, traditional character, and pockets of understated luxury. The area remains a hidden gem for buyers looking for space, views, and value without compromising on lifestyle or quality.
You’ll find:
Modern villas with sea and mountain views, often located in quiet, secure communities
Traditional Andalusian townhouses and country homes, especially in and around Casares Pueblo
Contemporary apartments and penthouses near the beach, golf courses, and the marina at Puerto de la Duquesa
Luxury townhouses within golf resorts or boutique developments with communal pools and gardens
High-end branded residences and villas in Finca Cortesin — among the most exclusive offerings on the southern coast
The area is divided into several distinct zones, each offering its own lifestyle and appeal:
La Duquesa & Sabinillas (Manilva Coast)
A relaxed beachfront area with low-rise apartment complexes, family villas, and a charming marina. Popular with holidaymakers and second-home owners seeking a laid-back coastal feel.
Casares Costa
Stretching along the shoreline, this area features modern developments, golf communities, and sea-view homes — offering an excellent balance between price, quality, and location.
Finca Cortesin
One of Spain’s most prestigious golf and lifestyle resorts. Home to five-star branded residences, exclusive villas, and frontline golf properties — all with exceptional privacy, service, and design. Prices here reach into the multi-millions.
Casares Pueblo
A postcard-perfect white village perched above the coast. Offers character-rich homes, charming townhouses, and spectacular views — ideal for those seeking an authentic Andalusian setting.
Hillside Estates
Above both Manilva and Casares, you’ll find tranquil villa communities and rustic fincas with panoramic views. These areas attract buyers looking for space, peace, and a strong connection to nature — all just minutes from the beach.
Whether you’re seeking a coastal apartment, a hillside retreat, or a luxury golf villa, Manilva and Casares offer a rare mix of lifestyle, value, and natural beauty — making it one of the most promising investment locations on the Costa del Sol.
Who Lives in Manilva-Casares?
Manilva and Casares attract a diverse yet like-minded community of residents who value tranquility, nature, and a more authentic way of life on the Costa del Sol. Unlike the flashier resorts to the east, these areas appeal to people seeking space, simplicity, and a more relaxed pace — without giving up comfort or quality.
You’ll find:
Retirees from across Europe, particularly from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia, who are drawn to the region’s calm atmosphere, mild climate, and affordable property prices.
Second-home owners and seasonal residents, many of whom spend winters or extended holidays in beachfront apartments or hillside villas, enjoying the peace and quiet while still being close to Marbella, Estepona, and Sotogrande.
Golf and wellness enthusiasts, especially in and around the prestigious Finca Cortesin resort, who value low-density living, scenic surroundings, and access to high-end facilities.
Local Spanish families and working professionals, contributing to the area’s strong community feel — especially in the more traditional town centres and inland villages.
Young families and remote workers, increasingly relocating from larger cities or abroad, attracted by the balance of quality of life, nature, and improving infrastructure.
The atmosphere in Manilva–Casares is low-key and friendly. Residents greet each other by name, enjoy local markets and village festivals, and share a strong appreciation for the area’s natural beauty and slower rhythm. It’s a place where people come not to be seen — but to live well.
Investment & Property Value
Manilva and Casares have experienced steady growth in recent years, especially as buyers look beyond the more crowded hotspots of Marbella and Estepona. The area’s appeal lies in its spacious plots, peaceful environment, and exceptional value — all within a short drive of key Costa del Sol destinations. Demand has increased notably post-pandemic, with buyers seeking more privacy, open space, and natural surroundings.
High-end developments like Finca Cortesin and well-priced new-build communities along the coast have pushed average prices upward, while still offering significant value compared to neighbouring towns. With limited supply in prime hillside and coastal locations, long-term prospects remain strong.
Key reasons to invest:
Stable and steadily appreciating property market, especially in coastal and golf resort zones
Attractive rental yields, particularly in beachside apartments and golf villas near Finca Cortesin
Limited inventory of new-builds in prime hillside or sea-view areas, supporting long-term demand
Golden Visa-eligible properties available in several developments (for €500,000+ purchases)
Turnkey homes and land for bespoke builds in quiet, scenic settings with strong growth potential
For buyers seeking value, lifestyle, and future upside in a less-saturated coastal setting, Manilva–Casares offers one of the smartest investment opportunities on the Costa del Sol.
Manilva-Casares Area
Use the interactive map below to explore the unique districts that make up Manilva and Casares — from the peaceful beachfront of La Duquesa to the exclusive hillside estates surrounding Finca Cortesin and the whitewashed charm of Casares Pueblo. Whether you’re searching for a contemporary sea-view apartment, a golf-side villa, or a traditional village home with Andalusian character, our area map will guide you through the most desirable zones in this serene and scenic part of the Costa del Sol.
Summary
Manilva and Casares offer a rare combination on the Costa del Sol — unspoiled natural beauty, authentic Andalusian charm, and excellent value for money. With quiet beaches, dramatic hilltop views, and a slower pace of life, this region appeals to those seeking peace, privacy, and a more grounded lifestyle.
From coastal apartments in La Duquesa to luxury villas in Finca Cortesin and traditional homes in Casares Pueblo, the property market is diverse, affordable, and full of long-term potential. Whether you’re investing, retiring, or relocating, Manilva–Casares provides a more relaxed, authentic alternative to the region’s more commercialised towns — without sacrificing access, quality, or comfort.
For those seeking space, nature, and a different rhythm of life on the Costa del Sol, Manilva and Casares remain two of its most promising and peaceful destinations.
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