"Our model is not about mass tourism; we want to stand out as an exclusive, family-friendly destination" – CSN News

Manilva has been able to create and maintain an unique tourism identity in the Costa del Sol. What are its key strengths?

Our town’s greatest strength is our people, and of course the uniqueness of a region that has unmatched spots. Manilva’s beaches, gastronomy vineyards, arts, culture and history are all reasons to visit this town and stay there. Our town is not only a great holiday destination, but can also be a second home for those who want to settle in.

How important is Manilva’s residential tourism?

We are conducting studies in order to get accurate data and establish regulations. Recent estimates indicate that there are currently over 2,500 properties suitable for this type tourism. We are, however, working on both our own study and regulating the industry.

How did Manilva manage to keep its village identity and turn it into a tourist attraction while evolving from a tiny town into a destination?

Manilva is a relatively new area of the Costa del Sol. Our main goal is sustainability and planned growth, as I said earlier. This also sets us apart from the other models. Our approach doesn’t seek mass tourism but rather attracts individuals or families who see us as a distinctive destination with a strong identity—exclusive, different and family-friendly.

Manilva was a pioneer for wine tourism when it opened the Manilva Vineyards Interpretation Centre. What value does this sector bring to Manilva?

Manilva, as I say, is unique. Just like our vineyards, and the small businesses that have sprung up around them. CIVIMA’s interpretation centre is an important showcase for the vineyards and wines of Spain. We must improve and expand it while also marketing our wines that have already become a benchmark, both for tourism and visitors.

How would you rate Manilva’s presence at Fitur, the most recent tourism fair in Madrid,?

This is an event that everyone should attend, as it represents the Costa del Sol. Our municipality will certainly be attracting a lot attention. Our tourism promotion is now focused on other platforms that offer a more personalized approach. Fitur is still on our radar, but our focus will be on the key destinations that match our local tourism strategy.

What are Manilva’s expectations for the upcoming tourist season?

The work we do to create quality hotel accommodation reflects our goal to continue improving. Casa Club de Duquesa is soon to open, and will offer 25 rooms, including golf rooms, on a course that has been revamped. This course is destined to be the benchmark for golfers along the Costa del Sol. I can tell that we’re working hard to promote tourism based around culture and history. We are creating a variety of offers to help us achieve this.

What future projects has the town hall in mind to improve Manilva further?

I believe there is little more to add – our offering is unique, and visitors recognise that. The role of the town hall is to provide parking for our municipality and create synergies. The rest is simple… Manilva is one of a kind.