Primera Parada: Málaga✈️
Our flight to Málaga departed from Rotterdam Airport, one of the smaller and more manageable airports in the Netherlands. The experience of going through airport security was pleasantly quick and efficient, a contrast to the often hectic and crowded scenes at Schiphol. The relaxed atmosphere made for a stress-free start to our journey.
Upon landing at Málaga Airport, we were greeted by the warm Spanish sun and the vibrant energy of the Costa del Sol. We made our way to a small shuttle bus that transported us to the car rental facility.
We picked up our rental car, eager to begin the next leg of our adventure. With our luggage securely loaded and our route planned, we set off on the scenic drive to Manilva, excited to explore all that this beautiful region has to offer.
Rumbo a Manivla🚗
Manilva is an hour drive away from Málaga, offering a scenic route through the charming Andalusian landscape. This small yet captivating municipality is situated on the coast at the southwesternmost edge of the province of Málaga, right on the border with the Province of Cádiz. Nestled in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Manilva boasts a unique blend of cultural and historical influences.
Belonging to the comarca of Costa del Sol Occidental, Manilva is renowned for its stunning coastline, picturesque vineyards, and rich cultural heritage. The town is characterized by its whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of southern Spain. The proximity to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean adds to its allure, offering breathtaking views and a variety of seaside activities.
The first day we decided to explore the area where would stay the entire vacation. We spend our nights at Holiday Village Terrazas Costa del Sol. Its a park which located on the hills, it’s best accessible by car and they have plenty of parking space to always place your nearby their apartments.
Manilva’s location makes it an ideal spot for exploring the diverse attractions of the Costa del Sol, while also providing a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist hotspots. The area is dotted with charming local shops, traditional tapas bars, and inviting restaurants where visitors can savor the flavors of Andalusian cuisine. Whether you’re drawn to its beautiful beaches, historical sites, or the warm hospitality of its residents, Manilva promises a memorable and enriching experience.
Mercado Atarazanas 
Now that we’ve acclimated to our surroundings it’s time to visit our first big city, Málaga! After we parked our car we visited the Mercado Atarazanas, it’s a covered central market where the people are proudly presenting their food.
The market’s lively atmosphere provided a delightful sensory experience, offering a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions and daily life of Málaga. We strolled past stalls adorned with ripe fruits, fragrant herbs, and intricately displayed tapas, each offering a taste of the region’s gastronomic heritage. Engaging with the friendly vendors, we learned about the origin of their offerings and recommendations for must-try local specialties.
Málaga Cathedral 
After the food market we visited The Cathedral of Málaga, known locally as “La Manquita” (the One-Armed Lady), is a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Its construction began in the 16th century and continued for over 200 years, resulting in a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The cathedral’s impressive façade, intricate interior, and towering vaults make it a must-visit landmark in the heart of Málaga’s historic center.
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OXO, Video Game Museum🕹️
The OXO Video Game Museum in Málaga is a nostalgic haven for gamers of all ages. Located in the vibrant city center, it houses a comprehensive collection of video game consoles, arcade machines, and memorabilia spanning several decades. Interactive exhibits and retro gaming stations allow visitors to relive the evolution of gaming culture, making it a must-see attraction for gaming enthusiasts visiting Málaga.
Before you enter the actual museum you will get a really cool introduction in a room with projectors covering every surface.
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Gibraltar 
Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory on Spain’s southern coast, is renowned for its iconic rock formation dominating the landscape. Known as the Rock of Gibraltar, it offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Strait of Gibraltar. The territory’s unique blend of British and Mediterranean cultures, duty-free shopping, and the famous Barbary macaques draw tourists seeking history, nature, and a touch of British charm.
You have two options to see the top of Gibraltar, and both will require money. Now for a more challenging experience you can hike 2,6KM on the Mediterranean Steps via Martin’s Path and it will cost you £13 per person to enter the nature reserve. The less challenging alternative is taking a cable car which sets you back £19 for a return ticket.
Because of the hot temperatures and humid conditions we’ve chosen the cable car. It doesn’t take long to get up the rock. Once you’re on the cable car top station you can already see some of the monkeys roaming around. Now they still remain wild animals so you do have be careful. They may react violently and have been known to attack and inflict serious bites
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Marbella🏖️
Marbella, nestled on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is a luxurious Mediterranean resort town famed for its pristine beaches, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Its historic old town, adorned with narrow cobblestone streets and charming squares, contrasts with the modernity of its marinas and beach clubs. Marbella’s allure lies in its blend of relaxation, cultural richness, and glamorous lifestyle, attracting visitors seeking sun-soaked indulgence.
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Estepona 
Estepona, situated on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, offers a more relaxed and authentic Andalusian experience compared to its neighboring cities. We have eaten very tasty paella on the beach at this location!
This small city is known for its charming old town with colorful flower-filled streets and traditional Spanish architecture, Estepona retains a laid-back atmosphere. It boasts beautiful beaches, a picturesque promenade, and a thriving culinary scene featuring fresh seafood and local dishes. Estepona appeals to travelers seeking a blend of tranquility, culture, and coastal beauty.
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Ronda 
Ronda, is a historic and picturesque town located in the Andalusian region, perched dramatically atop a deep gorge known as El Tajo. This breathtaking natural chasm divides the town into the old Moorish quarter and the more modern part, connected by the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Now besides the “new” bridge, Ronda is known for it’s bullfighting. The town is home to one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, the Plaza de Toros, which is a symbol of Ronda’s bullfighting heritage and hosts an annual bullfighting festival.
We also visited La Casa del Rey Moro (House of the Moorish King) dates from the beginning on the 18th century. We visited the gardens, and they provide access to one of the most interesting features from Moorish Ronda.
After entering a doorway in the garden, several hundred steps take the visitor down into a Moorish mine that was used to draw water from the Guadalevin river during times of sieges and civil wars, with a human line of Christian slaves being the unfortunate people who had to carry out this arduous work.
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Selwo Aventura🦒
We also visited Selwo Aventura which is a captivating wildlife and adventure park nestled in Estepona. The park covers over 100 hectares, offers an immersive safari experience, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with a diverse array of animals in settings designed to mimic their natural habitats.
The park features exciting activities such as zip-lining, archery, and crossing rope bridges, adding an extra layer of excitement for guests of all ages. These adventure options complement the wildlife experiences, making for a well-rounded day of fun and discovery.
The park is divided into several themed zones, each representing different regions of the world. From the African Plains to the Madagascar Territory and Bird Canyon, each area offers a unique perspective on the diverse ecosystems and species found across the globe.
