Driving from Marbella to Casares
To reach Casares from Estepona, drive west along the N-340. After passing Costa Natura and just beyond the km 147 mark, turn right towards Casares. The road is narrow and unmarked but in fair condition. As you travel the 14 km (9 miles) inland on this minor road, you’ll notice a stark contrast to the coastal concrete ribbon. Initially, eucalyptus trees line both sides of the road. Then, the rolling hills of the Sierra Bermeja come into view, dotted with cortijos (country estates). The scenery is breathtaking and well worth the journey.
The Road to Casares
After 8 km (5 mi), the road narrows and rises among cork oaks. On one of the bends is the rustic Venta Victoria. A little further on, you’ll enjoy good views across to the coast and after 3 km (1 ¼ mile) around a bend, you’ll find the town of Casares. The town is a confection of white cubes on a mountain spur topped by the outline of an alcazar. Several roadside restaurant-bars, all with pleasant terraces, overlook the town.
Parking and Exploring Casares
Further on, turn left and do the locals a favour by parking at the entrance to their town. Climb the narrow uphill streets to see what remains of the Moorish castle or rather, as the ruins don’t amount to much, to check out an excellent vantage point. This is the site from which hundreds of Moriscos – descendants of Moors who revolted against their Christian rulers in the early 16th century – were hurled to their deaths.
Casares is a picturesque town of white houses and narrow streets that wind up the hillside to the ruins of an old castle. The town has a rich history and is home to several historic landmarks, including the Church of San Sebastian and the Birthplace of Blas Infante. There are also several hiking trails in the surrounding hills that offer stunning views of the countryside.
Onwards to Manilva
Back on the road that skirts the town, follow signposts to Manilva and you’ll start to appreciate a different view of Casares. Soon you’ll see the vineyards of Manilva, known for both the quality of its grapes and its lively vino de terreno. Near a quarry on the town’s edge, take a track on the left (signposted ‘Baños Romanos’) to reach the Roman Baths. From the outside, they don’t look like much but inside there are Roman arches and invitingly clear water. Julius Caesar visited these baths and locals like to believe that its waters’ healing powers were responsible for curing his skin problem.
Manilva is on the southwestern coast of Spain, in the region of Costa del Sol Occidental. The town is known for its vineyards and lively local wine, as well as its proximity to several historic landmarks such as the Roman Baths. There are also several attractions in Manilva, including castles, historic sites, promenades, and churches
Manilva’s Roman Oasis
The Roman Oasis is actually a Mini Golf and Bar. It is open from May to October and offers a relaxed tropical atmosphere for visitors to enjoy a round of golf or lunch. Every Friday from June to September, there is an upgraded barbecue and live music for visitors to dance the night away.
Manilva itself is unremarkable but you may want to visit a back street bodega (wine cellar) to sample a glass of local wine.
Puerto Duquesa
Afterwards, continue to the N-340 and turn right until you reach the turn off for Puerto Duquesa. This is another of Costa del Sol’s pueblo ports with boutique-style shops, bars and restaurants as well as an array of luxury yachts and cruisers.
Puerto Duquesa is a marina located on the Costa del Sol in the municipality of Manilva, Málaga, Spain. It is managed indirectly by the Public Ports Agency of Andalusia and offers a range of activities for visitors, including sports and leisure activities. The marina has 328 berths and offers a range of services for boaters.
Conclusion
Driving from Marbella to Casares is a scenic journey that takes you through the beautiful countryside of Andalusia. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque towns and villages, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. The road is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it a pleasant drive.
As you approach Casares, the road narrows and rises among cork oaks. On one of the bends is the rustic Venta Victoria. A little further on, you’ll enjoy good views across to the coast and after 3 km (1 ¼ mile) around a bend, you’ll find the town of Casares. Several roadside restaurant-bars, all with pleasant terraces, overlook the town.
Overall, the drive from Marbella to Casares is a wonderful experience that offers stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture and history. It’s definitely worth taking the time to make this journey and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.