La Manlia Spain

Tucked in the foothills of the Sierra Blanca mountain range, this stunning two-bedroom apartment is the perfect place to spend long summer days relaxing by the pool and soaking up the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Situated inside a secure, gated community within the eastern section of Nueva Andalucia, La Manlia enjoys an elevated position on one of the higher floors of an attractive apartment block. Accessed by a communal elevator, you enter the apartment to be greeted by a stunning view through the space to the terrace and vistas beyond. Bright and spacious, the open-plan living space has been elegantly finished, with a natural palette and well-designed furniture. To one side is a large sofa, whilst the other end features a contemporary kitchen with a neat island surface and premium built-in appliances. A floor-to-ceiling sliding door spans the length of the room, framing the wonderful view across the surrounding landscape. The door can be left open all day, allowing a cool breeze to circulate the space and creating the perfect integrated indoor-outdoor living area.
The exterior space is superb, with a well-crafted arrangement that invites you to enjoy it at all times of the day. The south-facing terrace maintains the same modern and minimal feel, while a number of plants bring a natural edge and provide a vibrant addition of colour. Sheltered by the overhang, a dining table sits immediately in front of the kitchen, making it easy to serve the table and enjoy a home-cooked dinner in the fresh air. The generous outdoor pool enjoys views down to the sea and is perfect for cooling off. Take a refreshing swim to escape the heat, or prop yourself up at the far end with a glass of wine and watch the sun set below the horizon at the end of the day. There are also a couple of sun-loungers, inviting you to recline with a book or simply lay back and take in the clear blue skies.
The two bedrooms are generously proportioned and enjoy plenty of natural light. Both feature large double beds, built-in wardrobes and lovely en-suite bathrooms. They also have direct access out to the charming side terrace, which offers an arrangement of informal seating that is ideal for enjoying a quiet morning coffee or relaxing with a cold bottle of vino in a more secluded spot at the end of the day.Set slightly back from the coast, La Manlia is situated at the fringe of the Nueva Andalucia area of Marbella, a luxury district that rises into the hills before being succeeded by the mountain’s rich vegetation. Adopting typical Andalusian architecture mixed with modern styles, the new residences are interspersed with splendid gardens and trees, and it is a renowned spot for golfers with five immaculate courses nearby.
The natural landscape is simply stunning and is easily accessible from the apartment. The rocky mountains of Sierra Blanca offer numerous scenic trails and paths, inviting you to explore the less visited areas of forests and valleys. At 1215ft above sea level, the impressive La Concha is a challenging but rewarding hike, with uninterrupted views from the summit that reaches down to the coast and, on a clear day, stretch to Gibraltar and the outline of Northern Africa. A bit further inland, Mirador de Juanar is a wonderful observation point and a much less demanding walk. Jump in the car and wind up the valley to be greeted by mountain goats and beautiful vistas as the road twists and turns through the forest. Another hidden inland spot is the charming Lago de los Tortugas. Just a 15-minute walk from the apartment, this attractive lake is popular in the summer when children swim in the water and families can enjoy a picnic. Watch out for the turtles!
To reach the golden beaches, a 15-minute drive brings you to the glorious San Pedro Beach. This long stretch of sand is a great place to spend the afternoon strolling along the gentle shore or taking a swim in the clear waters blue. A well-maintained promenade hugs the line of the beach, forming part of the distinctive 160km coastal path that spans the entire Malaga province. Popular with runners and cyclists, the path is newly paved and lined with swaying palm trees, creating a pleasant separation between the beach and the main road. Well-maintained public facilities are convenient for spending a day on the beach, whilst a number of beach bars and cafes are close by, perfect for enjoying a drink beneath the shade or sitting over a leisurely lunch whilst looking out to sea.
For a more glamorous experience, head up the coast to the trendy town of Puerto Banus. Developed in the 1970s, luxury yachts and sailboats pull up to moor in the harbour waters, letting their owners and guests step off to sample the fashion boutiques and dine in the exclusive restaurants along the marina. Wander around the streets and soak up the lively atmosphere, or enjoy a meal at one of the waterside restaurants whilst observing the daily activity of the marina. Known for entertaining, Puerto Banus has plenty to offer both day and night: Sinatra’s Bar is a great spot to enjoy the warm evening over a cocktail as the sun sets in the distance. For those looking for a party, head to Calle Ribera for bars and dance clubs that stay open until the early hours.
Whilst many of the surrounding beaches offer water sports and activities for all the family, a fun excursion is the Banus-Marbella Ferry. As an alternative to driving, spend the afternoon on the water and enjoy the coastline from a different perspective. Either stay onboard and simply enjoy the boat ride, or disembark in Marbella itself and take some time to explore the vibrant cultural city. Spend a few hours admiring the history and architecture, or stop for a lunch break and enjoy some local dishes. Located in the old town, Taberna La Nina del Pisto is traditionally decorated and serves up a variety of Spanish favourites, including an exceptional gazpacho. Another great spot is Bar El Estrecho. Tucked down a narrow alley, it can be hard to find, but this family-run establishment has been going since 1954 and offers traditional tapas plates of meat and seafood, such as sardinas al limon and a delicious ensalada de pulpo.At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning- Private chef/cook/catering- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge- Local day-trips or tours- Airport transfers- Babysitting/childcare services
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfill your requests!