When people talk about moving to the Costa del Sol, it’s usually the old faves that spring to mind, Marbella for those with a lot of cash and then the classic holiday destinations of Fuengirola and Benalmadena. There isn’t a lot of fuss about Duquesa, many people don’t even know that it exists. That’s the great thing about it. It has so much going for it that only those in on the secret know about it.

Duquesa comes under Manilva which is the last municipality of Malaga before you enter Cadiz. Within the triangle there is the charming white pueblo named Manilva, the fishing village of Sabinillas, Castillo and Duquesa itself which oozes both holiday and lifestyle appeal. Be careful not to overlook the tiny village of Castillo which nestles behind the eighteenth century castle soon to become a local museum featuring local artefacts depicting traditional local life. Castillo has some of the best sea restaurants on the Costa del Sol and people travel from as far as Marbella for freshly caught fish.

There is a regular bus service which covers the whole triangle but everywhere is within walking distance.  Leisure time centres around the port where there’s every type of restaurant and a multitude of bars. For convenience there’s also a mini market and newsagents. Nevertheless, there are plenty of supermarkets  for your weekly shop in nearby Sabinillas. In Sabinillas, you will also find the doctor’s surgeries, chemists, banks and post office.

There’s some of the best blue flag beaches on the coast and great chiringuitos where you will spend a fraction of what you would spend in Marbella. The beaches are never crowded and traffic is never a problem as, although it is a tourist destination, it never feels congested. Everywhere is within walking distance and you always see people out and about walking their dogs or pushing children in prams. It is perfect for children as there is everything that they enjoy with so many parks scattered along the beach and often conveniently nearby to the chringuitos so you can enjoy lunch whilst your children play safely in the park or in the sea. In the evening too, there are always lots of families out and about strolling with their children who can ride their bikes along the promenade or enjoy ice creams at the port. The marina is closed to passing traffic which makes it very safe and relaxing for pedestrians. Since it is slower paced than other coastal towns, it is ideal for families and retirees alike.

Within the Duquesa urbanisations there is a pretty courtyard called Montes de la Duquesa. Here you will find places to have a coffee, a meal, buy bread, have your hair done and even buy gifts and cards. Whilst the area continues to progress, it still retains its authenticity. There are no high rise hotels or any of the architectural monstrosities that you might see in other parts of the coast so the majority of residents enjoy either country, sea views or golf course views from at least one viewpoint in their homes. It is a lovely little part of the coast to live in and I am sure that the people who live here will agree.