Nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves mountains, Benahavís is a hidden treasure on the Costa del Sol. This lovely village combines peaceful countryside living with luxury, making it a great place for both residents and tourists.
Known for its excellent golf facilities and fantastic food scene, Benahavís is famous for its delicious cuisine. With a high number of restaurants, about thirty per square kilometer, Benahavís offers a variety of top-quality food that has earned it the title of the best place to eat in Andalucía. This recognition has even led to the opening of a respected cooking and hotel management school in the village, showing that it is a special destination for food lovers.
It’s important to note that Benahavís is not just a village but also a municipality. The village itself is located 7km inland from the A-7 coast road, nestled between Estepona and Marbella, perched around 500 meters above sea level. The municipality of Benahavís stretches from areas like Los Flamingos and Atalaya in Estepona to La Quinta near Marbella.
Getting to and from Benahavís is convenient due to its strategic location and excellent transport links. You can easily reach both domestic and international destinations by road, rail or air. Málaga-Costa del Sol International Airport (AGP) is just a short 55-minute drive east of Benahavís, while Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) is an hour’s drive to the west, offering quick connections to various destinations worldwide.
Travelers can explore the Iberian Peninsula by train, starting from Málaga’s María Zambrano or Algeciras railway stations, both less than an hour away by car. Spain boasts Europe’s largest high-speed train network, ensuring swift and comfortable journeys from Málaga to popular cities like Sevilla, Granada, Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.
In Benahavís village, the bus station at the entrance provides links to nearby San Pedro de Alcántara and Marbella, with plenty of taxis available as well. The wider municipality boasts a reliable and affordable public transportation system connecting Estepona, Marbella, San Pedro de Alcántara and beyond. Benahavís enjoys excellent connectivity through modern highways, including toll roads like the AP-7 and the scenic N-340 (A-7) running along the coastline. 7) running along the coastline.
The history of Benahavís unfolds towards the end of the 11th century, marked by its establishment by the Arabs. Linked closely with the Arabic heritage of the Costa del Sol, particularly with Marbella, to which it belonged until receiving the “Carta Puebla” from Philip II in 1572. Montemayor Castle, predating the construction of Benahavís, played a pivotal role in the battles among the various Arab rulers in Andalusia due to its strategic location. This stronghold was fiercely contested by military factions of the era for many years. Its commanding position, overlooking up to a hundred kilometers of coastline, including the African coast, proved invaluable during times of rampant piracy and invasion.
Within Benahavís’ expanse lie five watchtowers, one of which stands in the Parque de las Leoneras, near the roundabout at the village’s entrance. The town derives its name from Havis, the ruler of Montemayor Castle. Specifically, Benahavís is predominantly Arabic (Ben al Havis), signifying “son of Havis.”
The strategic significance of the castle caught the eye of the Catholic Monarchs, who aimed to conquer the remaining Moorish territories in the southern Iberian Peninsula. While Isabel and Ferdinand’s troops had already besieged the Nasrid kingdom of Granada, they opted to secure the adjacent province of Malaga first.
On June 11, 1485, Benahavís, alongside the localities of Daidin, Montemayor Castle, Cortes Fortress, Oxen, Arboto, Almachor, Tramores, and Calalui Fort (the Castle of Light) within Marbella’s district, were handed over to King Ferdinand the Catholic by Mohammed Abuneza following the capitulation agreement. The Catholic King entrusted their guardianship to Don Pedro Villandrado, Count of Ribadeo, who became Benahavís’ first Christian mayor. This led to a centuries-long dispute between Benahavís and Marbella, culminating in Benahavís attaining full autonomy as a distinct community.
Renowned as one of Spain’s wealthiest municipalities, Benahavis is adorned with upscale developments, including prestigious golf resorts like La Quinta and Los Arqueros, as well as the exclusive enclave of La Zagaleta, home to some of Spain’s most luxurious properties. Notably, the opulent Villa Padierna, featuring a 5-star GL hotel and golf resort, once hosted former First Lady Michelle Obama and her family.
Despite its modest village size, Benahavis encompasses diverse landscapes, featuring expansive mountain ranges, lush river valleys and enchanting woodlands, making it a sought-after destination for property investment. The harmonious blend of natural beauty, numerous golf courses and exclusive residences, coupled with low-density development, positions Benahavis as a prime real estate hotspot on the Costa del Sol, especially favoured by international buyers seeking a peaceful retreat near Marbella.
With a population of over 7,100 residents, Benahavis is a melting pot of cultures, with nearly 4,500 expatriates calling it home, a significant portion being British nationals.
The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, basking in over 320 days of sunshine annually, offering a pleasant contrast to the slightly cooler winters and warmer summers compared to neighbouring Marbella and Estepona.
LA ZAGALETA
Known for its privacy and luxury, La Zagaleta is an exclusive haven attracting those seeking seclusion. Surrounded by mountains, its expansive villas provide a serene escape from the coastal buzz yet remain easily accessible by a short drive. Homes here often feature stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and mountains, with prices typically starting around €3 million.
EL MADROÑAL
El Madroñal, located near La Zagaleta, offers a variety of villa styles and mansions. While not as luxurious as La Zagaleta, it is prized for its peaceful ambiance and proximity to the coast and essential amenities.
MONTE HALCONES
Perched on the hills overlooking Marbella, Monte Halcones is a mature residential community blending apartments, villas and townhouses. With easy access to shopping and dining, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat away from the bustling coast while still being conveniently located.
LA HEREDIA
Close to Monte Halcones, La Heredia is a village-style residential complex with charming features. Properties here offer splendid views of the mountains, countryside or sea, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a village-like lifestyle.
LA QUINTA
Golf enthusiasts flock to La Quinta for its premier golf offerings, with three interconnected 9-hole courses within the Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa. From affordable apartments to lavish villas, properties here cater to diverse preferences and tastes, offering picturesque views and a range of architectural styles.
LOS ARQUEROS
Los Arqueros is a popular choice for property buyers, offering various housing options from apartments to townhouses with unique architectural styles. Conveniently accessible from different points, it showcases a mix of traditional and modern designs set amidst a golf course.
LOS FLAMINGOS
In Los Flamingos, residents enjoy access to three top-tier golf courses and luxurious amenities, including the prestigious Villa Padierna Hotel. With a range of residential options from contemporary apartments to luxurious villas, this enclave offers panoramic views and a tranquil lifestyle just minutes from the coast.
EL PARAÍSO ALTO
El Paraíso Alto, nestled between Benahavís and Estepona, features villas, apartments and townhouses catering to various preferences. Offering convenient access to amenities and the coast, this neighbourhood is a favoured choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the bustling resorts.
For beach enthusiasts, the sandy shores of Marbella and Estepona beckon, just a 10-minute drive away, providing a range of beach experiences, from family-friendly stretches in San Pedro de Alcántara to chic beach clubs in Puerto Banús. Additionally, the vibrant Laguna Village offers a luxurious beach club experience at Purobeach Marbella, complemented by boutique shopping and gourmet dining options.
Whether you’re a golf aficionado, culture enthusiast or culinary connoisseur, Benahavis offers a diverse array of activities. With a plethora of golf courses in close proximity, including the prestigious Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club and Marbella Club Golf Resort, golfing enthusiasts can revel in top-notch facilities and stunning landscapes. Cultural events and traditional festivities, such as the annual Benahavis Fair and Holy Week processions, showcase the rich heritage and vibrant community spirit of this idyllic village.
Culinary delights await in Benahavis, known as the Gastronomic Corner of the Costa del Sol, boasting a wealth of restaurants serving traditional and innovative dishes. From succulent marinated pork fillets to fresh seafood delicacies, the village’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. Additionally, Benahavis offers a delightful shopping experience, with a variety of small shops catering to everyday needs, while larger supermarkets like Mercadona provide convenient shopping options for residents and visitors alike.
Benahavis is a hidden gem on the Costa del Sol, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, luxury living, cultural richness and culinary delights. Whether you seek a serene retreat, an active lifestyle, or a vibrant community atmosphere, Benahavis is sure to captivate your heart and soul. Embrace the allure of this enchanting municipality and discover the endless possibilities that await in this picturesque corner of Southern Spain.
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