Where is Benahavís? 
Benahavis, located at the western end of the Costa del Sol, is nestled slightly inland between Estepona and Marbella. With excellent connections, this municipality offers easy access to both national and international destinations in Malaga and other popular spots along the Costa del Sol.
What’s Benahavís?
The municipality spans a vast area of around 150km2, extending from the coastline to the mountains nestled between Marbella and Estepona. It stands out from other resorts on the Costa del Sol, as the serene and traditional village of Benahavis lies at its core, surrounded by mountains and preserving its Andalusian charm.
Benahavis ranks among the wealthiest municipalities in Spain, largely due to the numerous upscale developments that encircle the village. Notable golf resorts like La Quinta and Los Arqueros are part of Benahavis, along with La Zagaleta, an exclusive gated community featuring some of the priciest properties in the country. Additionally, the nearby Villa Padierna, which boasts a 5-star GL hotel and golf resort, welcomed Michelle Obama and her family in 2010.
How diverse is it?
The village may be tiny, but the municipality is vast. It boasts countless mountain ranges, river valleys, and forests, making it one of the most stunning spots on the Costa del Sol. With numerous Golf Courses and luxurious homes, the serene natural environment and low build density make Benahavis a highly desirable place to invest in property on the Costa del Sol, especially for expats seeking a tranquil retreat near Marbella.
What’s the population of Benahavís?
The population of Benahavis is just over 9.331 people.
How many foreigners live in Benahavís?
Like most of the resorts on the Costa del Sol, Benahavis is home to a lot of foreigners – nearly 65% in fact.
What’s the weather like in Benahavís?
Benahavis basks in the delightful weather that the Costa del Sol is renowned for, boasting around 320 sunny days each year. Nestled in the mountains, the village experiences slightly cooler winter temperatures compared to nearby Marbella and Estepona, while summers tend to be a bit warmer.
How do I get to Benahavis?
It's simple! Take the A-7175 road from the A-7 highway between San Pedro and Estepona (exit at Guadalmina) to reach the village. If you're on the AP-7 highway, exit at San Pedro and follow the signs for Benahavis. The journey should only take about 15 minutes.
How far is it to Malaga Airport from Benahavís?
Malaga Airport is 71km from the village. Allow about 50 minutes to get there.
How far is it to Gibraltar Airport from Benahavís?
Gibraltar Airport is a great option if you're traveling from the Costa del Sol to the UK, located approximately 70km away. Plan for an hour of travel time and factor in additional time for border controls.
How far is it to Marbella from Benahavís?
The well-known resorts of Puerto Banus and Marbella are around 20km away.
What are the main attractions in Benahavís?
Benahavis boasts a variety of attractions, with its natural surroundings taking the top spot. The village offers breathtaking views of mountains, woodlands, and rivers, making it a picturesque destination on the Costa del Sol. The charming streets and squares lined with whitewashed Andalusian houses add to its allure.
The Parque Torre Leoneras park, located at the southern end of the village, features the remains of a medieval tower and a large lake. While the Montemayor Castle, dating back to the 10th century, may be mostly in ruins, sections of the walls and the Queen’s Tower are still standing, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The panoramic views of the Costa del Sol from the castle are truly remarkable.
Visitors can also explore the bustling Sunday market, held near a shrine on the way to the village. This market is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with its car boot sale stalls attracting a diverse crowd. For those seeking adventure, the Guadalmina River provides thrilling canyoning opportunities, with waterfalls and plunge pools along the way. Additionally, a scenic river walk offers a chance to cross a stunning bridge and follow a traditional Moorish irrigation channel.
What are the beaches like near Benahavís?
The closest beaches to Benahavis can be found in Marbella and Estepona, just a short 10-minute drive away. You can enjoy family-friendly spots in San Pedro de Alcántara, lively beach clubs in Puerto Banús like Ocean Club, Buddha Beach, and La Sala by the Sea, or opt for the more tranquil sands to the west of Estepona. If you're looking to mix beach time with some boutique shopping and fine dining, Laguna is only 20 minutes away. You can unwind at Purobeach Marbella beach club, whether by the pool or on the beach, and indulge in a delicious meal at Camuri restaurant.
What is there to do in Benahavís?
Owning a property in Benahavis offers a wonderful chance to explore the beautiful countryside. You can enjoy hiking in the mountains or by the river, as well as take advantage of the various golf courses in the area. Benahavis boasts an impressive selection of nine golf courses, including the renowned Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club designed by Seve Ballesteros, and the exclusive Marbella Club Golf Resort. Additionally, the village even has a Golf Academy with a practice ground and putting green for enthusiasts to enjoy.
What cultural activities are there in Benahavís?
BBenahavis, like all villages in Andalusia, has a rich cultural heritage with deeply-rooted traditions. The Holy Week processions are a sight to behold, and the annual Benahavis Fair is a five-day celebration filled with processions, fairground rides, fireworks, and delicious food and drinks. Another important event is the pilgrimage in honor of the village’s patron saint, the Virgin of the Rosary, on 7 October. In the summer, Benahavis comes alive with concerts and musical events as part of its annual cultural programme, and the village's many restaurants also host regular culinary events.
What about eating out in Benahavís?
Although the village is quaint, it boasts a variety of restaurants. This, combined with the exceptional quality of the food, has earned Benahavis the title of the Gastronomic Corner of the Costa del Sol. Additionally, the village is home to the Sabor a Málaga catering school, where students frequently receive accolades for their culinary talents. Within this charming village, you can find some of the most esteemed restaurants on the Costa del Sol, offering traditional Spanish dishes alongside modern interpretations and international cuisine. The menu often features key ingredients like pork, lamb, and game such as wild boar and venison, as well as fresh fish and seafood sourced from the nearby areas of Estepona and Marbella.
What’s a typical local dish?
One of the most typical dishes from Benahavis is marinated pork fillet (solomillo de cerdo aliñado) whose recipe forms part of many families’ traditions!
How about shopping in Benahavís?
Benahavis offers a nice selection of small shops for your everyday needs. If you're looking for something larger, there's a big Mercadona supermarket right at the entrance of the municipality, conveniently located near some of our new developments. Additionally, Marbella boasts fantastic shopping options, including large shopping centers, department stores, luxury boutiques, and a variety of high street shops.
And property?
Benahavis is home to many exclusive and quality homes and developments.
La Zagaleta is a luxurious private residential estate featuring upscale villas, a golf course, and an equestrian center. La Alqueria is an exclusive area with modern developments like Atalaya Hills. Los Arqueros is renowned for its championship Golf Course and the new Botanic development. Nearby estates like La Reserva de Alcuzcuz and Los Almendros provide a peaceful environment in natural surroundings. Closer to the coast, developments like Cataleya and Terrazas de Atalaya offer a contemporary lifestyle in a stunning setting.
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