Benahavis, Marbella lifestyle in a rural retreat.
The municipality of Benahavis is situated in the foothills of a mountain range and is characterized by three rivers: Guadaiza, Guadalmina, and Guadalmansa, each of which has created its valley. This region is one of the most mountainous areas of the Western Costa del Sol, located 500 meters above sea level and 7 kilometers inland. The municipality covers an area of 14,575 hectares, with 70 percent of the land designated as an “Environmentally Significant Mountain Complex.” This designation protects the area from any excessive development.
Renowned for its luxury and exclusivity, Benahavís is a prestigious mountain region adjacent to Marbella and home to some of the finest villas on the Costa del Sol. This picturesque white village boasts an array of excellent restaurants, lush green valleys, and world-class international golf courses. Just a short drive from the coastline and glamorous destinations like Puerto Banús and Puente Romano, Benahavís offers a captivating blend of serenity and access to upscale amenities. Within this remarkable locale, The Hills is a unique residential development where exquisite properties showcase awe-inspiring panoramic views that will leave a lasting impression.
Where is Benahavis?
Benahavis is situated inland between Marbella and Estepona. Most parts of the municipality are easily accessible to the AP7 toll road, and Malaga and Gibraltar airports can be reached within 45 minutes from any location in Benahavis. Marbella is also conveniently located between 10 and 15 minutes away from most places within the municipality.
The History of Benahavis.
The origins of Benahavis can be traced back to the end of the 11th century when the Arabs founded it. Its history is intertwined with the Arabic past of the Costa del Sol, particularly with Marbella, as it was part of the district until Philip II granted it the “Carta Puebla” in 1572.
Due to its strategic position, Montemayor Castle played a crucial role in the battles between the Arab kings in Andalusia. Various armies fiercely contested it throughout the ages. Its commanding position afforded views of up to a hundred kilometers of coastline, spanning from the Mediterranean Sea to the African coast, with only one entry and exit point, making it particularly valuable when piracy and invasion were rampant.
In addition to Montemayor Castle, five guard towers are located within the Benahavis area. These towers are Torre Tramores, Torre Esteril, Torre Daidin, Torre Campanillas, and Torre Leonera.
The town derives its name from Havis, a resident of Montemayor Castle. Benahavis is derived from the Arabic phrase “Ben al Havis,” which means “son of Havis.”
Over the past few years the affluent inland enclave of Benahavís has come to rival Marbella itself in terms of being a desirable residential destination featuring quality property in an enviable sun-soaked location, just a few short hours flying from chillier Northern climes.
Its unique mix of the Marbella lifestyle combined with a relaxed mountainside location close to a pretty white village in the midst of nature—only 0.8% of the municipality’s 145 Km2 of terrain has been developed—has proven to be irresistible to international buyers searching for the best the Costa del Sol has to offer.
The attractions of Benahavís are centred on the charming village, which has a rural setting yet is only a few minutes drive from the bustling coastal resorts of Marbella, Estepona and the glamorous party spot of Puerto Banús. This is not to say that Benahavís is something of a backwater—indeed it is known colloquially as ‘the gourmet village’ due to the large number of restaurants and the gastronomy to be found there, making it a ‘must visit’ for lovers of fine dining. A nearby modern commercial centre offers shopping opportunities, while several luxury hotels provide a variety of spa and leisure facilities that are the equal of any to be found on the Costa del Sol.
Benahavis Town.
Nestled within the majestic mountains, the captivating village of Benahavis beckons food connoisseurs from around the globe. Enveloped by breathtaking vistas of nature, this gastronomic haven boasts the highest concentration of top-notch dining destinations in the Malaga province, no wonder many are scrambling to find properties for sale in this foodie paradise. With villas in Benahavis garnering a lot of attention from foreign buyers, it’s no surprise that ex-pats are gravitating towards this culinary utopia, hoping to make it their permanent abode.
Property for sale in Benahavis – the object of interest for many
This picturesque white-washed village with a traditional Andalusian style boasts a delightful blend of almost everything, from a vibrant community of expatriates, and breathtaking views of the Sierras to the tranquil melody of nearby rivers and cascades. It’s no surprise that an increasing number of individuals are drawn to this enchanting village
Tucked away just a 15-minute drive from the glittering Mediterranean shoreline, and perched at a lofty height of 500 meters above sea level, this captivating haven is located a mere 7 kilometers inland offering a serene respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The journey to this enchanted village is a delightful one, winding through roads that embrace you with panoramic vistas and verdant greenery. The whispering of the nearby river gouge harmonizes with the sweet melodies of a symphony of birds, as though inviting you to surrender to the tranquility of this wonderland. As you draw closer to the village, a sense of anticipation fills you, for you know that a world of unforgettable experiences awaits you on this enchanting journey.
The Montemayor Castle ruins, an 11th-century marvel, offer a poignant glimpse into the Moorish influence that once dominated the region. The castle’s commanding position atop the highest hill is not only breathtaking but also symbolic of its name, “Montemayor.” For those willing to take on the challenge, a steep climb rewards you with a jaw-dropping panorama of the entire Costa del Sol coastline. Visitors can bask in the castle’s architectural grandeur, marvel at its intricate details, and explore the surrounding ruins, which whisper tales of a bygone era filled with history and culture.
What are the offerings of Benahavis?
Although Benahavis is a small village, it covers over 150 square kilometers as a municipality. Most of this land is protected from development due to its designation as an Environmentally Significant Mountain Complex. The population of Benahavis is around 8,000 people, with approximately 60% being foreigners who have chosen this stunning part of Spain as their home. As a result, the population is diverse, and at the heart of the municipality lies a traditional village with an Andalusian atmosphere.
Away from the multitude of great restaurants, Benahavis is surrounded by nature. You can walk in the mountains, swim in the rivers, cannyoning over waterfalls and through plunge pools, or visit the various towers scattered throughout the area used throughout history as watchtowers, so the views are often panoramic.
Like all villages, it has deep-rooted traditions; the holy week procession is small but one of the best; the fair takes place over five days in August, where the whole village enjoys parades and fireworks. Saints Day is on October 7th, when the patron saint, the Virgin of the Rosary, is celebrated.
As with all traditional villages, Benahavis has deep-rooted customs and celebrations. The Holy Week procession is a small but well-regarded event, while the five-day fair in August is a highlight for the entire village, with marches and fireworks. On October 7th, the town celebrates Saints Day, honoring the patron saint, the Virgin of the Rosary.
The village boasts many restaurants that serve exquisite cuisine, and as a result, it has earned the reputation of being the culinary hub of the Costa del Sol. Additionally, the Sabor, a catering school in the village, has won numerous awards for its exceptional culinary skills.
Benahavis is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, with the region’s highest concentration of high-class restaurants. This draws visitors who come specifically to indulge in the local cuisine and the numerous resident expatriates. The municipality contains a variety of exclusive developments that Private Property has access to, including La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, La Quinta, and Marbella Club Golf, among others. If you’re interested, you can search for properties for sale in Benahavis on our website.
Restaurants in Benahavis
Indulging in scrumptious meals is a must-do activity for those on the lookout for properties in Benahavis. Make sure to keep a record of the best dining spots in Benahavis, so that you can savor their delights on your next visit to peruse the properties for sale. Nothing beats ending a day of property hunting with a delicious feast!
Plaza de España, 5, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 642 055
Calle del Almendro, 4, 29670 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 85 52 35
Av. de Andalucia, 7, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 856 263
Multani´s
Plaza de la Iglesia, 2, 29679 San Pedro Alcántara, Málaga
+34 951 620 756
Calle Montemayor, 4, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 855 262
Calle Marbella, 6, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 951 665 124
Calle Estepona, 8, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 951 778 153
Plaza Del Castillo, 1, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 605 513
Calle Malaga, 15, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 855 022
Calle Castillo, 2, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
+34 952 856 229
Golf in Benahavis
Not only due to the town’s world-renowned culinary delicacies but properties for sale in Benahavis are also highly coveted due to the plethora of golf courses in the vicinity. Explore these splendid golf courses near Benahavis when seeking your ideal property for sale in the area.
Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club La Quinta Golf and Country Club
Marbella Club Golf Resort Alferini Golf
Club de Golf La Zagaleta Tramores Golf
El Higueral Golf Marbella Golf Club
Atalaya Golf and Country Club Los Flamingos Golf
International Schools Near Benahavis
Mayfair International Academy Calpe School
Laude San Pedro International College The British International School Marbella
Fundacion Aloha College Casa del Mar International Montessori School The International School Estepona Escuela Infantil Benahavis
Colegio Daidin St. George’s School
Healthcare in Benahavis
Cenyt Estepona Boris International Medical Clinic
Hospiten Clinica Hilu
Quironsalud Marbella CH Marbella
Most desirable Benahavís real estate.
When it comes to properties, the most desirable are to be found in the country club estates that nestle in the wooded hills just off the Ronda Road. Mostly built round the picturesque charms of verdant golf courses, they offer privacy and 24 hour security as well as exceptional leisure amenities to those fortunate enough to have invested in a property within their environs. The most exclusive of these is La Zagaleta, with its two golf courses, private equestrian centre, magnificent clubhouse and extensive green zones. The villas for sale within the country club are some of the most coveted on the Costa del Sol and certainly rank amongst its finest.
One of the popular residential areas of Benahavís is that of La Quinta. The apartments and villas here are of a very high standard and benefit from sea or mountain views from their elevated position. They have proven to be enduringly popular, both as holiday residences on a golf course and near the sea, and as permanent homes for those looking to enjoy life on the Costa del Sol, as have those at Monte Mayor. The newer estates of Los Flamingos and the Marbella Club Golf Resort are also proving to be very sought after by those searching for an exclusive lifestyle.
Are you prepared to discover the perfect property for sale in Benahavis that fulfills all your dreams?
LuxuryForSale.Properties Real Estate.
LuxuryForSale.Properties Realty has a selection of quality apartments and villas in all parts of Benahavís. Please contact us for more advice and information on this idyllic area.