Benahavis Guide

The village of Benahavis is a typical Spanish mountain white washed town, tucked away only a few kilometres inland. Benahavis is situated between the popular and very glitzy seaside city of Marbella, and not too far off is Estepona and Ronda. Benahavis village is perfectly located, and it’s only 7 km from the Mediterranean Sea. The village is incredibly unique and a step away from the ordinary or mundane. It’s also referred to as “The Dining Room to The Costa del Sol”, for its many very good restaurants.

What’s more surprising is how many are unaware of the village, and this includes even the locals! It’s almost like a hidden gem so to speak, and offers not only pristine property for sale, such as in La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, Los Flamingos and Marbella Club Golf Resort, to name a few of the very high standard locations, but also many leisure activities. Tourism in the village appeals to the young and elderly alike, and to those who love the outdoors. Many very good artists have also chosen to live in the beautiful village and offer their art in galleries, which makes Benahavis well worth a visit.

The village of Benahavis combines the traditional features you might find in Malaga’s famous white villages, but the difference being the modernised infrastructure. The village holds 9 of the 60 golf courses on the Costa del Sol. You will enjoy the winding streets, restaurants and quaint shops, all centrally located. The village is also incredibly appealing for visitors and expats alike.

The most interesting tourist sights are the Montemayor Castle and the Church of Virgen del Rosario. This picturesque pueblo makes for a fabulous evening out with family or for a bit of romance. Travellers and tourists also come for the greenery, the Gorge of Guadalmina River and the river run. This is a huge hot spot amongst the young, and the very sporty. If you love jumping off rocks or cliffs into some cool water below or hiking up river and around mountainous terrain, Benahavis is the perfect location.

When it comes to proximity to other popular locations throughout the Costa del Sol, Benahavis is close enough to venture off in search of more culture, and more fun. Benahavis is a typical mountain village, yet it’s only 7 kilometres from the coast. This means the drive is short, and you get to explore at the very least, 100 kilometres of Costa del Sol beaches – most being blue flag. Another thing worth mentioning is the views, and they’re awesome. On a very clear day, you can see the mountain ranges of the African coast in the distance.

The history of this quintessential Andalusian village, may today seem quaint, but you might be surprised by its very vibrant history. It was founded by the Arab invaders in the 9th century, and because of its unique location, it became of strategic importance during the wars between Christian and Arab armies. Montemayor Castle and Cortes Fortress have plenty of stories to tell between them, especially because Benahavis was at often times, a violent point during the wars.