Benahavís

Costa del Sol

Living in Benahavís: lifestyle, benefits, and what to do

Benahavís is a natural paradise of beautiful green valleys, boasting stunning architecture that rises impressively above the Costa del Sol. This location is one of the most coveted in the world, and it’s no wonder—living there is a true marvel. Situated in the Serranía de Ronda, very close to some of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol, Benahavís has a large, excellently managed, and well-preserved municipal area. It is notable for having some of the most exclusive urbanizations and mansions in the world, as well as the most luxurious clubs and golf courses. 

Privacy, a paradisiacal natural environment, top-tier restaurants, and golf courses—Benahavís has it all and stands out for offering its residents a lavish lifestyle that only a few fortunate individuals can access.

Where is Benahavís?

Benahavís is located in a valley between hills, very close to Marbella. It is easily accessible from San Pedro de Alcántara, Puerto Banús, Marbella, and Estepona. Three rivers from the Serranía de Ronda flow through the municipality and into the Mediterranean: the Guadalmina, the Guadalmansa, and the Gaudaiza rivers. 

Benahavís offers some of the most spectacular views on the Costa del Sol and runs through a narrow gorge formed by the Guadalmina River, which opens up as it reaches the village, surrounded by rocky granite and marble terrains. Most of the municipality, covered with olive trees and Mediterranean vegetation, is home to abundant wildlife, such as mountain goats, deer, reptiles, fish, and insects.

Things to Do in Benahavís

This area of the Costa del Sol offers an innumerable list of activities for people of all ages, both children and adults:

  • Stroll through its cobbled streets with whitewashed walls and colorful flower pots.
  • Enjoy the art galleries and local craft shops that abound in the municipality, a favorite place for artists.
  • Take one of its many hiking trails that cross the surrounding nature. Most can be done on foot and by mountain bike.
  • Play golf. There are 12 top-level golf courses in the locality, famous worldwide. Some of the most prestigious are La Quinta, Los Arqueros, or Marbella Club Golf Resort.
  • Practice sports. Benahavís has first-class sports facilities, with a football field, paddle tennis courts, and more.
  • Go bowling in Los Arqueros.
  • Indulge in an exclusive culinary experience at one of its restaurants (the lamb shoulder cooked in Benahavís is a particularly popular delicacy!).

Advantages of Living in Benahavís

Residing in Benahavís, whether permanently or temporarily, is synonymous with an enviable lifestyle, a tranquil and exclusive life in a natural environment like few others in Spain. This Costa del Sol locality is a must-be. Here are some of the advantages of living in Benahavís:

A privileged location

Located to the south of the Serranía de Ronda, only 7 km from the beach, Benahavís allows you to enjoy nature and the nearby coast.

Excellent services

Hotels, sports facilities, spas, and shops. Well connected to Marbella, Estepona, and Málaga, with the airport just 40 minutes away.

Golf

Home to 12 renowned golf courses, such as La Quinta Golf & Country Club and Marbella Club Golf Resort, it is ideal for golf lovers.

Lower taxes

The property tax (IBI) is significantly lower compared to other municipalities, reducing the cost of home ownership.

Schools

A wide educational offering with institutions like CEIP Daidín and Colegio Atalaya, offering bilingual education from preschool to high school.

Security and privacy

Video cameras on major roads and numerous gated communities ensure 24/7 surveillance.

Nature

With three rivers (Guadalmina, Guadalmansa, and Gaudaiza) and a green and fertile landscape, Benahavís offers spectacular views of the Costa del Sol.

Exclusivity

It is one of the most expensive municipalities in Spain, with luxury being the air that is breathed in the locality.

Historical heritage

Including Montemayor Castle and several ancient towers, ideal for family excursions.

Gastronomy

This area of Marbella is renowned for its high-quality restaurants, offering a variety of international cuisines in a picturesque and charming setting. Benahavís is known as the “dining room of the Costa del Sol.

Notable Areas in Benahavís

Los Flamingos

Los Flamingos Golf Resort is a paradise for golf lovers, a luxurious and elegant country club located on the Costa del Sol. This exclusive urbanization is surrounded by lush vegetation and three 18-hole golf courses. It also features the five-star facilities of the luxurious Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Hotel.
Among its attractions are exquisite dining options, an award-winning spa, and a specialized golf academy. The beaches and the charming town of San Pedro de Alcántara, offering shops, restaurants, and various leisure and sports activities, are just five minutes away. Properties in Los Flamingos, situated on hillsides and facing south and southeast, guarantee privacy and spectacular views of the sea, mountains, and even the horizon of Gibraltar and North Africa, making this place an exceptional destination for those seeking exclusivity and beauty in a golf environment.

El Madroñal

El Madroñal offers a peaceful countryside life, yet just 20 minutes from Marbella and close to La Zagaleta and La Heredia. This exclusive urbanization of luxury villas ensures maximum privacy with its six controlled access points and 24-hour surveillance. Originally owned by wealthy families and nobles, El Madroñal covers 223 hectares of pine and cork oak forests, providing a natural and exclusive retreat 400 meters above sea level with impressive views of the coast.

Plot for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

Nestled in the serene mountains of Benahavís, this exceptional rustic finca offers a unique opportunity for those looking to bring their dream building project to life. Boasting spectacular panoramic views of both the sea and the surrounding mountains, this expansive plot provides the perfect setting for a private retreat in nature. With planning permission in place, this property is ideal for those seeking to create a bespoke home in a peaceful and tranquil environment, away from the hustle and bustle yet within easy reach of key amenities. Just a 15-minute drive from renowned golf courses and only 30 minutes from Guadalmina, this location offers the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility. Whether you're envisioning a luxury countryside estate or a sustainable rural retreat, this prime piece of land presents an outstanding investment opportunity in one of the most sought-after areas of the Costa del Sol.

3.900.000 €

    • ref#R4974601

    Villa for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

    This elegant 4-bedroom villa in Paraiso Alto, Benahavis, offers a beautifully designed modern retreat inspired by Mediterranean architecture. This property combines indoor-outdoor living with ample space for relaxation and entertainment. Recently renovated to the highest standards, the villa presents an airy, open-plan layout that brings together spacious living areas with floor-to-ceiling windows, seamlessly merging interior elegance with the surrounding natural beauty. Positioned within a 10-minute drive from Puerto Banús and its pristine beaches, Paraiso Alto is a sought-after residential enclave known for its lush, green landscape and scenic views, offering a balance of exclusivity and accessibility. This villa embraces its setting with serene sea views and a feeling of privacy heightened by the area's distinctive Ibizan-inspired architectural style. In Paraiso Alto, properties range from contemporary villas to classic Mediterranean homes, creating a cohesive yet diverse neighbourhood that appeals to those who appreciate a high-end, tranquil environment with proximity to essential amenities and leisure options. Upon entering, you'll find a spacious open-plan living room complete with a cosy fireplace and a dedicated dining area. The fully fitted kitchen is meticulously designed for functionality and style, providing ample workspace and top-of-the-line appliances that make meal preparation a pleasure. Four generous bedrooms include two en-suite bathrooms, ensuring privacy and comfort for all residents and guests. A convenient guest toilet adds to the villa's practicality. This property's outdoor spaces are as inviting as its interiors. The covered terrace leads to a landscaped garden and features an infinity pool that enhances the panoramic sea views. Integrated sunbeds provide an ideal spot for soaking up the Mediterranean sun, while a sundeck, pergola, BBQ area, and chill-out spaces create a perfect atmosphere for social gatherings or peaceful relaxation. As the day winds down, the sunset terrace offers an ideal setting for movie nights under the stars with its unique moonlight cinema. Additional features of the villa include underfloor heating in the bathrooms and a state-of-the-art security system, adding to the comfort and peace of mind of living in this upscale neighbourhood. Paraiso Alto offers a refined lifestyle with easy access to nearby golf courses, including El Paraiso Golf Club, where golf enthusiasts can enjoy the sport amid scenic views. Fine dining options are abundant, with establishments like Restaurante La Alcaria de Ramos and El Paraiso Country Club just a short distance away, providing a range of cuisines and atmospheres to suit every occasion. For daily conveniences, shopping venues such as Centro Comercial Benavista are only a short drive away, offering supermarkets, pharmacies, and other essentials. Families will find reputable schools in the vicinity, including Aloha College and the International School of Estepona, making this area an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality education close to home. The villa's connectivity is enhanced by its access to public transport options and major roadways, making commuting and travel to nearby Marbella or Estepona convenient. Paraiso Alto combines the best of luxury living with the ease of access to some of the Costa del Sol's most vibrant areas. This stunning villa, with its well-thought-out spaces and serene surroundings, presents an ideal opportunity for those looking to enjoy the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle in a private and luxurious setting.

    2.325.000 €

    • 4 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • Built. 235 m2
    • ref#R4969192

    Villa for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

    Nestled in an exclusive urbanization with 24-hour security, this magnificent villa offers a life of luxury and comfort in a privileged setting. Distributed over four floors, every corner of this property has been designed to maximize comfort and sea views. On the main floor, you'll find a modern open kitchen seamlessly integrated with the living-dining area, creating an ideal space for family gatherings and entertaining friends. This floor also includes a convenient guest restroom. The first floor features 3 en-suite bedrooms, each thoughtfully designed to ensure privacy and comfort. On the lower floor, there is a beauty room with an en-suite bathroom, perfect for relaxing and pampering yourself in the comfort of your home, a music room, laundry room, and wine cellar, as well as a garage with space for 2 vehicles, offering both functionality and style. The rooftop is a true oasis, complete with an outdoor kitchen and pergola, perfect for savoring the stunning sea views and creating unforgettable outdoor moments. The villa is equipped with an elevator, heated pool, and central air conditioning for both hot and cold, as well as underfloor heating on the main living floor and upstairs bathrooms, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable living experience year-round. Don't miss the opportunity to live in this exceptional villa in Benahavís Pueblo, where lifestyle meets nature and tranquility! Detached Villa, Benahavís, Costa del Sol. 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Bathrooms, Built 492 m², Terrace 136 m², Garden/Plot 538 m². Setting : Village, Mountain Pueblo, Close To Shops, Close To Schools, Urbanisation. Orientation : South East. Condition : Excellent, Recently Renovated, Recently Refurbished. Pool : Private, Heated. Climate Control : Air Conditioning, Fireplace, U/F Heating, U/F/H Bathrooms. Views : Sea, Mountain, Country, Panoramic, Pool. Features : Covered Terrace, Lift, Fitted Wardrobes, Private Terrace, Solarium, Utility Room, Ensuite Bathroom, Marble Flooring, Double Glazing. Furniture : Not Furnished. Kitchen : Fully Fitted. Garden : Private. Security : Gated Complex, 24 Hour Security. Parking : Garage, Private. Utilities : Electricity, Drinkable Water. Category : Luxury, Resale.

    1.600.000 €

    • 4 Beds
    • 5 Baths
    • Built. 492 m2
    • ref#R4965508