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.

Apartment for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

Experience one of the most spectacular panoramic views in all of Marbella from this newly renovated, fully furnished corner apartment — a refined blend of elegance and comfort. Discover 119m² of beautifully designed living space, where a contemporary open-plan layout connects the sleek, fully equipped kitchen with the bright and airy living and dining areas. The interior features seamless Mortex microcement flooring throughout, high-quality finishes, and top appliances — all making this home truly move-in ready. This stunning apartment boasts two spacious, partially covered terraces totaling 58m², perfectly oriented to the South and East for optimal sunlight throughout the day.. From here, enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the iconic La Concha Mountain, Marbella, golf courses, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea — all the way to the African coastline. Whether you're taking in sunrise over the mountains or sunset over the sea, the scenery is simply unforgettable. One of the terraces offers a Plancha corner, perfect for al fresco meals with family and friends. Even from inside the apartment, the spectacular views are ever-present thanks to the well-placed windows and layout. The serene master suite features direct terrace access, a walk-in closet, and a modern en-suite bathroom. Two additional bedrooms offer fitted wardrobes and share a stylish bathroom. Designed for year-round living, the apartment includes underfloor heating throughout and a brand-new reversible air conditioning system. Both, along with the smart water heater, can be remotely controlled. Set within a gated, 24/7 secured community with concierge service, residents enjoy access to lush tropical gardens, four swimming pools — including a heated infinity pool — and a brand-new gym currently under construction. The property also includes 2 underground parking spaces (with ducting for EV-charger) and 2 storage rooms. Located in the exclusive municipality of Benahavís — ideally positioned between Marbella and Estepona — this home is just 5 minutes from shops, 10 minutes from the beach, and only 49 minutes from Málaga airport. Whether you're seeking a stylish permanent residence, a sun-drenched holiday retreat, or a high-value investment, this rare gem offers it all.

849.000 €

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • Built. 119 m2
  • ref#R5026972

Plot for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

Discover a unique investment opportunity with this prime land available for sale in the sought-after Montemayor development of Montemar. Spanning a total of 1,600 m², this property is currently divided into three generous plots, each measuring 800 m². Ideal for land banking, this parcel offers incredible potential for future residential development, especially for single-family homes (chalets). Nestled within an urban core, this land is urbanizable and allows for the construction of three stories, providing ample space for creativity and growth. One of the standout features of these plots is their breathtaking panoramic views, making it a perfect location for those looking to build their dream home or invest in a lucrative project. With a competitive price and a prime location, this land is a rare find in today's market. Don't miss the chance to secure this exceptional property that promises both immediate and long-term returns. Whether you're an investor or a future homeowner, this is the perfect canvas to bring your vision to life!

1.350.000 €

    • ref#R5026111

    Town House for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

    Elegant Semi-Detached House with Sea Views in El Paraíso: Designed for those who love to enjoy life outdoors, this beautiful semi-detached house offers breathtaking sea and nature views from every level. Spread across two floors plus a rooftop solarium, the home features bright and functional spaces ideal for family living and entertaining. The south-facing living room on the ground floor opens onto a large private garden, which leads directly to the extensive communal gardens with a tropical pool area. The open-plan kitchen, fitted with top-range appliances, connects seamlessly to the dining and living areas, creating a spacious and luminous environment. This level also includes a guest bedroom with a bathroom. Upstairs, the sleeping area offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms, including a master bedroom with ensuite and a private terrace. The rooftop solarium is perfect for relaxing or hosting, offering panoramic views of the sea, tropical gardens, and surrounding landscape. Specifications: - Underfloor heating with thermostat in bathrooms - Fujitsu heat pump air-conditioning and heating system on both floors - Independent air distribution system by room for optimal comfort - Minimalist kitchen with top-brand appliances - Dual-level lighting to create cozy atmospheres - Fireplace providing a warm and elegant ambiance - Two private parking spaces (one covered with pergola and heather) Located just minutes from beautiful beaches, prestigious golf courses like El Paraíso Golf, and cosmopolitan towns such as Guadalmina, Puerto Banús, and Estepona, this property offers the perfect balance between nature, luxury, and connectivity. Distances: - Beach: 8 minutes (900 m) - Puerto Banús: 15 minutes (10 km) - El Paraíso Golf: 3 minutes (400 m) - Estepona: 20 minutes (15 km) Live surrounded by beauty, sport, and the best quality of life the Costa del Sol has to offer.

    825.000 €

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • Built. 270 m2
    • ref#R5022115