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.

Villa Vesper - Luxury Off-plan Villa

Welcome to this stunning off-plan villa project nestled on the frontline of La Quinta Golf Course in Marbella. Imagine starting your day on the top-floor terrace, sipping your morning coffee while taking in the serene golf views. This three-level masterpiece, with 680 square metres of luxurious living space, is designed by the renowned Tobal Arquitectos and offers endless customisation possibilities. On the entrance level, you will find covered parking for three cars and a charming evening terrace that invites you to unwind with a glass of wine as the sun sets. The heart of the home is on the middle floor, where an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area flow effortlessly onto a spacious terrace. Picture yourself hosting friends and family here, with multiple lounging areas, an al fresco dining table, a BBQ grill, and a stunning 55-square-metre outdoor pool. This floor also includes a guest bedroom with an ensuite, a guest water closet, a dirty kitchen, and a laundry room: everything you need for comfortable, everyday living. Venture down to the lower level, where three en suite bedrooms, each with its own private terrace, await. The master suite is a true sanctuary, featuring his-and-hers walk-in wardrobes, a dedicated closet for shoes and bags, and a luxurious ensuite bathroom. For leisure and wellness, this level also boasts a games room, a TV lounge, and a private gym with a separate sauna and shower, perfect for both relaxation and fitness. From here, you can access the beautifully landscaped garden at the base of the property, offering a peaceful retreat. Just 10 minutes from the vibrant Puerto Banús and Marbella’s stunning beaches, the property combines the tranquility of golf course living with the convenience of a prime location. Whether you’re looking for a permanent residence or a luxurious holiday home, this villa is the perfect canvas to create your dream lifestyle.

7.995.000 €

  • 5 Beds
  • 4 Baths
  • Built. 680 m2
  • ref#145077

Plot for sale in Benahavis, Costa del Sol

Meeting North European standars, we take pride in using high-quality materials from renowned brands, ensuring exceptional finishing throughout the house. with 5 spacious bedrooms and 5 bathrooms spreas over 2 floors, an ample space for comfortable livinng awaits you. Our expert design and architectural team will work diligently to customize the house to perfection, tailoring every detail to your exact desires and ensuring it’s your ideal home in every way. Embrace the ease of creating your dream home in prime location, where sophistication and functionality harmoniously blend together. Prime Location in Benahavis, Marbella Situated in the exclusive Benahavis area, this villa is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, yet only a short drive from Marbella's vibrant city center, beaches, and world-class amenities. Known for its tranquility, luxury, and proximity to golf courses, fine dining, and top schools, Benahavis is one of the most sought-after locations on the Costa del Sol.

Price from 4.395.000 €

  • 5 Beds
  • 5 Baths
  • Built. 457 m2
  • ref#780-00032P

Contemporary three bedroom, southwest facing apartment in La Reserva de Alcuzcuz, Benahavis.

Contemporary three bedroom, southwest facing apartment in La Reserva de Alcuzcuz, Benahavis. This gated community has 24hr security, well kept gardens, communal swimming pool and is just a short drive to Marbella, San Pedro and amenities. The property features an entrance hall; bright and spacious living-dining room with access to the terrace; open plan fully fitted kitchen with a laundry room and equipped with top quality appliances; en-suite master bedroom with access to the terrace; two further guest bedrooms sharing a bathroom. This apartment is ideal as a holiday home, located in a tranquil area, with panoramic views over the countryside and within a short drive to the beach. Other features include hot and cold air conditioning, underfloor heating in the bathrooms, storeroom and private parking.

760.000 €

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
  • Built. 178 m2
  • ref#5081MLGF