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Benahavís is a beautiful white mountain village and one of the most exclusive hidden gems on the Costa del Sol. Nestled between Marbella, Estepona and the Serranía de Ronda, just 7 kilometres from the bustling coastline, it perfectly combines the authentic charm of an ancient Arab mountain village with some of the most expensive luxury developments in Spain, giving it one of the highest per capita incomes in the country.
Just a few kilometres from the Costa del Sol’s most exclusive resorts lies Benahavís, tucked into the slopes of Monte Matrona in the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda. Here, luxury is discreet: impressive mansions and large fortunes blend harmoniously into a pristine natural landscape of vast woodlands crossed by the three rivers Guadalmina, Guadaiza and Guadalmansa.
It is no surprise that Benahavís has earned the nickname “the Dining Room of the Costa del Sol”, thanks to its outstanding and varied selection of restaurants.
Benahavís Tourist Attractions
Benahavís was founded during the Muslim period. It later formed part of Marbella until the 16th century, when it gained independence and became an autonomous municipality.
Montemayor Castle
The Castle of Montemayor played a vital role in the history of Benahavís. Used for centuries as a defensive stronghold and lookout point, it witnessed conflicts between Moors and Christians, the Moorish rebellion and the Peninsular War.
Today only ruins remain, but the walk is well worth the effort. From this strategic hilltop you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Spanish and African coasts, including the Rock of Gibraltar on clear days. Parts of the three walled enclosures are still visible, along with several cisterns that retain some of their original lining. Small ruby mines once existed in the surrounding area.
Benahavís Fair
The Benahavís Fair takes place in the middle of July. If you are in the area during this time, it is well worth a visit. The fair lasts five days and begins with the lighting of the fairground and a colourful parade.
It is a lively event for all ages, with music, fairground rides, food stalls and a wonderful festive atmosphere.
Pilgrimage of the Virgen del Rosario
The Romería in honour of the Virgen del Rosario, patron saint of Benahavís, takes place on the 7th of October. The day starts at 9am with free churros on Avenida de Andalucía, followed by a procession to the chapel. From 2pm onwards, live music and other activities continue in the area around the chapel.
Natural Surroundings
Nature lovers will adore Benahavís. Particularly recommended are the natural pools along the Guadalmina River:
– Rock Pool (Piscina de Roca)
– Charco de las Mozas
Park in the village or at the lower car park and walk approximately 2 kilometres. The river hiking route is beautiful, but in some sections you will need to swim or wade through water, so appropriate footwear for rocks is essential and caution is advised.
- Location of Rock Pool: Google Maps
- Charco de las Mozas: Google Maps
Another excellent spot is Torre Leonera Park, located just before reaching the Guadalmina River. The park is named after the 12th–13th century defensive tower that overlooks it.
Many visitors use it as a resting place before or after a river walk. It is also ideal for families with children, as wild rabbits roam freely in the area. Open-air concerts are sometimes held here.
Location: Google Maps
Golf Courses in Benahavís
Given that the municipality is home to significant national and international wealth, it offers some of the finest golf facilities in Europe. Notable courses include Gran Flamingo, La Zagaleta (Club and Los Barrancos), Los Arqueros, Los Flamingos Golf, Monte Mayor Golf Club and El Higueral (9 holes).
Nestled within the rolling fairways of Los Flamingos Golf lies one of Spain’s most elegant hotels: the Hotel Villa Padierna. This neoclassical resort was the chosen accommodation of Michelle Obama during her visit to Marbella in 2010.
Other Places of Interest in Benahavís
- Church of the Virgen del Rosario: An 18th-century religious building that has undergone numerous renovations. (Map)
- Benahavís Town Hall: Housed in a beautiful 16th-century palace with Nasrid architectural features. Location: Avenida de Andalucía, 34. (Map)
- Cardenillo Mines: Ancient copper deposit exploited by the Romans between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. (Map)
- Lapiz Mines: Operated between 1749 and 1854, producing up to 150,000 tons of graphite. They contributed to the fortune of Manuel Agustín Heredia and are currently under study for possible reactivation.
Discover more about Benahavís heritage here: https://www.malaga.es/en/turismo/patrimonio/cnl-252/
Book now your transfer from Malaga Airport to Benahavís and start enjoying a unique destination that blends history, nature, gastronomy and discreet luxury.
