Benahavis, The Dinning Room of the Costa del Sol

Benahavís is a picturesque village located in the province of Málaga, on Spain’s Costa del Sol. Nestled between Marbella, Estepona, and Ronda, it offers a serene and luxurious retreat just a short drive from the bustling coastal areas. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Sierra de las Nieves and the Guadalmina River, Benahavís is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and scenic mountain ranges. The village itself is a blend of traditional Andalusian charm and modern amenities, featuring whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and an array of gourmet restaurants that have earned it the nickname “the dining room of the Costa del Sol.” Benahavís is also renowned for its exclusive residential areas, such as La Zagaleta and El Madroñal, which offer high-end properties and world-class golf courses, making it a coveted location for both luxury living and investment. Its close proximity to major attractions, coupled with a tranquil setting and a reputation for fine dining, makes Benahavís a unique and desirable location on the Costa del Sol..

Benahavis FAQ´s

Where is Benahavís located

Benahavís is situated in the region of Andalusia, in the province of Málaga, southern Spain. It is inland from the Costa del Sol, nestled in the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda mountains.

What is Benahavís known for?

Benahavís is famous for its natural beauty, charming white-washed village architecture, and its gastronomic scene. It has a reputation for having the highest number of gourmet restaurants per capita in the region.

What are the popular things to do?

Dining: Explore its wide array of restaurants offering local and international cuisines.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the surrounding mountains.

Golf: Several golf courses nearby attract enthusiasts.

Cultural Visits: Visit the historic town center and the Castillo de Montemayor.

Is it a good place to live?

Many people find Benahavís attractive for its peaceful lifestyle, beautiful surroundings, and proximity to both the coast and the city of Marbella. It’s particularly popular among expatriates and retirees looking for a relaxed environment.

How do you get to Benahavís?

By car: From Málaga or Marbella, take the A-7 highway and then the A-7175 road inland towards Benahavís.

Public transportation: Buses run from Marbella and Estepona to Benahavís, but having a car is more convenient for exploring the area.

When is the best time to visit Benahavís?

The best times to visit Benahavís are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months.

What are some nearby attractions to Benahavís?

Marbella: Known for its beaches, nightlife, and old town.

Puerto Banús: Famous for its luxury marina, shops, and restaurants.

Ronda: A historic town with dramatic cliffs and a famous bridge spanning a deep gorge.

Costa del Sol beaches: Numerous beaches along the coast for sunbathing and water sports.

Golf Courses

Golf courses in and around Benahavís cater to golfers of all skill levels and provide a variety of landscapes and challenges, from coastal views to mountainous terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, the Golf Valley area near Benahavís offers plenty of options to enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful surroundings.

Golf Courses

Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club

• Description: Designed by Severiano Ballesteros, this course offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.
• Course Features: t is known for its challenging layout with narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers.

La Quinta Golf & Country Club

• Description: Situated in the heart of the Golf Valley, just a short drive from Benahavís.
• Course Features: Offers three 9-hole courses designed by Manuel Piñero and Antonio Garrido, providing a variety of playing combinations.

Marbella Club Golf Resort

• Description: Located in Benahavís, this course is set within a picturesque valley.
• Course Features: Known for its peaceful surroundings and challenging layout designed by Dave Thomas.

El Higueral Golf:

• Description: A scenic 9-hole course nestled in the foothills of the mountains near Benahavís.
• Course Features: Offers a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf with panoramic views of the coast.

Atalaya Golf & Country Club:

• Description: Located between Marbella and Estepona, but close enough to Benahavís to be easily accessible.
• Course Features: Features two 18-hole courses: the Old Course and the New Course, both designed by Bernard von Limburger.

Los Flamingos Golf Resort

• Description: Situated near the luxurious Villa Padierna Palace Hotel, offering views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Course Features: The course was designed by Antonio García Garrido and boasts challenging holes amidst beautiful surroundings.

Monte Mayor Golf Club:

• Description: Known for its scenic and challenging layout in a natural mountainous setting.
• Course Features: Offers a unique golfing experience with panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.

What other sports can you do in Benahavis?

Being inland does not mean that there is not things to do. Benahavis has it in abundance and is a great place to explore the coutryside and mountains. Cycling and mountain biking have proven exceptionally popular over the last few years as the terrain offers tough hilly climbs.

Other Sports

Hiking and Mountain Biking:

• Benahavís is nestled in the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda mountains, making it an excellent starting point for hiking and mountain biking adventures. There are numerous trails and paths that offer stunning views of the countryside and coast.

Tennis and Padel:

• Many resorts and clubs in Benahavís and nearby Marbella offer tennis and padel courts. Padel, in particular, is very popular in Spain and you’ll find facilities catering to both casual players and enthusiasts.

Water Sports:

• While Benahavís itself is inland, it’s a short drive to the coastal towns of Marbella and Estepona where you can enjoy a wide range of water sports such as swimming, sailing, jet skiing, and paddle boarding.

Rock Climbing:

• The rugged terrain around Benahavís offers opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering. There are several spots with varying levels of difficulty suitable for climbers of different skill levels.

Equestrian Activities

• Horseback riding is a popular activity in the region. You can find stables and equestrian centres offering guided tours through the countryside and along scenic trails.

Gyms and Fitness Centres

• For those interested in indoor fitness activities, there are gyms and fitness centres in Benahavís and nearby towns where you can participate in classes, use gym equipment, or work with personal trainers.

Football (Soccer)

• Football is a beloved sport in Spain, and you can often find local clubs and pitches where you can join or watch matches.

Golfing Events and Tournaments

• Besides playing golf, many of the golf courses in the area host tournaments and events throughout the year, attracting players from around the world.

Restaurants

Marbella´s dining scene is up there with some of the best spots in the world, from street tapas to Michelin star dinning in one of the many top quality restaurants that decorate the Old Town and beach.

Restaurants

Amanhavis Restaurant

• Cuisine: Mediterranean with Andalusian influences
• Location: Calle Pilar 3, Benahavís, 29679, Málaga, Spain
• Website: Amanhavis Restaurant
• Description: Located within the Amanhavis Hotel, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and specializes in Mediterranean cuisine infused with local flavors. It’s known for its intimate setting and creative dishes.

Restaurante Rufino

• Cuisine: Traditional Spanish, grilled meats, seafood
• Location: Calle Málaga 4, Benahavís, 29679, Málaga, Spain
• Website: No website available; typically local and well-known
• Description: A family-run restaurant known for its traditional Spanish dishes, particularly grilled meats and fresh seafood. It has a charming terrace with beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Divine Restaurant by Sergio Arola

• Cuisine: Modern Spanish cuisine
• Location: Villa Padierna Palace Hotel, Carretera de Cádiz Km 166, Benahavís, 29679, Málaga, Spain
• Website: Divine Restaurant
• Description: Located within the luxurious Villa Padierna Palace Hotel, Divine Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a modern interpretation of Spanish cuisine. It’s known for its innovative dishes and elegant ambiance.

La Escalera de Manolo

• Cuisine: Spanish, seafood, grilled meats
• Location: Calle Málaga 8, Benahavís, 29679, Málaga, Spain
• Website: La Escalera de Manolo
• Description: A popular restaurant offering traditional Spanish cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and grilled meats. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere and a terrace that’s perfect for dining al fresco.

Restaurante Benahavís

• Cuisine: Spanish, Mediterranean
• Location: Plaza del Castillo, Benahavís, 29679, Málaga, Spain
• Website: No website available; typically local and well-known
• Description: Located in the central Plaza del Castillo, this restaurant offers a menu featuring Spanish and Mediterranean dishes, including paella and seafood specialties. It’s known for its traditional Andalusian decor and friendly service.

Da Pino Restaurante Italiano

• Cuisine: Italian
• Location: C. Malaga, 24, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
• Website: Momo Ristorante Italiano
• Description: If you’re craving Italian cuisine, Da Pino Ristorante Italiano is a popular choice in Benahavís. It offers a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and traditional Italian desserts in a cozy setting.

COTO

• Cuisine: International
• Location: Ctra. de Ronda, A-397, Km. 44, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga
• Website: Trocadero Arena Benahavís
• Description:
• Recently refurbished restaurant & bar serving international cuisine with a modern twist. Located on the Carretera Ronda, the restaurant offers stunning views of the Andalusian landscape all the way down to the Mediterranean Sea.

El Casar del Conde

• Cuisine: Traditional Spanish
• Location: Calle Almargen, 10, Benahavís, 29679, Málaga, Spain
• Website: No website available; typically local and well-known
• Description: Situated in a charming Andalusian house, El Casar del Conde offers a menu focused on traditional Spanish flavors with a modern twist. It’s a cozy restaurant with a lovely courtyard for outdoor dining.

Private Schools

Marbella is home to a variety of extremely high-quality private schools that offer international curriculums and cater to both local and expatriate families from around the globe. Most of the children at these schools will achieve high grades and speak several languages,

Private Schools

Laude San Pedro International College

• Curriculum: British National Curriculum and Spanish Curriculum
• Age Range: 3 to 18 years
• Languages: English and Spanish
• Description: Located in San Pedro de Alcántara, this school offers a balanced education with a focus on personal development and academic achievement. It caters to both local and international students.
• Website: Laude San Pedro International College

Atalaya Colegio Internacional

• Location: Ctra. Benahavís, Km 0.7, Estepona, Málaga, Spain
• Curriculum: Spanish curriculum with an international perspective
• Ages: 3 to 18 years
• Website: Atalaya Colegio Internacional
• Description: Atalaya Colegio Internacional offers a bilingual education with a strong emphasis on languages, preparing students for both Spanish and international higher education.

Colegio San Jose

• Location: Urb. Guadalmina Baja, San Pedro de Alcántara, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
• Curriculum: Spanish curriculum with international programs
• Ages: 3 to 18 years
• Website: Colegio San Jose
• Description: Located near Benahavís, Colegio San Jose is known for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive education that includes a wide range of extracurricular activities.

The Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Benahavís is flourishing, characterized by high demand for luxury villas and estates, especially in prestigious gated communities like La Zagaleta, driven by affluent international buyers seeking exclusivity, tranquility, and premium amenities.

Market Dynamics

Demand and Buyer Profile

The real estate market in Benahavís primarily caters to affluent international buyers, including retirees, expatriates, and investors from Northern Europe, the Middle East, and increasingly from North America and Asia. These buyers are drawn to the area’s luxurious properties, excellent golf courses, and the village’s reputation as a culinary hotspot.

Property Types and Popular Areas

• Luxury Villas and Estates: Benahavís is famous for its high-end villas and estates, especially in gated communities such as La Zagaleta and El Madroñal. These properties often feature expansive plots, panoramic views, and state-of-the-art amenities.
• Golf Properties: The area boasts several prestigious golf courses, including Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club and La Quinta Golf & Country Club, making properties in these areas highly desirable.
• New Developments: There has been a rise in new luxury developments offering contemporary designs and modern amenities, appealing to those looking for the latest in real estate trends.

Pricing Trends

• Average Prices: The average price per square meter in Benahavís reflects its luxury status, with prices generally ranging from €3,500 to €6,000 per square meter in high-end areas. Ultra-luxury properties in exclusive communities like La Zagaleta can exceed €10,000 per square meter.
• Price Growth: The market has seen steady price growth, driven by limited supply and high demand. According to various real estate reports, prices have been increasing at an average rate of 5-8% per year.

Investment Opportunities

Benahavís offers various investment opportunities:

• Exclusive Developments: Investing in properties within prestigious communities like La Zagaleta can yield significant returns due to their high desirability and limited availability.
• Renovation Projects: Older properties in prime locations offer opportunities for renovation and value addition.
• Buy-to-Let: Given the strong demand for holiday rentals, investing in luxury villas and apartments for short-term leasing can be highly profitable.

Market Influences

Economic Factors

• Tourism and Expatriate Demand: The robust tourism industry and the influx of expatriates support the high demand for real estate.
• Economic Stability: Spain’s economic stability and favorable mortgage conditions contribute positively to the market dynamics.

Infrastructure and Amenities

• Transport and Accessibility: Benahavís is well-connected to major transport links, including the AP-7 motorway and Málaga Airport, enhancing its appeal.
• Local Amenities: The village offers a wealth of amenities, from world-class golf courses and fine dining restaurants to top-notch healthcare facilities and international schools.

Challenges

While the market in Benahavís is strong, it faces some challenges:

• High Entry Costs: The luxury nature of the market means high entry costs, which can limit the buyer pool.
• Economic Fluctuations: The market is sensitive to broader economic conditions, both within Spain and internationally.

Future Outlook

The outlook for the real estate market in Benahavís remains positive, with continued demand expected from international buyers. Ongoing developments and infrastructure improvements will likely sustain market growth. The village’s combination of luxury, privacy, and natural beauty ensures it remains a top choice for high-end property seekers.

In summary, Benahavís offers a dynamic and lucrative real estate market characterized by luxury properties, strong demand, and steady price growth. Its strategic location, combined with an upscale lifestyle and excellent amenities, makes it a prime destination for real estate investment on the Costa del Sol.