El Madroñal, Benahavís
El Madroñal is one of the most prestigious gated communities on the Costa del Sol, located in the hills of Benahavís, just a short drive from Marbella and Puerto Banús. Perched approximately 400 metres above sea level, it offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean coastline, Gibraltar, and even the mountains of North Africa on clear days. Surrounded by protected cork oak and pine forests, the area offers a tranquil retreat from the coast while maintaining excellent connectivity to beaches, golf courses, international schools, and shopping centres.
Comprising around 150 luxury villas, El Madroñal is known for its privacy, generous plot sizes, and architectural diversity. Properties here range from classic Andalusian-style estates to sleek, contemporary mansions, each offering a unique take on luxury living. Many homes include landscaped gardens, infinity pools, private gyms, wine cellars, and expansive terraces. The minimum plot sizes are typically 2,600 m², with some estates exceeding 10,000 m², ensuring space, seclusion, and an uninterrupted natural setting.
Security is a key feature of the community, with six separate gated entrances and 24-hour surveillance across the entire area. Despite its secluded nature, El Madroñal is only 10 minutes from San Pedro de Alcántara, 15 minutes from Puerto Banús, and 20 minutes from Marbella’s old town. This accessibility, combined with the peaceful forested environment, makes it a favourite among high-net-worth individuals, celebrities, and international families seeking discretion and quality of life.
Historically, El Madroñal formed part of a large hunting estate once owned by the Parladé family and later by Adnan Khashoggi, the Saudi businessman who also owned nearby La Zagaleta. The land was eventually divided into several exclusive enclaves, including El Madroñal and La Reserva de Alcuzcuz. While La Zagaleta offers ultra-exclusive amenities such as private golf and a helipad, El Madroñal appeals to those who value privacy, space, and natural beauty without the same level of communal restrictions.
Today, El Madroñal is regarded as a peaceful, year-round residential destination with growing appeal among younger buyers and digital nomads who appreciate its balance of proximity, prestige, and panoramic beauty.
- Reference
- JUST-00052G
- Types
- Villa, Mansion
- Location
- Benahavis
- Development name
- El Madronal
Additional Features
- Mountainside
- Close to golf
- Closed urbanization
- Private Gardens
- Air Conditioning
- Off street parking
- Security Entrance
- Barbeque
Properties in this development
Luxury, privacy, elegance, views
- 6 beds
- 7 baths
- Plot: 3,757 m²
- Interior: 1,107 m²
Luxurious villa with panoramic views.
- 7 beds
- 8 baths
- Plot: 10,100 m²
- Interior: 1,014 m²
Luxurious, Private, Scenic
- 6 beds
- 5 baths
- Plot: 2,932 m²
- Interior: 522 m²
Elegant Mediterranean Luxury Retreat
- 5 beds
- 5 baths
- Plot: 2,616 m²
- Interior: 573 m²
Tranquil Villa in Gated Community
- 4 beds
- 4 baths
- Plot: 1,666 m²
- Interior: 255 m²


