Just 7 km from the coast and minutes from Marbella and Estepona, Benahavis combines narrow jasmine-scented streets with modern gated communities. It also offers 12 golf courses, all set against the backdrop of Serranía de Ronda. Benahavís stands as Spain’s second town for golf and boasts the highest concentration of restaurants on the Costa del Sol.

The very name of this enchanting whitewashed Andalusian village, perched on the slopes of the Serranía de Ronda, speaks of its origins. Founded by the Arabs in the 9th century, it still retains a Moorish aura with its maze of narrow streets and whitewashed buildings that coexist with modern gated communities and golf courses that have transformed the landscape.

In the old town, the plan is to get lost among streets scented with jasmine and night-blooming cereus, while enjoying tapas at various restaurants with terraces offering spectacular views of the mountains, the sea, and even Africa. Choosing one is a challenge, because Benahavís holds the record for the highest concentration of restaurants on the Costa del Sol, earning it the nickname “The Dining Room of Andalusia.”

If records are the topic, this area is also recognised for the number of golf courses lodged within. Benahavís boasts 12 (216 holes in total), making it the second town in Spain with the most, surpassed only by Marbella. In fact, together with Marbella and Estepona, it forms the Golden Triangle, a luxury destination where many of the region’s courses and services for golfers are concentrated.

Surrounded by mountain peaks, winding rivers (the Guadalmina, Guadalmansa, and Guadaiza), and virgin forests with stunning views, Benahavís offers a unique landscape. A diverse cosmopolitan and multicultural population resides here, just 7 kilometres from the coast and a few minutes from Marbella and Estepona.

Beyond the old town, the municipality extends over approximately 150 km², covering a wide area from the coastal zone to the mountains between Marbella and Estepona. Due to the luxurious country clubs and residential developments that surround the village, Benahavís ranks as one of the richest municipalities in Spain. These include La Zagaleta – one of the most exclusive gated country clubs in Europe – and the Villa Padierna five-star deluxe hotel and golf resort, as well as golf resorts such as Los Arqueros and La Quinta. It also includes the exclusive areas of El Madroñal, Los Flamingos, Montemayor, La Alquería, and El Paraíso.

Benahavís is a very exclusive place where privacy is guaranteed, as well as peace, being far but close to everything. It invites a natural lifestyle marked by good gastronomy, and by the sea and mountain air that invite enjoyment of this paradise where the sun shines 320 days a year.

It’s important to understand that Benahavís refers both to the white Andalusian village and the municipality itself, which spans 145.45 km², making it one of the largest on the Costa del Sol. This area includes numerous residential complexes and natural areas.

Located between Estepona and Marbella, just minutes from Puerto Banús and the centre of San Pedro Alcántara, Benahavís old town is perfectly connected to the main routes of the Costa del Sol, the A7 motorway, and the AP7 toll road. These are the two main highways that serve the Costa del Sol, with the AP7 allowing for faster travel, especially during the busy summer months. 

Below, we outline the approximate distances in kilometres and minutes, taking Benahavís old town as a reference. However, it is essential to check traffic conditions before setting out to decide which route to take:

Beach. 9.3 km – 15 minutes.

Marbella. 20.1 km – 31 minutes. Directions

Puerto Banús. 12.5 km – 18 minutes. Directions

San Pedro Alcántara. 10.4 km – 15 minutes. Directions

Estepona. 23.6 km – 24 minutes. Directions

Málaga International Airport. 69.3 km – 50 minutes. Directions

Gibraltar International Airport. 66.4 km – +1 hour. Directions

Benahavís offers various types of properties depending on the area. The old town features townhouses, historic villas, and apartments. Outside the village, the municipality provides many options where privacy is paramount. These are generally gated communities, country clubs, exclusive villas, and residential areas surrounded by nature or golf courses. There are also many new contemporary developments with on-site facilities such as spas, heated pools, gyms, and concierge services.

The most expensive and exclusive areas are La Zagaleta and Villa Padierna. El Madroñal offers country-style houses within gated communities with 24-hour security. La Reserva del Alcuzcuz features villas on plots of up to 60,000 m² with security at the main entrance. There are also apartment complexes with sea views. Los Arqueros and Puerto del Almendro have apartments around the golf course. La Quinta area includes villas, apartments, and townhouses. Vega Colorado is a gated community with villas offering fantastic views of the Mediterranean. La Alquería has seen high demand in recent years, with architecture ranging from traditional homes to very modern and contemporary villas. Although some parts of La Alquería are densely built, it is notable for its 18-hole golf course with great views.

Costs will always vary depending on the type of property and location. Given Benahavís’ unique characteristic of having upscale gated communities, prices can vary significantly. An older villa can start from €1,200,000 and go up to €4,000,000 for a more modern one with sea views. Apartments, mostly located in the commercial area, can range from €170,000 to €2,000,000 for three or four bedrooms. Townhouses start at around €300,000.

In addition to the picturesque old town dotted with restaurants, cafes, and art shops, everything in Benahavís revolves around nature. To the south of the town centre, Torre Leoneras Park houses the ruins of a medieval tower and a large lake. A bit further southwest, you can reach the ruins of Montemayor Castle, built in the 10th century, to see its intact walls and stunning views of the Costa del Sol. Another great plan is to visit the market held every Sunday morning at the Ermita grounds, just a few minutes from the village, where you can hunt for antiques, second-hand clothes, local produce, and even try unforgettable churros.

Benahavís is home to 12 golf courses, totalling 216 holes, making it the second town in Spain with the highest number of golf courses, surpassed only by Marbella. Alongside Marbella and Estepona, it forms the Golden Triangle, a luxury destination that concentrates many of the region’s premier courses and golf services. Renowned designers such as Dave Thomas (Marbella Club Golf Resort), Severiano Ballesteros (Los Arqueros), and Manuel Piñero (La Quinta) have left their mark on the courses in Benahavís. Additionally, the Municipal Golf Academy offers a splendid practice range, complemented by a large bunker, approach area, and putting green.

Here is a list of the golf courses you can enjoy in Benahavís:

Villa Padierna. The area boasts three courses with a total of 54 holes, 17 outdoor driving bays, and a buggy bar that serves refreshments between nines. Each course offers a unique experience. Flamingos Golf was designed by Antonio García Garrido and features a large panoramic lake with gently undulating fairways and greens inspired by Tuscany. Alferini Golf. is known for its challenging layout with stunning sea and mountain views. Tramores Golf is a smaller, yet beautiful course, ideal for improving short-game skills and offering a more relaxed playing experience amidst lush landscapes. 

The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa. Designed by the three-time World Champion and Ryder Cup champion Manuel Piñero, La Quinta Golf is one of the most attractive golf clubs in the area and is suitable for all levels of play. La Quinta Golf Club has 27 holes divided into three courses of nine holes each: Golf Course A “San Pedro,” Golf Course B “Ronda,” and Golf Course C “Guadaiza,” the most technical course, ideal for advanced players who will need to use a wide range of shots.

La Zagaleta. Features two exclusive golf courses. Designed by renowned architect Brad Benz in 1991 and redesigned by Marc Westenborg in 2016, the Old Golf Course is for members only. It offers 18 holes set in an amphitheatre of wooded hills, rising peaks with views of the sea, lakes, and a forest scenery where deer roam. The New Golf Course, a par 70, offers a unique experience immersed in nature. Together, they provide an uninterrupted 36-hole experience in a pristine setting.

Atalaya Golf & Country Club. Opened in 1968, the Old Course was designed by Bernhard von Limburger, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs on the coast. Von Limburger was responsible for 74 courses across Europe, though Atalaya is his only course in Spain. The New Course, added in 1990, was designed by Paul Krings.

Marbella Club Golf Resort. Features an 18-hole course designed by Dave Thomas, offering spectacular views of Gibraltar, the African coastline, the Mediterranean, and the surrounding mountains. The clubhouse operates out of a thatched cottage overlooking the golf courses and the lake at the 1st hole. The Mediterranean restaurant is run by Juan Galvez, the Michelin-starred Executive Chef of the Marbella Club.

Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club. Offers a magnificent 18-hole, par 71 course designed by the legendary Severiano Ballesteros in 1991 with mountain views over the Mediterranean Sea.

El Higueral Golf. It is a picturesque 9-hole, par 36 resort course lodged on the gentle slopes of the foothills in Benahavís.

The landscape of Benahavís, adorned with almond and chestnut trees that turn a copper hue in autumn, is already a compelling reason to visit. As the gateway to the stunning Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, this destination is deeply intertwined with nature. There are numerous ways to experience its natural beauty throughout the year.

Equestrian Activities. Benahavís is an ideal place to start practising this traditional Spanish sport. One of the most picturesque stables in the area is at Marbella Club Golf Resort. This modern facility is one of the best in the country and houses a diverse range of horses, including Arabian, Spanish, German, and French breeds. Alternatively, Marbella Horses, offers premier training with a dressage arena, show jumping course, scenic trails, and a Pony Club. Both centres deliver exceptional experiences guided by leading experts. 

Canyoning. The rugged terrain of Benahavís makes it an ideal location for canyoning adventures in the region’s river gorges. The Guadalmina River, in particular, offers the perfect setting for families to walk downstream and rappel (suitable for ages 6 and up). The adventure begins with sliding down a natural stone slide into the Charca de las Mozas, declared Natural Monument by the Junta de Andalucía. From there, the journey continues downstream. Given that the water in the pools can be quite cold, it’s best to undertake this activity in the summer and preferably during the week. Several providers offer this adventure experience; here is one example.

Hiking. There’s no better landscape for enjoying long walks through Mediterranean forests at the foot of one of Andalusia’s most picturesque white villages. Benahavís offers several family-friendly hiking trails. Among the most popular are the Acequias del Río Guadalmina trail, which begins about 400 meters before the Cañón de las Angosturas bridge; the Castillo de Montemayor trail, which starts from the old town and ascends to the castle ruins, providing stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the African coast; and the Sendero de las Libélulas del Guadalmina-Cañada de Juan Miná, a circular route that encircles the Guadalmina Reservoir.

Mountain Biking and Enduro. The numerous trails in Benahavís can be explored on foot, by bicycle, or on an off-road motorcycle. For those who prefer not to venture out alone, there are companies that organize group excursions for mountain biking and enduro. 

Play It All. At Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, you can enjoy not only golf but also a range of other activities. The facilities include pickleball, padel, tennis, and a gym. For family fun, there’s also bowling and billiards, plus a sports bar that serves pizzas and burgers. 

Surf and Kitesurf Lessons. For those looking to conquer the Mediterranean waters, Freedom KiteSchool offers premier surf and kitesurf lessons. Established in Estepona in 2005, it is the area’s first kitesurf school, providing top-tier instruction.

Spa and Wellness. After a day of intense outdoor activities, relaxing is always a great idea. The area features several upscale hotels with perfect options for unwinding. Notably, the Villa Padierna hotel boasts its Anantara Spa, which offers over 2,000 square meters of Roman baths, a hammam, and a pool surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens. The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa also provides a water circuit and eight treatment rooms designed in Moorish style.

Eating by the sea is always a good idea. Here are some beach clubs not to be missed sorted by distance, with a maximum of 22 minutes by car.

Barbillón Marbella. This is the beach version of the renowned Madrid restaurant. It spans 4,000 sqm offering relaxation on beach hammocks, swimming in a sea-view pool, or tasting any of its dishes with the feet in the water, on the sand, or at one of the elegant restaurant tables.

Salduna Beach. This beach club combines Mediterranean classics with international flavours, offering a unique fusion menu. Highlights include tuna tartare with jalapeño gazpacho and swordfish tacos marinated in soy and yuzu. Its terrace and chill-out area provide the perfect setting to enjoy signature cocktails and stunning sunsets. Salduna Beach is a versatile spot for dining, relaxing, or hosting events by the sea.

AMMO. Here is where luxury meets laid-back cool—think signature cocktails by the pool, chilled beach vibes, and personalized events by the sea. It’s your go-to for leisurely yet relaxed days.

Azure Beach Marbella. This is the beach club of Mett Hotel & Beach Resort, also found at the Rixos Hotel in Dubai, now by the Mediterranean. It features an infinity pool for a refreshing dip, followed by Pan-Asian cuisine with an exotic cocktail in hand.

By the Sea Beach Club. The fabulous beach club at Anatara Villa Padierna Palace beckons with lunch, dinner, cocktails, and the finest wines by the sea. Its kitchen prepares exquisite Andalusian and Mediterranean dishes.

Sublim Beach Club. Located in the newly rebuilt Laguna Village, it invites enjoying a cocktail by the pool, soaking up the Costa del Sol sun, surrendering to one of the spa’s personalized treatments, or relishing Mediterranean cuisine right on the beach.

Nido. Beach days at Nido unfold in a bohemian setting with Mediterranean-inspired dishes by Chef Franco Franceschini, soft music, the blue waters of the sea, and the crystal-clear pool, all within a paradisiacal environment.

Close to The Golden Mile

Chambao. Situated within the Puente Romano Beach Resort, Chambao is a boutique beach and pool club ideal for enjoying Andalusian flavours and Mediterranean vistas against the backdrop of stunning sunsets.

Coya Pool. It’s Puente Romano’s invitation to savour the flavours of Peru, surrounded by wild foliage and tribal beats, but at the feet of the Mediterranean and an elegant pool under Marbella’s sun.

Beach Club. The chic beach club at Marbella Club Hotel embodies a retro Acapulco vibe, creating the perfect setting for enjoying Mexican cuisine or a refreshing piña colada. With its restaurant, bar, and pool, it’s the perfect destination for a day of beachside relaxation.

MC Beach. Lodged within the Marbella Club Hotel, this beach club draws inspiration from traditional Malaga chiringuitos. Perfect for savouring delicious seafood dishes with a touch of Mediterranean flair.

Playa Padre. This beach club in Marbella is the ultimate haven for daytime relaxation, capturing the spirit of Mexico. As the sun sets, the ambience shifts—vibrant beats from the DJ rise with the evening sky, creating an unforgettable party atmosphere. The legendary Boho Sunday parties are a highlight, making it the perfect spot to unwind and celebrate the good life.

As mentioned in the introduction to Benahavís, the old town holds the record for the highest concentration of restaurants on the Costa del Sol, earning it the nickname “The Dining Room of Andalusia.” Here, you can find exquisitely crafted dishes made with both seafood and local mountain fares like suckling pig, rabbit, and venison. Additionally, the area offers a broad selection of international cuisine. To maintain this defining aspect of its identity, Benahavís boasts its own Hispano-Arabic Hospitality School, which has been training professionals in the culinary sector for over a decade.

Below, we highlight some of the most charming restaurants in and around Benahavís, with a special section dedicated to those who want to enjoy excellent cuisine with views of the golf courses.

La Taberna Fantástica. Mediterranean and market cuisine by Chef Aquiles Fernández, featuring grill, aged meats, and fresh fish. Flamenco shows on Fridays. Closed on Wednesdays.

Los Abanicos. A classic specializing in Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine.

Coto. Located between the entrances of La Zagaleta and El Madroñal, this is a must-visit for its dishes and views. The building boasts clean lines, noble materials, and abundant natural light. A terrace surrounded by water and the vastness of the mountains. A wine cellar with the finest labels and a menu that combines Mediterranean dishes with a twist. 

El Guarda 1926. This family-run restaurant is a classic, offering local dishes with contemporary twists and grilled meats, perfectly complemented by a curated selection of regional wines.

Dining with views of the golf course

LA View. Located at Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, offers a terrace with stunning views of the golf course, the Benahavís hills, and the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, the country club features La Green Café, where you can enjoy a simple and light breakfast, lunch, or dinner made with high-quality ingredients on a sunny Marbella terrace. The carta includes pasta, fish, meat, and a children’s menu.

Club House. While not a name but rather the location, the Marbella Club Golf Resort’s restaurant operates within a thatched cottage overlooking the golf courses and the lake at the 1st hole. Here, Mediterranean cuisine is overseen by Juan Galvez, the Michelin-starred Executive Chef of the Marbella Club.

Arbonauta. Opened in 2023 at the New Golf Course of La Zagaleta, is managed by Delicias Gourmet Group. Their “travelling cuisine” concept serves healthy gourmet dishes all day long, accompanied by breathtaking views of the golf course.

Hole 55. Villa Padierna offers many fine dining options, but Hole 55 is a golfer’s choice. Its terrace is the perfect spot for light bites, especially on Wednesdays when there’s a live paella show.

Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar. The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa’s Clubhouse is the place to enjoy a snack or coffee on a large terrace with panoramic views of the golf course.

The village of Benahavís offers essential shops for everyday needs, along with stores for curiosities and souvenirs. For larger shopping trips, there is a supermarket 8 km away, but the nearest options are in San Pedro Alcántara, just 10 km away, or Marbella, a bit farther, where you can find all the central shops and the La Cañada Shopping Center. Additionally, Puerto Banús, 12 km away, hosts one of the largest branches of El Corte Inglés.

Benahavís residents enjoy the convenience of having a comprehensive range of medical facilities readily available, from state-of-the-art hospitals to specialized clinics. This ensures residents can receive prompt and effective medical care whenever needed. Here are the key addresses to have on hand in case of need.

Hospiten. Just 17 minutes away, this international hospital offers emergency services and an intensive care unit. Get directions. 

Hospital Cenyt Estepona. 24 minutes from Benahavís, this private hospital provides over 40 medical specialities and a team of more than 160 experts. Get directions.

Hospital de Alta Resolución de Estepona. About 30 minutes away, this public hospital offers 24/7 emergency services throughout the week.  Get directions.

Costa del Sol Hospital. Serves as the primary public hospital in the vicinity. Located approximately 25 km away, it’s a 24-minute drive via the A7. Travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions. Get directions.

Other private medical centres in nearby areas include HC Marbella International Hospital, RS64 Clinic, Clínica Premium, Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella and Hospital Ochoa.

In addition, Helicopteros Sanitarios offers a 24-hour private home medical service. Get directions.

The Costa del Sol offers a wide range of educational options, with a strong and reputable system that includes some of the best private schools in Spain and internationally. Education in Spain is divided into three stages: early childhood (ages 3-6), primary (ages 6-12), and secondary (ages 12-16), with an optional final stage from 16-18 years. Primary and secondary education are mandatory.

Parents can choose from Spanish state schools, concertado schools (government-funded but privately managed), or international schools offering bilingual education with a strong emphasis on English. Many expats start with public schools and switch to private institutions for university preparation.

Private school fees range from €2,000 to over €10,000 annually, making them more affordable than in Northern Europe and North America, yet providing a high-quality, multicultural education.

Below is a list of highly recommended schools in the area and its surroundings.

In Benahavís

Creators International School. Very close to the old town, a new school has opened its doors. Focused on maths and science, it gathers only 12 students per class. Currently, it accepts students between the ages of 7 and 14, with the goal of shaping the next generation of tech pioneers, innovators, and world leaders.

CEIP Daidín. It is a public school offering education for early childhood, primary, and secondary levels. 

Towards Estepona

International School Estepona. Founded in 2004, this British primary and nursery school, located in El Paraiso, is set within a secure 3,700 sq metre compound. Catering to children aged 2-12 years, it offers a stimulating environment and follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales, providing a high-quality education in Spain.

Swedish International School. Located between Estepona and San Pedro Alcántara (Marbella), the school follows the Swedish curriculum blended with Spanish elements and modern pedagogy.

Mayfair School. Located in Atalaya Park on the New Golden Mile, Estepona, offers a high-quality, personalised education from ages 3 to 18, following the English National Curriculum. Set in beautiful gardens, it is renowned for its outstanding IGCSE results.

Colegio San José. A private bilingual school offering education in both Spanish and English, this institution covers all stages of the Spanish Educational System and provides the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Notably, Colegio San José is ranked among the 100 Best Schools in Spain.

Atlas American School of Málaga. Offers education from early years to high school following the American curriculum. While English is the primary language, the school complies with Spanish regulations, including mandatory hours in Spanish language and culture. Additionally, it offers an intensive French program starting from Grade 3.

Queens British Grammar School. Located in Estepona, Málaga, is a small, British international school offering a personalised education with small class sizes. Catering to pupils from early years through to Secondary (IGCSE) and A-Levels, the school provides a supportive and focused learning environment.

Towards San Pedro Alcántara and Marbella 

Calpe School. A bilingual school following the British National Curriculum for children aged 2-11. In addition to its academic program, the school organizes various extracurricular activities, such as art, music, and sports workshops. The school is located in the centre of San Pedro Alcántara, making it easily accessible for students.

Laude San Pedro International School. Boasts a diverse community of over 50 nationalities and fosters multilingualism and a growth mindset. Students follow the British National Curriculum from ages 3 to 18, with the option to transition to the Spanish system at 12. Recognized as one of Spain’s top 100 international schools, Laude offers a rigorous academic program, Cambridge English assessments, and a rich arts and technology curriculum.

Saint George’s School. Private bilingual school following the British education system, combines a solid academic education with a focus on personal development. The school has a swimming pool, a vegetable garden, and ample green spaces, where students can enjoy outdoor activities and learn about nature.

The American College in Spain. The first North American High School & University in Andalusia, offering the opportunity to start High School studies and continue the first 2 years of University in Marbella, with the option to transfer to the US or any other accredited American University worldwide.

Aloha College. Offers a world-class British education for students aged 3 to 18. The college’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its Eco-School status and innovative curriculum. A diverse range of sports and extracurricular activities complements academic studies, fostering well-rounded individuals.

British International School of Marbella. The British International School of Marbella offers a world-class British education for children aged 2-12. Its sustainable and modern campus features an indoor swimming pool, spacious sports facilities, and state-of-the-art classrooms, providing a unique and enriching learning environment. The curriculum, validated by the Spanish education system, seamlessly blends academic excellence with a deep respect for the environment.

Swans International School. With over 50 years of experience, follows the British curriculum, preparing students for GCSE or IGCSE exams in Years 10 and 11, and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Sixth Form. It stands out for its extensive sports program, including rugby, hockey, and swimming. Additionally, the school boasts modern facilities and a strong emphasis on performing arts, offering opportunities for students to develop their musical and dramatic talents.

Casa del Mar International Montessori. In San Pedro Alcántara, this AMI-certified school offers a nurturing learning environment for children aged 15 months to 12 years. Its student-centered approach fosters self-directed learning, equipping children with the values, intellectual abilities, and innovation skills necessary for future success.

Efim. It is a French school that follows a hybrid pedagogical model adapted to the French National Education program, while also being trilingual in Spanish, English, and French.

1. Lodged at the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda, offers breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills, almond and chestnut trees that turn copper in autumn, and stunning views of the Mediterranean and Africa.

2. Positioned between Estepona and Marbella, minutes from Puerto Banús and San Pedro Alcántara, Benahavís is perfectly connected to the Costa del Sol’s main routes including the A7 and AP7 highways.

3. From hiking through picturesque Mediterranean forests to canyoning in the Guadalmina River, offers numerous outdoor adventures. The region is ideal for mountain biking, equestrian activities, and enduro year-round outdoor activities thanks to its 320 days of sunshine.

4. Home to 12 golf courses, Benahavís is part of the Golden Triangle with Marbella and Estepona, renowned for its high concentration of world-class golf facilities.

5. The old town is celebrated for its large number of restaurants, earning it the nickname “The Dining Room of Andalusia.”

6. Boasts luxurious gated communities and upscale developments providing high levels of privacy and security in a tranquil setting.

7. The village blends its Moorish heritage with modern amenities. 

8. The area features upscale hotels with top-notch wellness amenities offering a variety of relaxation options.

9. With numerous family-oriented activities like bowling, billiards, and local markets, Benahavís is perfect for families seeking both leisure and adventure.

10. Unlike other areas of the Costa del Sol, the low density of construction ensures a level of privacy that is a value in itself.