Set in the Golden Triangle, Monte Mayor offers stunning views of the Andalusian countryside and the Mediterranean Sea, stretching to Gibraltar and North Africa. This gated community blends natural beauty, privacy, and upscale amenities, just 15 minutes from the coast and vibrant towns.

Tucked away in the scenic hills of Benahavís, Monte Mayor –”Supreme Mountain” or “Grand Mountain” in English– offers an exclusive, secure retreat with stunning views of the Andalusian countryside and the Mediterranean Sea, stretching to Gibraltar and North Africa. This prestigious gated community is highly sought after for luxury property investment, thanks to its blend of natural beauty, privacy, and upscale amenities.

Monte Mayor’s appeal lies in its tranquil atmosphere, with minimal traffic and a serene environment that feels worlds away from the bustle of the coast. The community’s carefully planned layout ensures that over half of its expansive 330-hectare estate is preserved as green belt land, maintaining the area’s natural charm. The history of Monte Mayor adds to its unique character, with roots stretching back to the early 16th century during the era of Muslim rule.

Monte Mayor’s roots stretch back to the early 16th century, during the time of Muslim rule. The hill where the community now thrives once served as a strategic watchtower for the Moors. As Christian forces advanced during the Reconquista, the area transitioned into a hub for olive and almond farming by the 18th century. A small settlement emerged in the 19th century, eventually blossoming into the town of Benahavís.

Monte Mayor, as it stands today, began in the 1990s when investors envisioned a luxury gated community that would blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. The area’s rich history is still visible through the ruins of a 10th-century Moorish fortress overlooking the valley.

Located in the Golden Triangle (Marbella – Estepona – Benahavís), Monte Mayor offers exclusive rural living just 15 minutes by car from the coast. Despite its slightly secluded setting, the community is well-connected to the AP-7 toll road, offering easy access to nearby areas such as Estepona, San Pedro Alcántara, and Puerto Banús, as well as the cities of Marbella and Málaga.

Here are the distances to the main points of interest:

Beach. 7 km. 

Puerto Banús. 19 km – 32 minutes. Directions

Marbella City Centre. 28 km – 40 minutes. Directions

San Pedro Alcántara. 14 km – 25 minutes. Directions

Estepona. 22 km – 32 minutes. Directions

Málaga. 84 km – 1.10 hrs. Directions

Málaga International Airport. 74 km – 58 minutes via AP7. Directions

Gibraltar International Airport. 66 km – +1 hr. via AP7. Directions

Monte Mayor is designed with a low-density layout: of the 330 hectares, 54% is preserved as green space, ensuring that much of the land remains untouched. The average plot size is around 3,000 square metres, with a construction allowance of just 12%, guaranteeing privacy.

On one hand, there are villas for sale, many of which feature traditional Andalusian and contemporary designs. These villas are set on spacious plots and come with amenities such as private swimming pools, carefully maintained gardens and outdoor entertainment areas. On the other hand, the gated community includes the charming Andalusian village of La Heredia, which comprises 53 uniquely designed 2 and 3-bedroom  townhouses. Combinan Sevillian tiles, antique wooden doors and decorative wrought iron grills for windows. Additionally, there are more than 50 plots available for those looking to build their dream home from scratch. The plots come in all shapes and sizes but usually cover a minimum area of at least 3,000m2 on which one can build on average 300m2 to 400m2 of living space.

Monte Mayor’s real estate market is known for its exclusivity and high value, featuring some of the most sought-after and luxurious properties in the Marbella area. Villa prices in Monte Mayor generally range from €1 million to over €10 million, depending on size, location, and the level of luxury and amenities. On average, a villa in this community costs between €3 million and €5 million. Plot prices vary from €140,000 to €300,000.

Monte Mayor’s stunning natural surroundings are perfect for enjoying nature trails with amazing views of the hills and valleys. But that’s just the beginning—there are also top-tier sports facilities to explore. Here are some key highlights:

Perfect Your Swing. Monte Mayor is ideally located for golf enthusiasts, with 13 top-notch golf courses nearby. Some of the best include Marbella Club Golf Resort, Alferini Golf, Flamingos Golf, Tramores Golf, El Paraíso Golf Club, El Higueral, Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, Atalaya Golf & Country Club, La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa, La Zagaleta, Los Naranjos Golf, Real Golf Club Las Brisas, and Aloha Golf Club.

Beyond the Greens. Villa Padierna Racquet Club is the ultimate destination for tennis and padel enthusiasts. Located just 50 meters from the beach, the club features two tennis courts, 15 padel courts, and two regulation croquet lawns, the only ones in Málaga province. Learn padel from top professionals at the Prodigy Padel Academy, the first high-performance padel academy in Spain, located in Marbella and Estepona.

Master Equestrian Arts. The Marbella Club Golf Resort Riding Stables are just a 2-minute drive from Monte Mayor—a luxury for horse riding enthusiasts. For a more extensive experience, only 15 minutes away, the Escuela De Arte Ecuestre Costa Del Sol is one of the largest and most prestigious equestrian centers in Spain, boasting some of the finest facilities in Europe.

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. 

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 

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.

Eating by the sea is always a good idea. Here are five beach clubs not to be missed close to Monte Mayor.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Monte Mayor, Benahavís 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.” 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 specialising 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.

Monte Mayor is a residential area, which means there are no immediate services in the vicinity. However, 15 minutes away is the village of Benahavís, offering essential shops for everyday needs. For larger shopping trips, there’s a supermarket 10 km away, and the nearest extensive shopping options are in San Pedro Alcántara. A bit farther, in Marbella, you’ll find a wide array of central shops and the La Cañada shopping centre. Additionally, Puerto Banús hosts one of the largest branches of El Corte Inglés.

Monte Mayor residents enjoy the convenience of having a comprehensive range of medical facilities readily available. 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 24 minutes away, this international hospital offers emergency services and an intensive care unit. Get directions. 

Hospital Cenyt Estepona. 26 minutes from Monte Mayor, 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 31 minutes away, this public hospital offers 24/7 emergency services throughout the week. Get directions.

Costa del Sol Hospital. Located approximately 32 km away, it’s a 35-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.

As Monte Mayor is a residential community, no schools can be found within its boundaries, but the surrounding areas, such as Benahavís, Marbella, and Estepona, offer a wide range of options listed below.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 is renowned for its outstanding IGCSE results.

Towards San Pedro Alcántara and Marbella 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. Enjoy the peace and quiet of a private, gated community lodged in the hills of Benahavís, far from the hustle and bustle.

2. Wake up to panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar, and the African coastline, all from your own backyard.

3. Live in style with bespoke, high-end villas that blend traditional Andalusian charm with modern amenities.

4. Experience unmatched privacy and space, with large plots and a community designed to harmonize with nature.

5. Perfect your swing at some of the Costa del Sol’s finest golf courses, just minutes from your door.

6. Embrace an active lifestyle with nature trails, equestrian centres, and outdoor sports facilities right at your doorstep.

7. While you enjoy the tranquillity of the hills, essential shops and services in Benahavís are just a short drive away.

8. Benefit from proximity to some of the best international schools in the region, ensuring top-tier education for your family.

9. Enjoy peace of mind with access to high-quality healthcare facilities and top medical professionals in nearby Marbella and Estepona.

10. Despite its secluded feel, Monte Mayor is conveniently connected to Marbella, Puerto Banús, and Estepona, offering easy access to world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment.