Nestled in the picturesque hills just 7 km inland from the Costa del Sol, Benahavis is a charming Spanish town that has become a prime destination for golfers and those seeking a tranquil, nature-filled lifestyle. Part of the coveted “Golden Triangle” that includes Marbella and Estepona, Benahavis offers an authentic Andalusian ambiance combined with world-class amenities and easy access to the coast.
Surrounded by the Sierra Blanca mountains and criss-crossed by three rivers – the Guadalmina, Guadaiza, and Guadalmansa – Benahavis is a municipality that encompasses 145 square kilometers of unspoiled natural beauty. Despite its secluded setting, the town is just a 20-minute drive from the glitz and glamour of Marbella and the upscale marina of Puerto Banús. This strategic location, paired with Benahavis’ enviable Mediterranean climate of over 320 days of sunshine per year, makes it a true oasis for those seeking an elevated quality of life.
The Benahavis property market caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, from charming townhouses and apartments within the town itself to sprawling luxury estates and villas in the surrounding countryside. The architectural diversity reflects the area’s blend of traditional Andalusian and contemporary design.
Within the town of Benahavis, you’ll find a selection of whitewashed townhouses and apartments, some with roots dating back centuries. These properties offer a taste of authentic Spanish living, often clustered around the town’s narrow, picturesque streets. For those seeking a more modern and amenity-rich lifestyle, the surrounding urbanizations like El Casar, Benahavis Hills Country Club, and La Heredia provide comfortable homes with access to shared facilities and services.
Venture beyond the town limits, and the Benahavis property market opens up to include some of the most prestigious and sought-after real estate in the region. Gated communities like La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, and Reserva del Alcuzcuz offer expansive villas and estates set amidst vast, secluded lots. These properties, ranging from €2 million to over €17 million, cater to those seeking unparalleled privacy, luxury, and access to world-class golf courses.
Prices in Benahavis span a wide spectrum, with smaller townhouses and apartments starting around €300,000, while the most exclusive villas and estates can fetch upwards of €17 million. The average villa in the area typically sells for between €3 million and €4 million, reflecting the community’s reputation for high-end living in a tranquil, natural setting.
Benahavis is renowned as the “Dining Room of the Costa del Sol” for its exceptional culinary scene, with over 30 restaurants per square kilometer – more than any other town in Andalusia. From quaint tapas bars and cafés to Michelin-starred establishments, the village offers a diverse array of gastronomic delights that have earned it a reputation as a foodie’s paradise.
Beyond its culinary attractions, Benahavis is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and golfers alike. The municipality is home to several renowned golf courses, including La Quinta Golf & Country Club, Club de Golf El Higueral, Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, Flamingos Golf Club, Marbella Golf Club, and the prestigious La Zagaleta Golf and Country Club, considered one of the best in Europe. These championship-level fairways, set against the stunning mountain and coastal backdrops, draw golf aficionados from around the world.
For those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle, Benahavis offers ample opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. The nearby Lago de las Tortugas (Turtle Lake) and the unspoiled landscapes of the Sierra de las Nieves UNESCO Biosphere Reserve provide a tranquil respite from the bustle of the coast.
Families are well-catered for in Benahavis, with several international schools within a 15- to 30-minute drive, including Atalaya International School, Saint-Georges School, Laude San Pedro International College, and Aloha College in neighboring Nueva Andalucía.
With its world-class golf courses, exceptional gastronomy, and direct access to nature, Benahavis has firmly established itself as a premier destination for those seeking a luxury lifestyle in a serene, yet well-connected, setting. Its position within the coveted Golden Triangle, combined with the area’s natural beauty and high-end amenities, make Benahavis a true golfer’s paradise on the Costa del Sol.
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