Benahavis – Andalucian charm with a cosmopolitan twist

Benahavis has become a fashionable village, which has attracted many foreigners as permanent residents as well as holiday home owners.

With population of under 8,000 residents (2018), it has retained its Andalucian charm, whilst offering a rich mix of cultures.

History

Believed to be established in 11th century by the Moorish Prince of Ethiopian ethnicity, who ruled the region from the castle of Montemayor. The current name of Benahavis is the corruption of Binā’ Ḥabīsh (“The Building of Ḥabīsh” in Arabic). The area was part of the strategic defence of Malaga, which was the main port for import and export in al Andalus. Malaga was the lifeline of the Caliphate of Granada, the fall of which would have meant the end of the last Caliphate of al Andalus. This meant the are became a target during the “Reconquista” as the Moslem Caliphates were reduced to a single Caliphate with its capital in Granada. Whilst Granada was under siege in 1485, the region, including the Castle of Montemayor, Benahavis, Ojen, Marbella, was attacked and captured by the Christian Army.

Benahavis, nestled in Andalusia, Spain, is an ideal tourist destination known for its stunning mountain scenery, luxurious resorts, gourmet dining, charming village atmosphere, and proximity to Marbella’s beaches and golf courses.

Nearby Puerto Banus

Sardinas al espeto are one of the local delicacies

Culinary Experiencies

The rich mix of cultures living in Benahavis is reflected in its variety of restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, with many highly rated restaurants. As a result the town buzzes during meal times, with many visitors joining the locals in sampling and enjoying the rich offering. This is underpinned by the Cookery School of Benahavis (Escuela Hostelería), which has become a recognised place for good training and good food. The school has its own restaurant, which provides an opportunity for the pupils to put their skills into practice, and the public to try out excellent food at reasonable prices.

Activities

The village is surrounded by mountains and forests, with Guadalmina river running through the valley, providing a great place for walking, birdwatching, mountain biking, canyoning, and other activities linked to the river and mountains. Canyon of the Angosturas is about an hour walk or 10 minutes drive, and offers excellent canyoning and river activities (water levels permitting). Golf is a major attraction for the area with Club de Golf El Higueral and Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club being the closest to the Benahavis, and Atalaya Golf & Country Club on the way to A7.

Beaches

The closest beach is the sandy beach of San Pedro with its long and tree-lined promenade. Puerto Banus is only a few minutes on from San Pedro offering not only a great beach, but also a buzzing marina with brand boutiques, restaurants, and activities for the sea lovers. Marbella is of course needs no introduction, offering a long and busy promenade, lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and a marina.

Typical village

If you are staying in Benahavis, you are not short of options for all ages. The mix of tranquil mountains, busy village life, and nearby main towns, you are never short of things to do.