Benahavís
Where picture postcard village meets modern luxury mansions.
A traditional Andalusian mountain village with all the benefits you would expect of its proximity to upmarket Marbella. Beautiful scenery, golf and gourmet food are all on your doorstep.
For the lucky people who call it home, Benahavís has views spanning Marbella and Estepona and on a good day, as far as the African coastline. Originally founded by Arab settlers in the 11th century, its elevated position provided an effective lookout against frequent raids by pirates and invading forces.
Today the town has retained much of its rural charm, with the benefit of additional amenities such as golf courses, hotels and excellent restaurants, which draw crowds from the more upmarket coastal towns. The charm of the old town and the natural beauty of the surrounding area has also proved to be an inspiration for the town’s artistic community.
Benahavís is a paradise for nature lovers, offering hiking routes between the twin peaks and past riverbanks lined with chestnut and olive trees. It is a rugged, dramatic landscape where clean mountain air mingles with the ever-sparkling azure Mediterranean Sea below.
Community
You’ll find a warm welcome in this small community. The expansion of golf and luxury accommodation has made it particularly popular with the wealthy who mingle with locals and the arty crowd.
Properties
Benahavís has expanded considerably in recent years to become one of the most highly desirable locations in the region, especially amongst buyers looking for luxury real estate. Prices are on the higher side, however there is a wide range of properties available, ranging from luxury mansions to apartments in stylish developments and traditional terraced houses, all enjoying superb views of mountains and sea.
Amenities
There is some fierce competition on the Costa del Sol but golf lovers can enjoy some of the best courses in the region virtually on the doorstep. Affectionately known as the dining room of Andalucia due to the preponderance of restaurants, many of the establishments are gourmet standard, combining local delicacies, fresh fish or locally reared meat. You’ll also find a new supermarket in town.
Health
In addition to the excellent public healthcare centre and pharmacy, there are many private clinics located close by in the neighbouring towns of San Pedro de Alcantara, Marbella and Estepona.
Transport
The mountain location means a less frequent bus service but this is a friendly town and you will find that locals often make runs to the airport. There is also a dedicated taxi service that can take you to where you need to be.
Cost of Living
Benahavís gives you the chance of upscale living within reach of the beaches but without the hefty price tag of Marbella.
