Benahavis

Benahavís is a picturesque village located in the Andalusian province of Malaga, southern Spain. It is a charming town that has managed to preserve its traditional character, while at the same time embracing modern amenities and infrastructure. Benahavís is situated in the mountains, just a short drive away from the coast, and is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. The town has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike, including a rich history, excellent gastronomy, and an impressive real estate market. In this article, we will explore Benahavís and everything it has to offer.

 

History of Benahavis

Benahavís has a long and storied history that dates back to the Roman times. The town was a strategic location for the Romans, who built several watchtowers in the area to monitor the coast. During the Muslim occupation, Benahavís was a small agricultural village, which later became a strategic location for the Catholic Monarchs in their conquest of Granada. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Benahavís played a crucial role in the defense of the Spanish coast against pirates and other invaders. Today, the town is a popular destination for tourists and expats who are drawn to its rich history and traditional charm.

Military tower Banahvis
“Torre militar de Benahavís”

Population

The population of Benahavís is just over 7,000 people, with a mix of Spanish locals and international residents. The town has become increasingly popular with foreign investors and expats in recent years, who are drawn to its beautiful natural surroundings, excellent infrastructure, and high quality of life. The town has a vibrant community, with a range of cultural and social events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and food festivals.

Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Benahavís has seen a steady increase in demand in recent years. With its picturesque setting, luxury amenities, and convenient location, the town has become a popular choice for those looking to invest in a second home or permanent residence in Spain. Whether you are looking to buy a villa in Benahavís or a luxury apartment, there are plenty of options available in the local market.

One of the most popular residential areas in Benahavís is La Zagaleta. This exclusive, gated community is located on the hills above Benahavís and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean, as well as top-notch security and luxury amenities. Villas in La Zagaleta are some of the most expensive and prestigious properties in Spain, with prices ranging from several million to tens of millions of euros.

La Zagaleta

Other luxurious residential areas in Benahavís include Los Flamingos, a gated community located near the beach and home to several top-rated golf courses, and La Quinta, which offers a mix of luxury villas, apartments, and townhouses with easy access to golf, shopping, and dining.

For those looking for a more traditional Spanish experience, the town center of Benahavís is filled with charming, historic homes and apartments. These properties offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history and are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

When looking to buy a villa in Benahavís, it is important to work with a trusted partner like Villa Noble. As a leading real estate agency in the area, Villa Noble has a deep understanding of the local market and can help investors find the perfect property to suit their needs and budget. The agency offers a wide range of properties for sale in Benahavís, including luxury villas, apartments, and townhouses in some of the most sought-after residential areas in the town.

Overall, the real estate market in Benahavís is strong, with a range of properties available to suit all tastes and budgets. The town’s convenient location, stunning natural setting, and luxury amenities make it a popular choice for those looking to invest in a second home or permanent residence in Spain. With the help of a trusted partner like Villa Noble, buyers can navigate the local market and find the perfect property to suit their needs.

Activities & Gastronomy

Benahavís is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a haven for foodies. With a rich culinary tradition, the town is known for its gastronomic excellence, and visitors can expect a diverse range of dining experiences, from traditional Spanish cuisine to international dishes.

Benahavis Los Abanicos

One of the most popular culinary experiences in Benahavís is the “Ruta de la Gastronomía,” or the Gastronomy Route. This event, held annually, brings together local restaurants to showcase their signature dishes and provide visitors with a taste of the town’s unique flavours. From grilled meats to fresh seafood, visitors can indulge in the town’s culinary delights and immerse themselves in the local culture.

For those looking for a more traditional dining experience, the town center is home to a number of charming restaurants, offering authentic Spanish dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the oldest and most renowned restaurants in the town include La Escalera, Los Abanicos, and La Torre. These establishments have been serving up delicious meals to locals and visitors alike for decades and are a testament to the town’s culinary heritage.

La Escalera, located in the heart of the town, is housed in a traditional Andalusian building and offers a menu of classic Spanish dishes, including paella and fresh seafood. Los Abanicos, with its charming outdoor terrace, serves up a range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while La Torre, located in a restored 10th-century tower, offers a menu of creative and modern cuisine.

In addition to these classic restaurants, Benahavís is also home to a number of newer, innovative dining options, such as the Michelin-starred restaurant, El Lago. This contemporary establishment offers a menu of modern Spanish cuisine, with a focus on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Overall, the gastronomy scene in Benahavís is rich and diverse, with something to suit all tastes and budgets. From traditional Spanish cuisine to innovative, Michelin-starred fare, visitors can indulge in the town’s unique flavours and immerse themselves in its rich culinary heritage.

 

Beaches & Golf

While Benahavís is located in the mountains, it is just a short drive away from some of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol. The town is situated between the popular coastal destinations of Marbella and Estepona, both of which offer a wide range of beachfront activities and amenities.

Benahavis Golf

Marbella is famous for its luxury beach clubs, which offer visitors the opportunity to relax in style while enjoying stunning views of the Mediterranean. Estepona, on the other hand, is a more family-friendly destination, with a long stretch of sandy beach and a wide range of water sports and other activities available.

When it comes to golf, Benahavís is a golfer’s paradise. The town is situated in the heart of the Costa del Golf, which is home to over 70 golf courses. Some of the most prestigious courses in the area are located in or near Benahavís, including Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, La Quinta Golf & Country Club, and Atalaya Golf & Country Club. These courses offer challenging layouts and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Conclusion

Benahavís is a hidden gem on the Costa del Sol, offering a perfect combination of traditional charm and modern amenities. The town has a rich history, a vibrant community, and a stunning natural setting. The real estate market in Benahavís is strong, with a range of properties available to suit all tastes and budgets. Working with a trusted partner like Villa Noble can help investors navigate the local market and find the perfect property. Visitors to Benahavís can enjoy a wide range of activities, from hiking and golf to beach-going and gastronomy. Whether you are looking for a permanent residence or a vacation home, Benahavís is a great choice for those seeking an authentic Spanish lifestyle in a beautiful setting.

Article by Louis Wittner

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