Benahavís

Why visit Benahavís

Benahavís is a small white village tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Bermeja, just a few kilometres inland from the coast. It is famous for its restaurants, which give it the nickname of the Costa del Sol's dining room, and its municipality holds some of the region's most exclusive golf courses and residential estates. Benahavís suits food lovers, golfers and walkers looking for a quieter alternative to Marbella.

What to see and do in Benahavís

Stroll the village's streets and its main square, then walk to Las Angosturas, where the river Guadalmina runs through a narrow rocky gorge; in summer, canyoning trips explore it. The ruins of the Moorish castle of Montemayor sit on a hilltop with views over the coast. The surrounding hills have trails into the Sierra Bermeja. Golfers can choose from La Zagaleta, El Higueral, La Quinta, Los Arqueros and Villa Padierna. Marbella and Puerto Banús are 15 minutes away.

A day in Benahavís

Start with a morning walk to Las Angosturas, the narrow gorge of the river Guadalmina, or join a summer canyoning trip through it. Have a long lunch at one of the village's restaurants, then climb to the ruins of Montemayor castle for views over the coast to Africa. Golfers can spend the afternoon on one of the area's courses, and in the evening the village squares fill with diners.

Food and local life

The village's many restaurants range from traditional Andalusian cooking to international cuisine. Look for local game, lamb and seasonal dishes, and finish with a glass of sweet Málaga wine.

Around Benahavís

Benahavís is in the Costa del Sol comarca, in the hills behind Marbella and Estepona. San Pedro de Alcántara and Puerto Banús are 15 minutes away, the Sierra Bermeja and its pinsapo forests rise to the west, and the mountain road continues towards Ronda through some of the most dramatic scenery on the coast. Ojén and Istán are other white villages within easy reach. The village is also popular with birdwatchers, who look for eagles and vultures in the gorge. The village hosts a busy calendar of food events, and its restaurants are particularly popular for long Sunday lunches.

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Getting there and around

Benahavís is in the Costa del Sol comarca, about 50 minutes from Málaga airport by car. Buses link it with San Pedro de Alcántara and Marbella. A car is the easiest way to reach the golf courses and walks.