This municipality in the province of Malaga is situated 7 km away from the coast between Marbella, Estepona and Ronda, and is characterised by its great amount of bars and restaurants; it’s also one of the typical Andalusian whitewashed villages with a long and interesting history, from where one can enjoy some spectacular views over the whole Costa del Sol. Benahavis is also an ideal tourist destination for those who enjoy playing golf.
As far as we know, Benahavis was founded under Arabic dominion and its name may have come from the Berber tribe, known as Banu Habis or from the name “Ben” meaning 'son' and 'Havis' which was the name of an Arab who reigned in the Montemayor castle.
The Montemayor castle had already been built in the 10th century and was the 'nerve centre' of numerous battles that took place in the kingdoms of the Taifas that saw in the castle an important strategic point from where one could see over 100 km of Spanish coast and part of the African coast.
After the Reconquista of Ronda by the Christian army, they decided to head south and conquer Marbella, and in the year 1485 they ended up surrendering signing the recapitulations in the so-called Humilladero cross where Fernando received the keys of the city from the mayor of the fortress, as well as full control over Benahavis and the Montemayor castle amongst other nearby municipalities.
The majority of the municipality of Benahavis is forest and the urbanisations occupy a minimum part of a natural scenery with areas like “Las Angosturas”, declared Monument of natural interest, not in vain, it’s located in the Ronda Mountains.
If you visit Marbella or Benahavis, don’t forget to visit the following places we personally recommend:
Castillo de Montemayor
Torre Leoneras
Torre Daidín
Torre Campanillas
Torre Tramores
Torre Esteril
You can also enjoy Benahavis’ culinary offer, with typical dishes of a mountain village near the coast where they include a wide variety of meats: suckling pig, rabbit, venison or veal; as well as fish dishes like the ‘fish and shellfish zarzuela’, sole and other exquisite recipes. Other recommended dishes that you can order in any of the restaurants available are: chorizo (spicy Spanish sausage), oxtail, T-bone steaks and veal sirloin steaks.
If you’re going by car, it’s almost an hour drive from Malaga airport to Benahavis (approx. 70 Km.). We recommend to check out our offers and discounts for car hire in Malaga if you arrive by plane, train or via Malaga’s seaport.
On the map here below you can see the recommended route to get to Benahavis.
Town council: Pza/ El Pilar - 29679.
Phone: +34 952 85 60 90
Official website: Benahavis Town Hall.
Credit cards accepted
