Benahavís - A Hidden Jewel in Spain

Benahavís is a large municipality of around 150 km2, sitting a little inland at the western edge of the Costa del Sol. The region and has good connections nationally, internationally and locally. The concentration of upmarket resorts and five-star hotels, not to mention the excellent golf courses, has made this one of the richest parts of Spain, with its real estate much in demand. For investment purposes, it is well worth looking for a villa or apartment for sale here.

The small village of the same name nestles in a tranquil setting on the mountainside, five hundred metres above sea level. It has kept a traditional feel with its narrow winding streets, stone walls from the time of Arab rule, and the nearby ruins of the eleventh-century Moorish castle, Montemayor. Surrounded by an abundance of rivers, valleys, forests and mountains, it is part of the paradise that makes up the minicipality, providing space and seclusion.

Exclusive Los Flamingos is close to the sea but sits in a peaceful valley. Its excellent golf courses include the eighteen holes of championship-hosting Los Flamingos, constructed around a lake, and the views are stupendous. Its five-star Villa Padierna Hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World group, and the resort itself comes with access to all amenities, including a hospital. Various architectural designs include those typical of Andalucía.

La Alquería consists of community with 24h security and private homes in a green valley close to El Paraíso and Atalaya golf courses, and offers a great opportunity for those wishing to self-build, or searching for a brand-new villa for sale. With the lush vegetation of its individual gardens and its wide terraces, La Alquería has a truly Mediterranean feel to it.

Protected by Valley of Golf, La Quinta is a haven for both golfers and nature lovers, with lovely gardens where non-golfers can stroll. The elegant hotel sports a typically Spanish décor, and offers a Moorish-style spa, a fitness centre and extensive treatment facilities. A shuttle service transports visitors from La Quinta's laid-back atmosphere to the designer shops of Puerto Banús marina or the picturesque old town, about fifteen minutes away.

One of the most special urbanisations in Benahavis is the estate of Monte Mayor, which takes a mountain range for its backdrop, but faces fabulous views of the coast as far as North Africa. Set among brooks and tropical greenery, it remains largely unspoilt, and its low-density housing helps to maintain the space and privacy coveted by many owners. The area includes the charming old village of La Heredia de Montemayor. Here, houses with terracotta roofs overlook cobbled streets, which lead to atmospheric squares featuring fountains and a riot of colourful flowers.

The boutique establishment of Marbella Club Golf Resort has something for everyone. Its natural surroundings are perfect for lovers of nature, and are also ideal for exploring on horseback, and of course, for playing golf on a course designed by well-known golfer Dave Thomas. Tennis courts are also available. Visitors can enjoy fine dining in the clubhouse restaurant, while accommodation choices consist of a luxury hotel and twelve traditionally-designed villas.

Residential properties at the exclusive gated estate of La Zagaleta are some of the most exclusive in Spain, with rolling countryside and awe-inspiring views all around this former hunting ground. Amenities include two golf courses and a horse-riding centre, with the bright lights of the city or the luxury yachts of Puerto Banús within easy reach. Accommodation is in stunning villas with views to match.

Close to La Zagaleta and its golf courses, the urbanisation of El Madroñal consists of buildings with traditional finishes, providing tranquil country-living among cork trees and pines, with flora and fauna in abundance. It's not far from the amenities of the town below, and boasts outstanding panoramas over the azure waters of the Mediterranean, as far as Gibraltar and North Africa. Plots are also available, making El Madroñal ideal for investors in real estate.

Los Arqueros Golf and Country Club boasts a first-rate course designed by champion Seve Ballesteros, who has left golfers with plenty of challenges, such as water hazards and doglegged fairways. Communities around it offer breath-taking views over the greens to the sea from apartments, town houses and villas, with some built in the local style. If you're interested in finding an apartment for sale, Los Aqueros is a good place to start your search.

Benahavis is one of the most exclusive areas in Marbella, and the variety of its resorts means that all tastes are covered, whether you're an investor looking for prime real estate, or a buyer looking for a spacious apartment or a luxury villa for sale. The many top-quality golf courses attract players and spectators all year round, helping to keep the market buoyant, and encouraging more residents to settle here.