Benahavís is a scenic rustic municipality greatly admired for its gastronomy, natural attractions and excellent golfing credentials. With a resident population of just over 5,000, Benahavís has the highest proportion of golf courses per capita in Spain: 10 superb layouts harmoniously integrated into the hilly surroundings, plus a first-class golfing academy. The municipality extends from near the coast (bordering Marbella and Estepona, and with convenient proximity to other major beachside areas) high into the mountains as far as La Zagaleta, one of Europe’s most ultra-select residential estates. Popularly known as the “dining room of the Costa del Sol” due to its exquisite array of restaurants, tapas bars and cafés (as well as a Mediterranean Hispano-Arab culinary arts school), the tranquil village charm of Benahavís is encapsulated in its classic Andalucian “pueblo” houses, cobbled streets and verdant parkland. The municipality’s 10 courses include three at Villa Padierna (Flamingos, Tramores and Alferini), two at the La Zagaleta urbanisation (La Zagaleta and Los Barrancos), one of the two at Atalaya Golf & Country Club (the New Course – the Old is located in Estepona municipality), La Quinta, Los Arqueros, Marbella Club Golf Resort and El Higueral. In total, 180 holes for golf enthusiasts to enjoy. (There are short to medium-term plans to re-open Montemayor, which has been inactive for several years.)


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