El Madroñal – Costa del Sol’s best-kept secrets

La Reserva del Madronal, or simply El Madronal, is one of the Costa del Sol’s best-kept secrets. It’s on the Ronda Road in the district of Benahavis and perched 400 metres above sea level with spectacular views. El Madroñal lies on a vast plot of pine and cork forest adjacent to the ultra-exclusive La Zagaleta estate.

El Madroñal is a pine cork in residential area of private estates. It is very close to Marbella at around a 15min drive and to the coast at 10min. The estate is conveniently located at short driving distance to golf courses. Among them Los Arqueros Golf Course, La Quinta Golf and the golf courses of the Golf Valley. There is an abundance of recreational facilities in nearby Puerto Banus, the world famous marina, at a 15min drive.

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Spectacular views from El Madroñal

El Madroñal – Costa del Sol’s best-kept secrets

Marbella’s well known for attracting A-list celebrities and VIPs. Getting away from the paparazzi in the resort itself can be challenge. Nonetheless there is a place you can stay in complete privacy and still enjoy all that Marbella and Puerto Banus have to offer.

This peace is in an idyllic country retreat in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves. Yet it is just a short drive from Marbella and the coast. It might be close in distance but this tranquil refuge is a world away from the  glamour of Puerto Banus. Here, you’ll find yourself in the heart of typically Mediterranean landscape with the Mediterranean and Strait of Gibraltar stretching beneath you.

El Madronal gated development sits above the Guadaiza River valley on the mountain side forested with pines, cork oaks and aromatic shrubs. Carpetted in wild flowers in spring and in a riot of colour in autumn , it’s home to a long list of fauna – wild boars, deer and mountain goats – as well as numerous species of birds.

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Magnificent villas in El Madroñal

Attracting millionaires since 1950

This natural paradise rubs shoulders with neighbouring La Zagaleta, one of the richest postcodes in Spain, and has been earmarked by the rich and famous as somewhere to get away from prying eyes (and the cameras) since the 1950’s when the first millionaires built their exclusive retreats here. The development has been designed to provide space and privacy. Plots are at least 2,600 square metres so there’s plenty of scope for spacious houses and large gardens. All come with sweeping views  you can see the different peaks that make up the Rif Mountains in Morocco.

Luxury is key to describing homes in El Madronal. Alongside spacious living go sumptuous furnishings and fittings, infinity pools, manicured gardens, state of the art technology, staff accommodation and room for several cars. All within natural surroundings where the silence is only broken by birdsong.

High security on the complex translates into total privacy. Numerous high-profile politicians, executives and businesspeople have escaped from their daily grind here for a welcome break. And plenty of celebrities have taken holidays in El Madronal far from the long lenses of the paparazzi. But discretion is absolute so you never know who’s staying until they’re not there anymore – as fans of One Direction has just discovered.

Celebrity homes on the development include the estate belonging to the film star Madeleine Carroll, known as the ‘iceberg maiden’ and star of Hitchcock’s ’39 Steps’. Her magnificent El Madronal home was one of the first to build and she spent her retirement here. You can get a taste of a Hollywood retreat by renting the large country mansion, Hacienda Madronal 2.

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La Zagaleta – the wealthiest municipality in Andalucia

Located at 500 metres above sea level and just a gentle ten minute drive inland. Benahavis is also becoming renowned for its outdoor activities. The hilltop village is just under the Serranía de Ronda mountain range. It is the ideal backdrop for the new craze of adventurous exploring. Canyoning in the Guadalmina River, 4×4 jeep safaris, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking and hiking. There’s plenty to keep the thrill seekers occupied. For something slightly less adrenaline fuelled, cross Las Angosturas at the Tres Pergolas to join the Acequia hiking route – one of several starting near or within the village.

Benahavis is the wealthiest municipality (per capita) in Andalucía. It is al due to no small part, to it being home to the most luxurious urbanisations in Spain. They include El Madroñal, the Marbella Club Golf Resort and La Zagaleta Country Club.

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La Zagaleta urbanization

La Zagaleta

Families and individuals who prefer to live in big mansions set in large private grounds, surrounded with the beauty of protected nature, will probably search for a property in the community of La Zagaleta.

This area offers total peace, independence and security, combined with a stunning setting and luxurious facilities. Called “one of the most beautiful sites in Europe”, with certainly the best panoramic views to be enjoyed. It certainly ranks amongst the most exclusive and is chosen by people who are looking for quality and privacy.

With a history of famous owners including Henri Roussel (father of Cristina Onassis’ husband Thierry Roussell) and later controversial businessman and onetime world’s richest man, Adnan Khashoggi, La Zagaleta was originally a hunting estate until it was transformed into a 2,000 acre residential development by the current owners.

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Exclusive properties in Zagaleta

Exclusiveness all around you

It’s come a long way from the days when Khashoggi’s lavish parties were the talk of the town. His massive 5,100m2 villa transformed into the superb La Zagaleta clubhouse. It is open exclusively to residents and members who can access the various meeting rooms, restaurants, bar, café, BBQ, swimming pool, library, party pavilion, billiard room, bowling alley and pro-shop.

This private domain, covering 900 hectares of woods and green valleys, is in the heart of Benahavis hills. It is also just a few minutes’ drive from fabulous Puerto Banus and the beaches. This refined Country Club has got an equestrian center, an elegant Clubhouse with a restaurant, recreational, social and sports activities areas, a swimming pool with waiter service.

La Zagaleta’s stunning villas and magnificent estates located in a world class exclusive gated community with 24 hours security. Certainly the most impressive properties of Europe offer exceptional standards, design and quality. The mansions built on large plots boast spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea, European and African coast lines and the Rock of Gibraltar. Some of the luxurious houses are overlooking two excellent residents-only golf courses. The beautifully landscaped gardens also contain water features; there are tennis courts, large swimming pools, spacious patios, spa, big terraces with solariums, and special places for leisure activities. The houses have got wine cellars. It is hardly surprising that an area that offers nature, security and comfort of living has become such a preferred lifestyle destination.

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Holidays in Benahavis

Benahavís is at the heart of the Costa del Sol and receives more than 300 days of sunshine per year. A classic slice of Spain that’s accessible and welcoming? Benahavís is just 7km from Puerto Banús, less than an hour’s drive from Málaga airport.  It has a small population of British, Irish and Scandinavian expats that have integrated well. A destination that is both beautiful and peaceful? The road to Benahavis winds between sheer cliff face and clear drop down to the crisp and cool waters of the Guadalmina River.

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Benahavis entrance to the city

Holidays in Benahavis – a gastronomic pleasure

The surroundings are evidently inspirational, for Benahavís is home to a thriving community of artisans. In addition to the art galleries and craft shops, Benahavís boasts a brilliant portfolio of restaurants. From authentic pizzerias to classy haute cuisine establishments, robust grillhouses and the ubiquitous tapas tavernas. Dining out in Benahavís is a gastronomic pleasure. It is matched only by the visceral thrill of enjoying an al fresco meal under a star-studded sky in one of Europe’s most alluring of natural patios.

There are three distinct areas of Benahavís, each featuring its own charm and character. The newer outskirts contain a number of modern apartment complexes, sports facilities, hotels and parkland; this is where an increasing number of expats are moving into and making the most of the swift access to the coast. In the heart of town is the tourist trap area – well, not so much a trap as a magnet – where most of the bars, restaurants, jewellers and galleries are to be found. The third area of the town is the old residential area, where the local Spaniards live among the undulating terrain and twisting streets; an area characterised by beautifully kept villas and townhouses, charming gardens and gorgeous views.

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Active holidays in Benahavis

When there’s so much to see, so much can be missed. Driving – such a joy along the twisting mountain roads that typify 95% of inland Costa del Sol – should be shunned when in and around Benahavís. While going by foot through the steep, tight streets of the center of town is just good common sense, there’s a more spectacular reason to forego the wheels as you leave Benahavís and head towards the coast.

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Benahavis from the air

A mere 200 metres along the main road is an opening. Barely marked and steeply descending, one of the village’s hidden treasures lies some 30 metres below. Huge boulders, remnants from some ancient landslide or earthquake, lie strewn along the river bed at the foot of the Guadalmina River valley. Some boulders act as a dam, creating deep and crystal clear plunge pools, while others take the form of organic diving boards. So, don your swimsuit, leave those with a fear of heights guarding the towels on the grassy verge, and literally dive into the refreshing waters below. Such a simple pleasure, enjoyed by all, at absolutely no cost. It is a great way to wake up in the morning, wind down after school or work, or simply get a great all-over tan.

Having banished the sedate image of holidays in Benahavis with that one giant leap into the abyss, the surprises just keep on coming. Hikers will enjoy the 360-degree opportunities to traipse up or down; golfers will just love the four surrounding courses (including the Monte Mayor Golf Club) and kids can run free at the Amanhavís Hotel’s sports club or the nearby Selwo Safari Park.

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Golf courses in Benahavis

Night activities

As something of an open-air museum, back garden and dining room rolled into one, Benahavís at dusk and through the evening offers untold pleasures. The absence of a nightclub or loud bar ensures the atmosphere remains camped in the ‘contented’ sector. There residents and tourists of all ages instead turn their attentions to fine wine, great food and good company. Besides, who needs music when the orchestral clicking of thousands of hillside crickets creates an operatic backdrop to each evening?

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Competing with the crickets is the intermittent clinking of cutlery and glass, as hundreds of al fresco diners polish off their meals bathed in candle glow and suffused with a sense of relaxed well being. The laughter of children – energized by their parents’ relaxed mood and lax bedtime curfews. It all adds to the atmosphere, as professional waiters serve, weave, chat and joke with their clientele. It’s a classic scene of continental living. Who wouldn’t want to be part of it on your holidays in Benahavis?

Benahavis is one of those lovely towns in Spain that both visitors and residents find irresistible. And that’s no surprise: the town has amazing food. You can find the highest concentration of great restaurants here. These restaurants attract thousands of people, both visitors and residents.

Even though holidays in Benahavis is very popular, it remains rather unspoiled. The narrow streets, the lovely flowers, and the gorgeous white buildings breathe that great atmosphere that the area is known for. This is why purchasing a Benahavis property would be a very good idea. It would not only allow you to enjoy the town, but it would also make for a great investment.

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Stylish villa in Benahavis

Benahavís

This village on the Costa del Sol is characterised by its mountainous surroundings with rivers crossing the stunning valleys.  As a result it is easy to find a picturesque luxury home with beautiful views. Despite its inland location, Benahavis is just a short distance from the coast and beaches. The amazing position of some of the prestigious properties, for example those situated in the area of El Madroñal, ensures spectacular panoramas over the sea and countryside. The diversity of the surroundings attracts many international buyers who are also attracted by the exclusive properties which boast large private gardens and grounds. There are ten excellent golf courses, 5-star spas and sunshine for 320 days a year as well as a rich historical heritage, all of which make this a wonderful choice for those looking for a luxury home with spectacular scenery.

Villa in Benahavis
Benahavis

Where Marbella offers glamour and refinement, the area surrounding Benahavis has become the destination of choice for famous visitors, chosen by Michelle Obama for her trip to Andalucia, as well as the annual setting for charity events organised by stars like Antonio Banderas and Eva Longoria.

Marbella’s smaller sibling San Pedro is the main town serving the area, and provides a very down to earth alternative to Marbella that’s within easy striking distance. A lively little town full of Andalusian ambience, it serves the buzzing residential areas like Guadalmina and La Quinta, as well as villas in the luxury suburbs of Benahavis with exclusive addresses of Los Flamingos, El Madroñal, La Zagaleta, Los Arqueros and Atalaya.

Villa in Benahavis

This villa in Benahavis is located in the very exclusive neighbourhood of Puerto del Capitan, Benahavis. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, golf courses and views to the ocean, it is clear why the area is famous. There are several different plots of different size and orientation to choose from, when deciding on this marvellous villa in Benahavis. A striking design that uses the drama of the angle to create a unique villa to take advantage of this beautiful plot.

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Villa exterior from the air

Flooded with natural light, the internal spaces have a cool, contemporary chic with double height living areas to ensure an imposing ambiance. Distributed over 3 levels with a 1200 m2 plot the space is plentiful.

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Details

The ground floor comprises of a large living area with double height ceilings. It also features a beautiful working designer fireplace. This leads out onto a very large terrace with TV projector screen for entertainment. A smaller sitting room enjoying the same views over the swimming pool and down to the sea. There is also one bedroom and toilette. The living room leads to a lovely fully fitted and equipped modern kitchen, a breakfast bar and a full dining table.

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Villa interior

The upper floor is entirely for the master suite. It has a spacious dressing room and large bathroom with south facing Jacuzzi bath and huge window. An ample private terrace finishes off this level. The semi-basement level consists of additional 2 bedrooms with 1 bathroom. A second living room has dining area and fully fitted and equipped kitchen with breakfast bar. It also has natural light and private entrance to the gardens.

The property includes a covered car space for 2 cars. This villa in Benahavis is surrounded by terraced areas. It also has a beautiful family-sized swimming pool enjoying wonderful views to the coast.

The community is gated and set just behind San Pedro town with easy access to the highway. Set in a calm area of villas and family homes.

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