Free walking tours in Benahavís and what to see

Must-sees

Benahavís is a white village a few kilometres from the coast of Marbella and Estepona, but already in the mountains, beside the Guadalmina river. Its centre is small and well kept, with whitewashed streets, flowerpots and quiet corners that contrast with the bustle of the coast. It is best known for the number of restaurants it has for its size, and many people come up from the coast just for lunch or dinner. Game stews, such as rabbit or partridge, play a big part in the local cooking.

The great natural attraction is the Angosturas del Guadalmina, a narrow rock gorge carved by the river right next to the village, with clear pools. For walking, a signposted path climbs to the ruins of Montemayor castle, from the Moorish period, with wide views over the coast. Several old watchtowers are also scattered around the municipality.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Benahavís, because you can see the village on your own in a short time. The best-known guided activity is canyoning in the Angosturas del Guadalmina, with jumps, abseils and stretches of swimming between rock walls, always with instructors and the right equipment. To see more villages in the area, day trips into the interior leave from Marbella.

How long to spend

Half a day is enough to stroll around the village and have lunch. If you go canyoning in the Guadalmina, keep a whole morning free and leave the afternoon for resting and dinner in the village. With one more day you can climb to Montemayor castle, best first thing or late in the afternoon to avoid the summer heat.

Where to stay

There are few places to stay in the village itself, mainly small hotels and apartments in the centre, which are the best option if you want peace. Around it, in the developments and golf courses of the municipality, there is more choice, although you will need a car. If you prefer the beach, San Pedro de Alcántara, Marbella and Estepona are about fifteen or twenty minutes away and have many more places to stay.