The trails in Benahavis vary considerably: you can choose an easy circular hike, take a walk along the Sendero de las Libélulas del Guadalmina, or follow a route to a fortress. There is also the Guadalmina, flowing between limestone walls, the old town and an annual event held in October. Which of these aspects you focus on depends on whether you are looking for nature, history, views or an evening of food and drink.
Hiking trails with different highlights
The Sendero de las Acequias is described as an easy circular hike suitable for the whole family. The route crosses a wooden bridge through the Cañón de las Angosturas. It therefore combines a clear circular route with a distinctive stretch through the canyon; both details help distinguish this hike from the other local routes.
The Sendero de las Libélulas del Guadalmina is a pleasant walking trail for people with an average level of fitness, provided they have no mobility limitations. A lime kiln along the way bears witness to times gone by. Those interested in nature and historical traces will find both here as part of a walk, without needing to travel to a more distant destination.
The route to Castillo de Montemayor offers a different experience: it starts in the centre of Benahavis and leads to a fortress. From there, you can see up to 100 kilometres of coastline, as well as the African coast; visibility depends on the weather. The route to the fortress therefore offers a specific destination and a view, whereas the other two routes are described as a circular hike and a walk, respectively.
When choosing, it is worth bearing in mind that the requirements for each route are not the same: the Sendero de las Acequias is described as easy and suitable for families. The Sendero de las Libélulas requires an average level of fitness and no mobility limitations. The route to Castillo focuses instead on the fortress and the weather-dependent distant views. Check local trail conditions before setting out on a hike.
The Guadalmina and the landscape
Below Benahavis, the Guadalmina runs through the Las Angosturas area between limestone walls. This landscape can be considered another point of interest for the trip, alongside the individual trail destinations. The Sendero de las Acequias also passes through the Cañón de las Angosturas, crossing a wooden bridge along the way.
Dragonflies are among the area's natural attractions: 32 of the 54 dragonfly species known in Málaga province can be found in Benahavis. These figures refer to the town and the province; they offer a concrete indication of the area's natural appeal without promising that you will spot dragonflies on any particular route.
Historic traces and an annual October celebration
The history of water use along the Guadalmina goes back more than ten centuries. At the time, Arab communities diverted some of the river's water to irrigate their gardens and farms. The Torre de la Leonera is another reminder of Benahavis's cultural history: the tower is listed as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC).[ [H_0022]]
Every year on 7 October, the RomerĂa in honour of the Virgen del Rosario takes place. In Benahavis, it leads to the Charco de las Mozas, where a Eucharistic celebration is held in an ermita. If you would like to include the celebration in your travel plans, time your visit to coincide with this date and check the specific event details in advance.
The old town, food and other interests
A stroll through the old town can also be combined with dinner: visitors can eat on a restaurant terrace and try tapas with beer or wine. This is a different way to spend your time than going for a hike or taking an excursion to the fortress, and it makes a good standalone item on your itinerary.
For golf enthusiasts, the municipal golf academy is next to the town centre and adjacent to the four-star Gran Hotel BenahavĂs. The practice areas mentioned include a driving range, a large bunker, an approach area and a putting green. As facilities may change, check the current practice facilities before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Villanueva De La ConcepciĂłn, Caleta De VĂ©lez, Alfarnatejo, Casabermeja, Benamargosa, Villanueva De Tapia, AlgatocĂn, La Cimada.
For the main travel overview: Málaga.
