It also has an high percentage of resident expatriates who have found its situation and ambience irresistible.

The village has remained remarkably unspoiled, with winding narrow streets ill-suited to the motor car, and a picturesqueness which almost makes it seem like a specially-created film set.

The village stands 500 metres above sea level, 7 kilometres inland from A-7 coast road and the Guadalmina Golf Course, and is reached by driving alongside the River Guadalmina through the gorge up into the hills. It is a no through road so you will return the same way.  The municipal district extends behind the higher parts of east Estepona (Los Flamingos and Atalaya) and Marbella including the upmarket ‘Ronda road’ districts and La Quinta on the mountain side of the AP-7 motorway.

Its Moorish heritage is emphasised by the existence of the ruined 11th Century castle of Montemayor.  This ruined Arab stronghold sits on top of the distinctive mountain of the same name. Anyone wishing to make the climb to visit the ruins and experience the truly sensational views of the coastline should be prepared for a strenuous but rewarding effort.

Inevitably, Benahavís is growing quickly. On its outskirts new urbanisations are springing up like mould forming rapidly on an over-ripe peach.