Geology

Benahavis boasts a prime location, nestled among the stunning mountains that lie between the Sierra Blanca near Estepona and the Ronda mountain range.

Just a few kilometers from both Marbella and Estepona, which border its territory, Benahavis is truly a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts seeking unspoiled landscapes.

From the heights of its mountains, you can enjoy breathtaking views that extend over 100 kilometers along the Costa del Sol and, on clear days, even catch sight of the African mountain range in the distance.

Three rivers cross the Benahavis territory, all of them have their sources in the Ronda mountain range and end up in the Mediterranean :
– Rio Guadalmina ( river of the mines ), 28 km long, runs along the eastern border of the village and was of stratigic defensive importance, also serving as a generator for the flour mills in the village.
– Rio Guadalmansa ( river of the oil mill ), running on the eastern side of the Benahavis territory from North to South.
– Rio Guadaiza ( river of Aixa, mother of Boabdil the younger ), 22 km long, on the left side of the Ronda From the village, you can sometimes see the snowcapped peaks of the Palmitera mountain ( 1517m above sea level ) in winter.

Plenty of granite, marble and peridotites form an important part of the geology in the territory of Benahavis.

Flora

On the mountain peaks, where precipitation and fog are common, large numbers of gall oaks and Spanish firs are to be found.

At lower altitudes the holm oak and cork oak thrive. There are also small collections of madronnos, chestnut trees, yews, maples and ashes.

Fauna

The area of the Sierra de las Nieves is home to one of Andalusia’s largest communities of mountain goat, one of only two wild species of large hoofed mammal native to the Park, the other being the deer.

Other species such as the stag and mountain ox have been brought in, the Park providing them with an excellent habitat.

Also to be found here are certain animal species protected by law, such as the wild cat, golden eagle and otter.

And without leaving the village, you can easily see some vultures flying over.