Private, gated and nature-led villa stays in one of Benahavís’ most tranquil hillside enclaves.
El Madroñal is one of the most private and appealing villa areas in Benahavís, chosen for its gated hillside setting, generous plots, and a more natural way of experiencing Marbella.
Surrounded by greenery and set above the coast, it offers a calmer, more residential alternative to busier parts of Marbella while keeping the Golden Mile, Puerto Banús, golf, and beaches within easy reach.
For Marbella Mountain Resorts, El Madroñal represents one of the clearest extensions of the privacy-led lifestyle that defines our brand. Like La Zagaleta, it offers space, security and elevation, but with a slightly more organic and understated atmosphere. It is especially attractive to families, longer-stay guests and international travellers looking for a villa setting that feels protected, discreet and deeply connected to the landscape.
Villa Sacromonte
10 GUESTS
950 m²
Villa Sacromonte is a modern luxury villa to rent in up in the hills of Marbella, within a gated community and sea views, 5 bedrooms and modern design.
BOOK NOW FROM 4500 €
FULL INFO 
Villa del Sol
14 GUESTS
1150 m²
Luxury villa to rent in La Zagaleta, Marbella, with panoramic sea views and 7 bedrooms.
BOOK NOW FROM 2500 €
FULL INFO LUXURY VILLA RENTALS IN EL MADROÑAL
Privacy, peace and panoramas
Golf clubs galore
El Madroñal is surrounded by golf courses, the closest being La Zagaleta’s 18-hole Old Course and the unconventional but spectacular New course (co-designed by renowned architects Steve Marnoch and Jonathan Gaunt). Further southwest is the challenging 18-hole course at Los Arqueros, designed by none other than Seve Ballesteros, while to the southeast there’s the 27-hole course at La Quinta (by Manuel Piñero). Then you’ve got the prestigious clubs in Marbella’s Nueva Andalucía neighbourhood, known as “Golf Valley”: Real Las Brisas and Los Naranjos (designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.), Aloha (designed by Javier Arana and Enrique Canales) and Europe’s first 24-hour course La Dama de Noche, with floodlights for those who fancy a round of nighttime golf. There are many more, of course: a total of 70 on the “Costa del Golf”. Many have been created by world-renowned players and golf architects, who have excelled in designing immaculate and challenging terrains which blend into the stunning Andalusian landscape. Along with premier clubhouses, fine dining and other first-class facilities, it’s not surprising that this region is a mecca for amateur and professional golfers alike.
COMMUNITY SETTING
Surrounded by nature with easy access to Marbella
A natural paradise
It’s not all about the golf and gastronomy here; El Madroñal is surrounded by beautiful countryside which draws nature lovers and outdoor activity enthusiasts alike. There are abundant marked trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders nearby and don’t forget that you’re in the foothills of one of Andalucía’s three national parks – Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves. One visit is just not enough to explore the park’s 300 square kilometres of natural beauty or discover its huge diversity of flora and fauna, including 1,500 plants and 2,000 hectares of Spanish fir – the largest concentration in the world. If you’re lucky, you may catch sight of a golden eagle, eagle owl or the several species of hawk that have made the park their home. For something really special, head north of El Madroñal past the village of Istán to set eyes on the Castaño Santo (Holy Chestnut), a chestnut tree thought to be between 800 and 1000 years old; its impressive dimensions – 30 metres in height and five metres in diameter – make for a truly wonderful sight.
Over towards Benahavís, there are more trails ranging from an easy wander to a challenging hike: a 3km circular walk along the Guadalmina river on the “dragonfly route”; the slightly more demanding Guadalmina canyon trails; or the 6.3km round-trip to the ruins of the 10th century Castillo de Montemayor. There’s something for all levels and preferences, but whichever you choose, the views are worth it! If you’re tempted to try out canyoning, head to the Torre Leonera park southeast of the village, where you’ll find Charca de las Mozas, a four metre deep natural pool in Cañón de las Angosturas, from which you can embark on the 1,100m-long river ‘walk’ through the narrow gorge walls to Charca de los Tubos.
LONG-TERM RENTALS
¿Looking for a luxury villa for long-term rent in El Madroñal?
We are a luxury hospitality and real estate company offering an unbeatable combination of luxury, privacy and discreet 7-star hotel service, tailored to satisfy your every need and comfort.
How can we help you?
Get in touch with us at Marbella Mountain Resorts and we’ll help you find the perfect luxury accommodation in El Madroñal. Or check out our other luxury villas for rent across Marbella. Let us wow you with our first-class hospitality service and trust us to curate unique and immersive local experiences for a holiday to remember!
Your remarkable El Madroñal journey starts here.
Contact us at:
Email: tourism@marbellamountainresorts.com
Phone: +34 609 18 46 46
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is El Madroñal?
El Madroñal is a gated hillside residential enclave in Benahavís, above Marbella, known for privacy, greenery and panoramic views.
What makes El Madroñal different from central Marbella?
El Madroñal offers a more private, natural and residential setting, with larger plots, more space between homes and a quieter atmosphere than Marbella’s busier coastal areas.
Is El Madroñal a good area for privacy and security?
Yes. El Madroñal is especially appealing to guests who value gated access, discretion and a more protected hillside environment near Marbella.
Are villas in El Madroñal suitable for families?
Yes. The area is particularly well-suited to families and multigenerational groups because of its space, calm setting, and residential character.
Can I rent a luxury villa in El Madroñal for an extended stay?
Yes. El Madroñal works especially well for longer stays thanks to its privacy, natural surroundings and easy access to Marbella and Benahavís.
Why choose Marbella Mountain Resorts for El Madroñal?
Because we specialise in private, gated and fully serviced luxury villa stays in Marbella’s most exclusive residential enclaves, including the most privacy-led parts of Benahavís.
