Jan 24th, 2024
Welcome to El Madroñal, an exquisite neighborhood located in the municipality of Benahavís. This article will guide you through the history and location of El Madroñal. It will then explore the benefits and amenities El Madroñal has to offer.
El Madroñal is not only a picturesque gem in Benahavís but also one of our favorite and most sought-after neighborhoods by our clients who are in search of a more peaceful, rustic, and private way of life. Its unique charm and tranquility sets it apart from the bustling city life.
Located within the lush natural surroundings of the region, El Madroñal boasts a rich history that dates back centuries. The area's name itself, "El Madroñal," is derived from the abundance of madrone trees that grace the landscape. These trees, with their distinctive evergreen leaves and vibrant red berries, contribute to the area's serene ambiance.
One of the most remarkable features of El Madroñal is its dedication to preserving its natural beauty and privacy. Many properties here are nestled among the rolling hills, ensuring that residents enjoy ample space and seclusion. This commitment to maintaining a rustic and private atmosphere has made El Madroñal a highly desirable destination for those who appreciate a serene and secluded lifestyle.
El Madroñal is an exclusive 24h security and gated community located in Benahavís, Costa del Sol, Spain, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil surroundings. This prestigious neighborhood is strategically positioned between the distinguished La Zagaleta and the charming La Heredia, along the scenic Ronda road.
Unlike Entrance 1, which enjoys a seamless connection to the picturesque village of La Heredia, the other entrances to El Madroñal are distinct and offer their own closed and private environments. Each entrance boasts a carefully planned layout, featuring a limited number of properties to ensure residents enjoy maximum privacy and space.
In each entrance, you'll find a select number of exquisite properties, each of them generously sized to offer ample living space and comfort. The properties typically range from spacious villas to luxurious estates, with plot sizes that can exceed 10,000 square meters. This ensures that residents can relish the serenity of their surroundings while enjoying all the comforts of a modern, upscale lifestyle.
El Madroñal's exceptional charm lies not only in its luxurious properties but also in its stunning panoramic views. From virtually every corner of this community, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the lush countryside and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Whether you're unwinding on your terrace, strolling through the meticulously landscaped gardens, or simply gazing out your window, the beauty of the surroundings is ever-present, creating a truly idyllic living experience.
El Madroñal is located 400 meters above sea level. It is perched on the foothills of Serranía de Ronda. The area stretches across 223 hectares of forests made up of pine and cork oak trees. The closest alternative to El Madroñal is La Zagaleta, across the road. Although La Zagaleta and El Madroñal have some differences, both possess impressive luxury villas, are located inland, and offer a tranquil, private, and secure lifestyle with impeccable views of the Mediterranean. La Zagaleta offers various community amenities such as a helicopter pad, golf courses, and an equestrian centre. El Madroñal does not match the extensive amenities found in La Zagaleta, making it a more straightforward and often more budget-friendly urbanisation. For a comprehensive look at La Zagaleta, we invite you to read our article dedicated to it. Read our article about La Zagaleta.
Other surrounding areas include La Heredia, La Reserva de Alcuzcuz and Las Colinas de Marbella. These offer the inhabitants of El Madroñal a selection of cafés, restaurants and activities to enjoy. El Madroñal's location offers tranquility and accessibility to the vibrant amenities and attractions of the Costa del Sol.
You can reach the prestigious marina of Puerto Banús and the lively city of Marbella by taking a short drive along the Ronda road. Alternatively, a five-minute drive takes you to the vibrant town of San Pedro de Alcántara. The toll road is perfect for those who want to explore more. It provides convenient access to Malaga, Estepona, and Gibraltar. El Madroñal is situated in the middle between Málaga Airport and Gibraltar Airport. This prime location allows residents to easily access both airports via the AP-7 freeway.
In addition to being close to the airports, residents of El Madroñal can easily connect to the rest of Spain and Europe via Málaga's high-speed rail network. The AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) connects Málaga to cities like Madrid in just over two hours.
The rich history of the area begins in the past century. In the early 20th century, the Parlade family owned the vast estate, which spanned over 1,500 hectares and encompassed La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, and La Reserva de Alcuzcuz. This era marked the inception of the estate's legacy.
As time progressed, the estate changed hands, reflecting the evolving landscape of the region. The wealthy French Roussel family acquired the estate, continuing its legacy for a time before eventually selling it. It was during their ownership that significant developments occurred in the area.
In a noteworthy transaction, the estate found its way into the possession of the Saudi billionaire Adnan Kashoggi. This marked a significant chapter in the estate's history, bringing with it the promise of transformation and development.
Eventually, the estate was strategically divided into the three distinctive residential areas we know today: La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, and La Reserva de Alcuzcuz. These subdivisions have since evolved into some of the most sought-after and prestigious residential communities on the Costa del Sol, each with its own unique character and allure.
The El Cortijo recording studio was once located in El Madroñal. It was a famous spot where well-known artists recorded songs and albums. Artists like Mariah Carey, Cher, Sade, Björk, and Roxette recorded there. The studio still exists in the villa that was recently sold for €4.7 million. The El Cortijo recording studio ceased operations in 2013 and has not recorded any official work since then.
El Madroñal villas are surrounded by rural terrain, which distinguishes them from neighbouring properties. This creates the illusion of being in the open countryside. The residences come in different sizes, shapes, and architectural styles. A common theme is expansive poolside patios with panoramic sea views. Many villas have special features like private tennis courts, spas, and gyms. Home cinemas and games rooms are also popular in these estates.
El Madroñal currently has around 150 villas, most of which are in a classic Andalusian style. They are situated on large plots, with an average size of 3,000 square meters. In recent years, constructing contemporary-style villas has become increasingly popular. Originally, the plots were at least 5,000 square meters in size. Now, the minimum size is 2,600 square meters, except in Entrance 1 where the plots are smaller. Entrance 1 is internally connected to La Heredia, the nearby residential area. La Heredia is a picturesque urbanization with chalets and townhouses. In La Heredia, there is a butcher's shop and a café within easy access for the El Madroñal residents.
What I love most about it is that, despite being in close proximity to the vibrant city of Marbella, once I'm here, I find complete serenity and feel as though I've entered a calm and secluded sanctuary surrounded by the beauty of nature yet so close to the beach. It's the perfect blend of urban convenience and natural tranquility, making El Madroñal the ideal place to have it all. The views that greet you each morning are simply breathtaking!
The price range for purchasing a property in El Madroñal is quite diverse, offering prospective buyers a range of options to fit their preferences and requirements. The cost of a property in El Madroñal can be influenced by various factors, including the type of property, its size, its specific location within the community, and the features it offers.
El Madroñal's properties encompass a wide spectrum, from spacious villas and elegant estates to more modest yet still luxurious residences. The diversity in property types ensures that there are options to cater to different lifestyles and budgets.
Property size plays a crucial role in determining its price within El Madroñal. Larger properties with expansive plots of land tend to command higher prices due to the increased space and privacy they offer. Those seeking more modest-sized homes can find options that are equally well-appointed but may be more budget-friendly.
Location within the community also influences property prices. Some properties in El Madroñal enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, while others are nestled in the tranquil embrace of the surrounding hills. Properties with premium views or those situated in more secluded settings often come with a higher price tag.
Furthermore, the features and amenities offered by a property can significantly affect its price. Luxurious amenities such as private pools, lush gardens, state-of-the-art security systems, and high-end finishes can contribute to a property's overall value.
Prices in El Madroñal start at just under €2,000,000 for a villa on a plot of around 2,000 square meters.
The maximum price for a villa currently stands at just under €8,000,000. To give you an idea, a modern-style 4-bedroom chalet on a 2,100 square meter plot is currently available on the market for €4,150,000. There is also a modern 6-bedroom chalet on a 2,600 square meter plot with 860 square meters built, for €5,950,000. The most expensive villa in El Madroñal is currently on the market for €7,995,000, set on a plot of 4,248 square meters. Prices will vary depending on the views, the topography of the land (which can be quite steep in certain areas), and the proximity to one of the entrances.
In El Madroñal, the availability of plots for sale sets it apart from many other areas in Marbella and Benahavís, where finding suitable land for building can be a challenge due to high demand and limited supply.
The average price per square meter for plots in El Madroñal hovers around €210, making it a competitive option for those looking to build their dream home in a prestigious community.
For those with more modest building aspirations, the smallest available plot in El Madroñal spans 2,750 square meters and comes with a price tag of €460,000. This option provides ample space for a comfortable residence while still allowing room for landscaping and personalization.
On the other end of the spectrum, the largest available plot in El Madroñal offers a generous 15,000 square meters of land and is priced at €2,995,000. This expansive plot presents an opportunity for creating a magnificent estate with extensive gardens, recreational facilities, or even potential development.
El Madroñal ensures that the community and its amenities are impeccably maintained. Community fees or annual membership fees cover this. The fee is usually between €50 to €400 a month depending on the size of the property. These fees contribute to the upkeep of communal areas. They also fund security services, road maintenance, and other shared amenities. This provides residents with a hassle-free and enjoyable living experience.
The area itself presents an enticing opportunity for property investors. El Madroñal's prestigious reputation and its stunning location in Benahavís make it an attractive destination for those seeking to capitalise on the ever-growing demand for high-quality residences in desirable locations.
We at Homerun Brokers firmly believe in the promising opportunities it offers. In fact, Homerun Developments, is currently spearheading an exciting renovation project in one of El Madroñal's prestigious villas within Entrance 3.
Our renovation project in El Madroñal Entrance 3 is truly exceptional, drawing inspiration from high-end luxury contemporary design while skillfully harmonizing with the natural elements of the surroundings. This project is a testament to our unwavering commitment to enhancing the allure of this already remarkable area. Collaborating with Archidome, a renowned architectural firm renowned for its expertise in cutting-edge design and innovative concepts, we've embarked on a journey to create a living space that seamlessly marries modernity with functionality. What sets this project apart is its ability to skillfully blur the lines between inside and outside spaces, allowing residents to fully embrace the beauty of the location. The strategic incorporation of arches adds an extra layer of harmony and tranquility to this exquisite setting, making it a one-of-a-kind oasis in El Madroñal.
I'm really excited about the 5-bedroom villa renovation project we're currently working on in El Madroñal Entrance 3 in collaboration with Archidome. While I can't reveal all the details just yet, I can share that this project will prominently feature beautiful arched elements, creating a truly unique and captivating living space. From an investment standpoint, I firmly believe in the promising prospects of El Madroñal. The limited number of properties available in this highly coveted community consistently leads to demand outpacing supply, resulting in impressive growth in property values over the years. It's undoubtedly a lucrative investment opportunity.
El Madroñal embraces the ideal family-oriented lifestyle, offering a serene and luxurious haven for residents of all ages. This remarkable community is purposefully designed to create a secure and tranquil environment where families can relish a high-quality lifestyle deeply connected to nature.
What truly distinguishes El Madroñal as an exceptional family-friendly locale is the abundant space that most villas provide, featuring expansive gardens that become natural playgrounds for children. Here, little ones can explore, play, and learn in the safety of their private outdoor haven. The proximity to nature not only ensures a constant connection to the great outdoors but also opens up a world of opportunities for outdoor activities, including breathtaking hikes and scenic bike rides, all within reach of your doorstep.
Furthermore, El Madroñal is the perfect setting for families who adore furry companions, as it's an ideal environment for dogs to thrive. The spacious properties and nearby nature trails make it a haven for pet owners and their four-legged friends. This blend of privacy, nature, and the luxury countryside lifestyle make El Madroñal an exceptional choice for families looking to create lasting memories in a truly idyllic setting.
There are no schools located in El Madroñal. However, the closest school and our top private school recommendation would be Laude San Pedro International College. It is a British coeducational school for children aged 2 to 18 following the British National Curriculum. It is a 10-15 minutes' drive away.
Another great and nearby option is El Colegio San José, a bilingual Spanish school for children up to 11 years old and is only a 13-15 minutes' drive away. The school offers comprehensive academic programs. These programs focus on excellence and personal development to equip students for success.
Read our article about the 7 best schools in Marbella.
El Madroñal is a very safe area. Access to El Madroñal is tightly monitored through six gated and camera-controlled entry points. Security guards are on duty 24/7 which ensures privacy and serenity all year round. These safety measures provide a private and secure lifestyle for the El Madroñal residents.
Nature & Wellness
Residents of El Madroñal enjoy a superior lifestyle with views towards the sea or the mountain reserves. Wellness is a significant aspect of life here. Many residents indulge in morning walks, hiking, and outdoor yoga sessions. The region has a temperate climate, allowing for outdoor activities all year-round. This makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Golf Courses
You will find Los Arqueros Golf Club within an eight to ten minutes' drive. It's an 18-hole par 71 course designed by the Spanish golfer Severiano Ballesteros. At around the same distance, you can reach La Quinta Golf Club, which features a 27-hole course and a golf academy.
Shopping Proximity
El Madroñal itself doesn’t have shopping centers. However, its proximity to San Pedro and Puerto Banús ensures that residents have easy access to both local markets and luxury shopping experiences.
Restaurants
Coto Restaurant is located across El Madroñal entrance 3. It offers a refined dining experience by a South African Chef. Coto is known for its elegant ambiance. It specializes in fine dining and is celebrated for its creative dishes crafted from premium ingredients. The menu spans a variety of options. It includes seafood, meats, and vegetarian selections. All are infused with local flavors. In addition to this, Coto offers a carefully curated wine list. It enhances the dining journey. This makes it a destination for those seeking a sophisticated culinary adventure.
The Alcuzcuz Restaurant embodies the essence of Mediterranean and Andalucian cuisine. It draws inspiration from traditional flavors. The emphasis is on top-quality produce. It is supported by on-site kitchen gardens and greenhouses for sustainable sourcing. The menu showcases a range of classic dishes rooted in the regional culinary culture. Chef Estrella Venture's approach focuses on simplicity and freshness. Her dishes prioritize genuine flavours. The dining options encompass indoor seating, a terrace with coastal views, and an Antique shop for added exploration. The restaurant collaborates with Little Sisters Delivery who offer takeout services and event catering. This provides versatile dining experiences for El Madroñal's residents.
El Madroñal presents the perfect balance between modern amenities and natural beauty. Its combination of rich history and community spirit, makes it one of the most sought-after residential areas on the Costa del Sol. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retirement, a family home, or an investment opportunity, El Madroñal promises a life of tranquility, luxury, and unparalleled beauty.
Contact us to help you find your dream El Madroñal property today!
Maria Malmström Marketing Coordinator
Maria was originally born in Sweden, but has been dividing her time between Sweden and Marbella for over a decade.
