Locals affectionately refer to this peaceful, white-washed, abundantly flowered, cobbled-stone town as the Old Village or Old Town. Many Spaniards call the area Rancho Domingo. Benalmádena Pueblo is one of Spain's least populated and newer towns, only re-established in the 1950s after years of destruction. This hidden gem is situated between Mijas and the sea and sits just above Arroyo de la Miel. It is a short bus or car ride from the renowned and overly touristic Benalmádena Costa.
The vibrant mountainous pueblo, standing 280 meters above the tranquil Mediterranean Sea, is a testament to its rich history. Founded by the Arabs approximately 20,000 years ago, the area’s original Arabic name, Ben Al Madina, loosely translates to ‘children of the mines, ’ a nod to the region's former iron ore mining. This historical significance adds a layer of depth to your visit, connecting you to the town's past.
The pueblo’s warm Mediterranean climate makes it incredibly inviting during winter. The cool, refreshing mountain breeze offers relief during summer heat waves. The mild weather makes Benalmadena Pueblo perfect for a peaceful, historical, or adventure-filled holiday.
Exploring the town would take more than a day trip. Enjoy meandering mindfully through Benalmadena’s winding, car-wide streets, which feature groves, bright white buildings, and traditional architecture. Then enjoy the many landmarks this town has on offer.
Begin your day with a coffee or orange juice at the central Plaza de España. A typical historic Andalusian town square, with sporadic fruitful orange trees and the fountain of La Niña de Benalmadena. The fountain presents a bronze statue of an innocent little girl holding a shell as an offering of water to all visitors. It was designed by Jaime Pimentel to represent the ‘friendship and fellowship of the cosmopolitan community.’
Before fully immersing yourself in this town's mindful, meditative ambience, you could enjoy browsing local craft and other shops. In contrast, you may wish to rest and indulge in the ice cream parlour or the pub with a glass of local wine.
Destress with a gentle walk down the cobbled town to the peaceful, meditative viewing area of the Jardines del Muro. Enjoy the quiet vistas, read a book, or chat on a comfortable bench. In the 11th century, the Moors built a fortress and a wall surrounding the village, which is beautifully evident as you tune your ear to the church bells sound from the steepling Santo Domingo de Guzmán, which dates back to the XVII century.
A twenty-minute walk or a one-stop bus ride will take you to another spectacular panoramic viewing point as land sweeps into the sea. This area includes the Parque Rustico de Retamar, the Buddhist temple, and the Butterfly Park. It is ideal for anyone interested in meditation, relaxation, and unplugging from the real world.
Parque Rustico de Retamar is Spain’s best kept secret. This magnificent park combines wild trees, rough vegetation, the most spiritual Catholic grotto, and large buildings housing the station of the Cross. At Easter, the locals reenact the Passion of Christ,’ and the experience will move you beyond words. The area is ‘the most tranquil location in Europe,’ according to the founder of the ideal site for the Buddhist Stupa above it, which opened in 2003.
The Benalmádena Stupa is the largest Buddhist temple in the Western world. It is a must-visit for everyone. Admission is free, and the guides love answering questions. Times are irregular, so check Google. The temple closes early on Sunday to accommodate a lovely meditation group (in Spanish and English). Donations are welcome to maintain the building, and the shop has terrific gifts for mindfulness, meditation, and memories.
Opposite the Stupa is the Mariposario de Benalmadena, or Butterfly Park. This is the largest of its kind in Europe. It is a tropical home to nearly 1,600 butterflies from around the globe. The added array of caterpillars, birds, tortoises, and a wallaby makes the visit hugely educational and colourful. The air conditioning is a blessing during Spain's heat waves, and the café provides refreshments.
Below the old town is the magnificent Castillo Monumento Colomares. This massive castle-style monument, dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America, stands out spectacularly and cannot be missed when driving or walking down the mountain on the South road. There is a small payment, and the monument is very well-kept. There is also a café for light refreshments.
Return to the main town early in the evening as the few restaurants fill up quickly. Sample tapas or indulge in one of the gourmet treats on offer. Wine and cava flow freely in the Pueblo.
For the more adventurous, Benalmádena Pueblo is also a fantastic starting point for hiking into the breathtaking mountains of the Costa del Sol. There are many local caves (Cuerva del Toro, Cuerva del Botijo, and Cuerva de la Zorrera) to visit and mountain climbing for the more daring. Sports facilities are prominent, with expensive purpose-built venues for badminton, hockey and soccer.
The town is wholly adapted to allow less-able walkers or people with disabilities to move around, ensuring everyone feels welcomed and included. For example, a lift is available to travel between the lower and upper levels, and the regular bus lowers to the pavements to allow buggies or wheelchairs to access it, making it a genuinely accessible destination for all visitors.
Tips:
· Get your travel card from any Tobacconist in Arroyo or on the Costa for very cheap bus rides.
· Airport links are cheap by train to Arroyo de la Meil and bus (for less than €10 without the travel card). A Taxi would charge €44 to €54.
· Restaurants fill up fast, and most do not take reservations, so arrive early or go hungry.
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