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El Madroñal: A hidden luxurious yet relaxing oasis

Marbella is known for its luxury, glamour, and lively atmosphere, attracting both celebrities and those who want to experience the high life. But if you're seeking something quieter, more private, and still close to all the excitement, then look no further than El Madroñal. Nestled just above Marbella and Puerto Banus, El Madroñal offers an exclusive escape that combines luxury with the natural beauty of southern Spain.

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marbslifestyle Villa in El Madronal Benahavis
Villa in El Madronal Benahavis

Location: A scenic retreat in Benahavis

El Madroñal is located in the well organised municipality of Benahavis, sitting gracefully at the foot of the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. This gated country estate is more than just a place to live, it's an experience. It's the perfect place to unwind, El Madronal is surrounded by 223 acres of forest, and peacefully located in the mountains about 400 meters above sea level, Yet still only a short drive from the heart of Marbella(15min) and lively Puerto Banus(10min). Even more nearby places like La herdia (5min) and La Reserva(5min) are perfect to visit for a bite or drink on the terrace or do some grocery shopping. With also very highly rated schools like Laude San Pedro (10min) and San Jose(15min) International Schools nearby this is definitely a practical and family friendly location. The location also offers easy access to the AP-7/E15 toll road, making it simple to explore nearby cities like Malaga, Granada, Cordoba, and Seville. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, El Madroñal offers the perfect homebase.

Nature's masterpiece

The beauty of El Madroñal is hard to match. The estate is located above the Guadaiza River valley, surrounded by a forest of pines, cork oaks, and aromatic Mediterranean shrubs. The landscape changes with the seasons. Wildflowers fill the area with color and fragrance in spring, and in autumn, the valley becomes a sea of rich, warm colors. This peaceful setting is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boars, deer, mountain goats, and many bird species. Due to the high amount of wildlife in this area El Madronal used to be a private hunting estate for the Parlade family. For nature lovers, this is truly a paradise.

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El Madronal offers Safety, Privacy and Accessibility

Getting to El Madroñal couldn’t be easier. Located just a short drive from Malaga Airport, and also within reach of Gibraltar and Seville airports, it’s the ideal place to relax without being far from everything. Despite its accessibility, the estate is known for its high level of security, ensuring complete privacy for its residents. El Madroñal is a fully gated community, with access only available through one of the six secured checkpoints with a barrier. Plotsize’s of generally 10.000m2 + and just 150 plots in total on this huge area is also what sets El Madronal apart from many other urbanisations and of course results in even more privacy,  This makes it one of the most private and secure urbanizations in Marbella, and even in Spain, alongside the nearby La Zagaleta urbanization. Whether you’re a celebrity or simply someone seeking peace, El Madroñal is a safe haven where you can truly unwind without interruption.

El Madroñal: A family friendly area and nearby schools

El Madroñal is not only an idyllic retreat for those seeking peace and privacy, but it’s also a family-friendly destination that offers excellent educational opportunities nearby. Families residing in this exclusive community enjoy the convenience of being close to two highly regarded international schools making it an ideal place to raise children.

The Laudus San Pedro International School is just a short 10-minute drive away from El Madroñal, offering education to both local and international students. Known for its high academic standards and diverse curriculum, Laudus San Pedro is renowned for its bilingual programs in English and Spanish, preparing students for global success. The school is famous for its dedicated teachers, modern facilities, and emphasis on fostering a well-rounded education through activities such as sports, arts, and leadership development. It’s a well-established institution with a strong reputation, making it one of the top choices for families in the area.

Additionally, the San José School is also within easy reach, located just 15 minutes away from El Madroñal. This prestigious private school offers a comprehensive education, focusing on academic excellence, moral values, and personal development. With its warm, family-oriented environment and a track record of success, San José is highly regarded by local families and expats alike. The school’s close community and individualized attention ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive both academically and socially.

El Madroñal itself is a fantastic choice for families due to its serene atmosphere, many green spaces, and secure, gated environment. The large plots of land and quiet streets make it a safe and peaceful place for children to play and grow up, while still being close enough to Marbella’s amenities and activities. The surrounding nature, with its breathtaking views and outdoor spaces, also offers plenty of opportunities for family adventures, from hiking to exploring the local wildlife. Whether it’s the nearby top-notch schools or the family-friendly environment, El Madroñal is a perfect place for families to call home.

Celebrity connections and musical heritage

El Madroñal shares its exclusive neighborhood with La Zagaleta, one of Spain’s most prestigious and sought-after addresses. Benahavis, where the estate is located, is known as one of the top luxury areas in the region. Since the 1950s, El Madroñal has been a quiet retreat for the world’s elite, with luxurious homes that offer total privacy and incredible panoramic views. The homes here are more than just beautiful, they are a true statement of luxury living. Celebrities like Madeleine Carroll have found peace here, while musicians like Björk, Cher, and Mariah Carey have used the estate as a creative escape. The legendary El Cortijo recording studio, located within the estate, has inspired countless artists over the years. El Madroñal’s rich history and creative atmosphere have made it a favorite among those seeking both relaxation and inspiration.

Culinary delights and activities around El Madroñal

While El Madroñal offers peace and seclusion, it’s also surrounded by incredible dining and entertainment options. Whether you’re enjoying a fine dining experience at Coto, or exploring the many restaurants in Benahavis, San Pedro, and Puerto Banus, you’ll never be short of great food and atmosphere. For those looking for adventure beyond the estate, Marbella offers some of the best golf courses, sandy beaches, and a nightlife scene that rivals any other destination. So while El Madroñal feels like a secluded countryside retreat, it’s only minutes away from the vibrant energy of Marbella’s old town, the luxury of Puerto Banus, and the stunning coastline of Nueva Andalucia. The beauty of this location is its balance: El Madroñal offers a peaceful, private atmosphere, but with all the excitement and amenities of Marbella just a short drive away. You truly get the best of both worlds, a quiet escape without ever feeling too far from the action.

Conclusion: A slice of paradise

El Madroñal is more than just a luxurious urbanisation, it's a place to escape, recharge, and experience the best of what Marbella has to offer. The combination of privacy, nature, and luxury makes it one of the most exclusive locations in the region. Whether you're looking to rent a villa for a holiday or even buy a property in this stunning area, our team at Marbslifestyle.com is here to help you every step of the way. With our expert real estate team, we can guide you to find the perfect villa to suit your needs, making your dreams of living in this beautiful oasis a reality. El Madroñal is not just a place, it's a lifestyle, and we’d love to help you experience it. 

marbslifestyle Villa in El Madronal Benahavis
Villa in El Madronal Benahavis