In the heart of the Serranía de Ronda lies the small town of Benadalid. With just over 200 inhabitants, this municipality nestled in the Valle del Genal is one of those magical and tranquil places worth discovering and enjoying.
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History of Benadalid
There were already signs of Benadalid during Roman times, evidenced by the characteristics of a small fortress on the outskirts of the town. There is also a road linking it to the Roman site of Lacipo in Casares.
During the Muslim period, both the town and the fortress changed hands from its conquest in 711 by Zayde Ibn Kesadi, later part of the kingdom of Málaga and Sevilla, and then Granada with other castles like Setenil, Ronda, and even Estepona. Ultimately, during the Reconquista, it came into the hands of the Marquis of Cádiz in 1485.
Other significant historical moments include the construction of the Church of Benadalid, whose patron is Saint Isidore, in 1505. It suffered damage during the French invasion in the 19th century, and during the Spanish Civil War, all its religious images and archives were destroyed.
Things to See and Do in Benadalid
Despite its small size, Benadalid offers monuments to visit and trails to explore due to its rich history and enviable location.
What to See in Benadalid
Arab Castle
The Arab castle, with Roman foundations, was reconstructed by the Count of Feria in the 17th century. Its current state is good, serving as a cemetery. It has three towers; the fourth collapsed and was not rebuilt. There are minor improvements made over time.
A part from the urban area, there is an old Arab castle, rebuilt in the 17th century by the Count of Feria, now used as a cemetery.
Cross of Humilladero
This large cross made of limestone was constructed in 1776 and its history is quite interesting, giving rise to a common surname in the town: “Fernández”. The cross was carved by two Portuguese brothers with this surname who arrived to work on the church’s extension. After completing their work, they settled in Benadalid, married, and established families, thus becoming the origin of the surname in the town.
Parish Church of Saint Isidore
The church we can enjoy today in the Plaza Bení Al Jalí of Benadalid is not the original built in 1505. After several remodelings, the current one dates from the 18th century. This is when two Baroque entry portals were added. The belfry and clock tower are the most striking features of the church.
Roman Fountain and Old Washhouses
The Roman fountain provides drinking water for the entire town and features an exterior trough with three basins and a washhouse.
The washhouse, with five basins, was built in 1960 and is a public facility with its own heater. Apart from being well-preserved with wooden beams, it has a viewpoint with fantastic views of both Benadalid and the Valle del Genal.
Nature and Hiking in Benadalid
The excellent location of Benadalid, amidst the natural beauty of the Valle del Genal, is one of the town’s main attractions. The Peñón of Benadalid, over a thousand meters high, limestone cliffs, changes in vegetation, abundance of chestnut, oak, pine, and cork trees make the town a true delight for all its visitors.
Circular Hiking Route Benadalid-Benalauría-Benadalid
This circular route is ideal for those just starting in hiking or for experts wanting a moderate-demand trail. Covering just over ten kilometers in about four and a half hours, the trail begins along the Camino de la Cruz, leading to the fantastic Mirador de la Cruz with beautiful views of Benadalid and the Valle del Genal. It continues towards Benalauría by the PR A-236 flanked by almond, cherry, and oak trees, among others.
One of the best sections of the route is from Fuentecilla, as for over two and a half kilometers, we can enjoy the famous Copper Forest of Chestnut Trees, so named for its characteristic golden tones in autumn.
After four kilometers, the chestnut trees give way to pine and cork trees, and on the right-hand side, the neighboring town of Benalauría becomes visible. After crossing, we head left to descend along the path to Arroyo de las Veguelas with its distinctive poplars. After crossing the stream, we tackle the “Cuesta del Quemaíllo” and reach Benalauría.
After traversing the town from north to south, passing by the Church of Santo Domingo, Pasaje del Maestro Francisco Castillo, the Town Hall Square, to reach the Fountain and Washhouse of La Alberca from where we exit the town. At this point, we head back to Arroyo de las Veguellas via the Camino de los Arroyos.
At the bridge, the Camino de Benadalid begins, with its highest point at a junction, about 700 meters, and we walk until reaching the Camino de Las Laeras. Here, we can enjoy views of the Alto Genal, Alpandeire, Faraján, and the Serranía de Ronda. Very close by is our goal; the return to Benadalid.
Local Festivals and Gastronomy of Benadalid
Saint Isidore’s Fair
Every April 26th, or the nearest weekend, this fair in honor of the patron saint of Benadalid is celebrated. It is a lively festivity that begins with a mass and procession of Saint Isidore, followed by appetizers, music, and dancing in the town square.
Patron Saints’ Festivities of Saint Isidore
The major festival of Benadalid, taking place on the last weekend of August, features the famous Moros y Cristianos reenactment. If you visit Benadalid during this time, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, the best of local cuisine, and plenty of music, dancing, and festivities.
Assumption Day
On August 15th, known as the fair of August, the mayordomos invite those passing by the town to enjoy the festivities.
Corpus Christi
The highlight of the Corpus Christi procession is the impressive floral decoration done by the town, creating a stunning visual delight for all five senses.
Gastronomy in Benadalid
When visiting Benadalid, do not leave the town without trying vinegar soup, warm gazpacho, fennel with vegetables, and Moorish stew. For dessert, try canes with honey, rice pudding, and borrachuelos.
How to Get to Benadalid
By Public Transport
From Málaga Airport, the best option is to take a bus to Estepona. The journey takes a little over an hour, with buses departing every two hours towards this coastal city.
Once there, the only means to reach Benadalid is by taxi. The journey takes another hour, with costs ranging between 100 and 150 euros.
By Car
Once you reach the Costa del Sol, it’s recommended to hire a car at Málaga Airport. It’s the most convenient way to move between the numerous points of interest in the province, such as the town of Benadalid.
To get here, head towards San Pedro de Alcántara, towards Marbella, using the AP-7, a well-maintained highway with heavy traffic, or the old N-340 road. Once in San Pedro de Alcántara, take the turn towards Ronda via the A-376 and before reaching, turn off at the A-369 after passing Atajate towards our destination, Benadalid.
Map of Benadalid
To ensure you don’t get lost on your way to Benadalid and that you make the most of your trip to the town, take a look at this map with the most important information.
