Discover the New River Promenade: The Transformation of the Arroyo de Benabolá in Marbella
Marbella continues to reinvent itself. With the recent completion of the redevelopment project of the Arroyo de Benabolá, the area between Nueva Andalucía and Puerto Banús has gained a stunning new green lung. For property owners and lovers of the Marbella lifestyle, this new walking route – the Senda Fluvial – offers a direct, natural connection that enhances both quality of life and the value of surrounding homes.A Sustainable Link between Nueva Andalucía and Puerto Banús
The project surrounding the Arroyo de Benabolá, recently completed by Marbella Town Hall, is far more than a cosmetic upgrade. With an investment of over €5.5 million, a 1.5-kilometre stretch has been transformed into a modern riverside promenade. The path runs from Avenida del Prado in Nueva Andalucía all the way to Puerto Banús.What was once a purely functional drainage channel has now become a landscaped highlight. The river promenade provides a safe and tranquil alternative to busy roads, allowing pedestrians and runners to travel through a green environment from inland areas to Puerto Banús.
Nature and Water Management Working Hand in Hand
The Arroyo de Benabolá is a true “rain-fed stream”. During the summer months, its lower section is often dry, but during periods of heavy rainfall it can carry a substantial volume of water. In the past, this occasionally led to flooding, with even the tunnel beneath the A7, one of the main access routes to Puerto Banús, partially flooding.Thanks to the new water management approach, the renovation of the tunnel and the elevation of the pedestrian path, such issues should now be a thing of the past. At the same time, the project respects the area’s unique ecology. In wetter years, when the stream flows for weeks at a time, the river mouth becomes a haven for wildlife. Water turtles and countless small fish are regularly spotted, and there have even been sightings of fish (such as salmonids) swimming upstream into the estuary.
The Journey of the Water: From the Mountains to the Sea
Although the new promenade focuses on the lower stretch of the Arroyo de Benabolá, the watercourse is intrinsically linked to the surrounding mountain landscape. It originates in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves, where water flows through a network of streams, including the neighbouring Arroyo del Ángel with its two distinctive reservoirs. The upper section, near the La Quinta area, is marked by the Embalse Nuevo, better known as the idyllic Lago de las Tortugas. After passing through the prestigious golf valley of Nueva Andalucía, including the Real Club de Golf Las Brisas, the stream continues through the beautifully redeveloped Benabolá section. Its journey ends as it flows into the Mediterranean Sea, right next to Benabolá Boulevard, part of the iconic marina of Puerto Banús.Key Features of the Arroyo de Benabolá Path
The new recreational area has been designed with careful attention to detail and infrastructure:- Improved Infrastructure: A new sewage system and a 60,000-litre stormwater buffer have been installed to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall.
- Natural Aesthetics: The path features a wooden pedestrian bridge, modern street lighting and comfortable urban furniture, including benches made from architectural concrete.
- New Green Areas: Thousands of square metres of vegetation have been pruned and replanted, enhancing biodiversity in this part of Marbella.
- Accessibility: Previously missing pavements have been added, significantly improving the connection between residential neighbourhoods and commercial areas.
Why This Matters for the Marbella Property Market
For property owners in Nueva Andalucía and Puerto Banús, the opening of the Arroyo de Benabolá path is excellent news. Infrastructure projects that improve walkability have historically had a positive impact on property values.Homes located next to this new park now benefit from:
- Direct access to recreation: Ideal for families with children and dog owners.
- Enhanced safety: Modern lighting and a clear separation between traffic and pedestrians.
- Future-proofing: Advanced water management systems protect surrounding villas and apartments from flooding.
Lifestyle: Walking in Marbella
Whether you are training for the Marbella 4Days Walking event or simply enjoying a relaxed Sunday stroll, the Benabolá Senda Fluvial is a valuable addition to daily life. The path seamlessly connects the tranquillity of residential areas with the vibrant luxury of the marina.About Costas & Casas
Are you looking for a property close to this new natural area? At Costas & Casas, we specialise in exclusive real estate in Marbella, Nueva Andalucía and Puerto Banús. With years of experience as buyer’s agents, we help you find the perfect investment in the best locations on the Costa del Sol.Explore our selection of properties near the Arroyo de Benabolá and experience the unique blend of nature and luxury.

The Walking Path Arroyo de Benabola in Marbella, by night

The roundabout of Nueva Andalucia near the walking path of Arroyo de Benabola

The walking path of the Arroyo de Benabola in Nueva Andalucia

The "Paseo Fluvial" Walking Path of the Arroyo de Benabola in Marbella

The Walking Path of the Arroyo de Benabola with the La Concha mountain in the backdrop

The Walking path of the Arroyo de Benabola, seen from the bridge near Puerto Banus

The Bridge over the Arroyo de Benabola near Puerto Banus

The Bridge over the Arroyo de Benabola and the improved Tunnel to Puerto Banus

Bridge over the Arroyo de Benabola and the tunnel of Puerto Banus

The Improved Walkway and Tunnel to Puerto Banus
Photos by Costas & Casas, December 2025
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