Benamargosa is conveniently situated only 10 kilometres from the bustling town of Velez-Malaga and 46 kilometres from the provincial capital, Malaga. The town is 96 metres above sea level and has a population of about two thousand people. The Benamargosa river flows past the village nearby and the fertile river valley is planted with groves of subtropical fruit trees as well as the traditional olive, almond, orange and lemon trees and extensive areas of vineyards. It is a veritable green oasis set in arid countryside. As the name of the town indicates it was established by Arabs many centuries ago and similar to all the towns of the Axarquia region it is steeped in history.

The charm of the old part of the village is enhanced by flower bedecked doorways and windows and small shady plazas with bubbling fountains. This historic part of the village is the setting for the architectural jewel of Benamargosa, the Encarnación church, the construction of which was started in the 16th century. Recently, many of the village houses have been renovated in harmony with the old world charm of the town. Shops, banks, popular bars and restaurants cater for the needs of the small population.