Digital Nomads Flock to Malaga’s Hidden Gem

Could a little town in Malaga be the next hotspot for digital nomads?

In the province of Malaga, 36 inland towns are actively seeking inhabitants to combat rural depopulation. To achieve this, the ‘Come Live in a Town’ platform was launched, showcasing towns across Spain eager for new residents. One standout is Benarraba, a quaint town in Malaga with a mere 450 residents, according to La Opinion de Malaga, Thursday, September 7.

A Town Rich In Tradition And Nature

Situated in the Genal Valley, Benarraba forms part of the Serrania de Ronda. The official Andalusian Tourism website states, ‘it is a town that “lives off forestry, agriculture and livestock and enjoys a well-deserved prestige in the artisanal production of products derived from pork.”‘ Its scenic location makes it a prime destination for tourists seeking a break from urban life, offering a tranquil retreat amidst chestnut trees, pines, cork oaks, and gall oaks.

Embracing The Digital Age

Now, to counter rural exodus, Benarraba is positioning itself as a haven for ‘digital nomads’. Over recent years, the town has significantly invested in technology and teleworking facilities. In 2021, they unveiled their ‘Digital Social Innovation Centre’, a dedicated coworking and teleworking hub. This centre, set in a refurbished 1789 house on Meson 10 Street, boasts a sprawling 520 square metres across three floors, all equipped with a fibre optic connection.

Affordable Living In Benarraba

Another big draw for Benarraba is its affordable housing, particularly appealing to the younger generation often struggling with property prices. According to ‘Come Live in a Town’, the average rent in the town hovers between €200 and €300. This is of particular interest considering that Malaga ranks among Spain’s cities with the steepest rents.

Finding a good place to stay in Benarraba is an important part of planning your trip. While there might be some nice places to stay right in the village, like simple guesthouses or bed and breakfasts, if you’re looking for something that feels more like home, you might need to look a bit further.

For those planning to stay in Malaga for a while, or for anyone who likes having the comforts of home when they travel, checking out Homelike could be a great idea. Homelike has lots of furnished apartments throughout Malaga. These apartments come with everything you need, making it easy to settle in and start exploring. Even though Homelike might not have listings right in Benarraba, it’s perfect for visitors who want a comfortable place to stay while they check out Malaga and its surrounding areas, including the lovely village of Benarraba.

In conclusion, with its rich history, natural beauty, and forward-thinking investments, Benarraba is poised to become a top destination for digital nomads in Malaga.