There are realms that are only accessible to those who hold the title of “multimillionaire.” These are earthly paradise exists in the province of Malaga: La Zagaleta.
Considered by many as the most expensive urbanization in Europe, La Zagaleta epitomizes the dream of those with wealth to spare. It encompasses exclusivity in residential offerings, unmatched privacy, top-tier services at your fingertips, and even a private Augusta Westland AW109 helicopter for work, leisure, gastronomy, sports, or personalized excursions. This resort is the realization of an ambitious endeavor that began 32 years ago when a forward-thinking family group embarked on a visionary journey, sculpting over 900 hectares of land in Benahavís into one of the largest and most renowned residential complexes in the world.
Far from the traditional development philosophy of the Costa del Sol, La Zagaleta stands as a testament to minimization of space reserved for residences. Over 250 homes grace its vast expanse, spanning from 3,000 to 10,000 square meters, with prices to match, ranging from €3 million to a staggering €45 million. The majority of properties fall within the €8 million range, offering a wide selection for those who aspire to become part of this exclusive community.
These parameters are a far cry from the original vision, which once contemplated constructing 3,000 homes. However, thanks to the vision of the late Enrique Pérez Flores, the ideologue behind the operation, that number was pruned to a mere 420. This low-density approach ensures that homes are nestled amidst lush vegetation, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean, Africa, Gibraltar, lakes, and two 18-hole golf courses.
The cornerstone of this project, from its inception, has been to provide the utmost privacy to its future residents. Among these privileged property owners are some of Europe’s corporate and financial elite, alongside an expansive development solely comprised of large single-family villas, with a notable absence of high-rise buildings or multifamily units.
Business Model
La Zagaleta’s business model offers the possibility to purchase land or pre-built villas tailored to the buyer’s specifications. The company also holds the majority of exclusive mandates in the secondary housing market. These villas undergo renovations to meet the highest market standards and are available starting from €3 million.
A Life Beyond Luxury Homes
While the focus often lies on the multi-million-euro villas, the reality for all residents at La Zagaleta is a wealth of additional services. One such service is the Members’ Club, boasting two restaurants, an equestrian center with 23 stables and four tracks, tennis courts, and a helipad. A standout privilege is the 24/7 helicopter shuttle service available to La Zagaleta property owners and club members. The Augusta Westland AW109 helicopter offers an 850 km range and can be used for business, leisure, culinary, sporting, or personalized excursions.
La Zagaleta is the place where residents find discretion and the highest level of security, including closed-circuit surveillance, security gates, and patrols.
Origin of Residents
The majority of La Zagaleta’s residents are high-ranking executives and successful professionals seeking an exclusive retreat with a low profile. They hail predominantly from the UK (28%), Germany (12%), Russia (13%), Switzerland, Denmark, and Northern Europe (18%), with 29% represented by Spaniards, Arabs, and other nationalities.
A notable shift has taken place in the last five years, primarily during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating a generational change. Young individuals, aged 35-40, professionally linked to technology, renewables, systems, energy, and innovation, have shown increasing interest in La Zagaleta. Their choice of property hinges on factors such as sporting and leisure offerings, a connection with nature, and environmental sensitivity. They seek homes with a minimum of four bedrooms (with some villas offering up to 8 rooms), spacious garages, and a natural setting for family enjoyment.
While there is much speculation about the identities of property owners in this urbanization, La Zagaleta openly acknowledges residents who have shared their affiliation. This exclusive enclave caters to a select few buyers, aligning well with the requirements stemming from the pandemic. It offers robust connectivity, safety, proximity to the beach, excellent private bilingual education, and accessibility to public and private healthcare facilities, complemented by a 24-hour personalized concierge service called “La Zagaleta Service.”
In conclusion, La Zagaleta represents an investment opportunity where exclusivity, privacy, luxury, and sustainable growth converge. For investors seeking to be part of the ever-evolving landscape of the Sun Coast, closely monitoring the developments at La Zagaleta.
