LA ZAGALETA
La Zagaleta, a secluded and prestigious gated community in Europe, epitomizes the pinnacle of Marbella’s luxury lifestyle. Originating in 1991 as a private hunting estate spanning 900 hectares of protected woodlands and green valleys, La Zagaleta has evolved into a haven of exclusivity. Currently, with 230 properties within its gates and the potential for 190 more, La Zagaleta offers a unique blend of independence, privacy, and tranquility in a captivating setting. Residents enjoy access to 50 km of internal roads, two golf courses, two clubhouses, an equestrian center, a tennis club, and a concierge service, along with a private helipad for convenient arrivals. Beyond being a place, La Zagaleta has transformed into a lifestyle.
Located in Benahavis, La Zagaleta is close to Marbella, with Marbella center 20 km away, Puerto Banus 12 km away, and San Pedro de Alcantara less than 10 minutes by car. Estepona, the neighboring town, is within a 30-minute drive. Accessible via the A-397 towards Ronda, La Zagaleta has two entrances: the Southern entrance, exclusive to residents, and the Northern entrance, the main entry point for residents, visitors, and workers.
THE HISTORY OF LA ZAGALETA
In 1990, Enrique Perez Flores and investors acquired a 900-hectare plot in Benahavis, previously owned by Saudi multi-millionaire Adnan Khashoggi as La Baraka, his private hunting estate. Perez envisioned creating a private estate nestled in nature with 420 homes within the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda. Construction commenced in 1992, including the development of the first golf course and internal roads, with the old clubhouse inaugurated in 1994.
Originally part of the land owned by French multi-millionaire Thierry Roussel, La Zagaleta, along with El Madroñal and La Reserva de Alcuzcuz, became a separate entity when Khashoggi acquired the northern zone, naming it La Baraka. In 1991, investors led by Enrique Perez Flores acquired Khashoggi’s property, renaming it La Zagaleta. The old house became the clubhouse, marking the beginning of the gated community on 900 hectares of land.
Located in Benahavis, La Zagaleta is close to Marbella, with Marbella center 20 km away, Puerto Banus 12 km away, and San Pedro de Alcantara less than 10 minutes by car. Estepona, the neighboring town, is within a 30-minute drive. Accessible via the A-397 towards Ronda, La Zagaleta has two entrances: the Southern entrance, exclusive to residents, and the Northern entrance, the main entry point for residents, visitors, and workers.
OWNERS OF LA ZAGALETA
The Zagaleta Group, governed by its holding company, owns and operates various brands. The land was initially owned by Thierry Roussel, later purchased by Adnan Khashoggi, and founded by Enrique Perez Flores. The current CEO is Jacobo Cestino, and the Executive Chairman is Ignacio Perez Diaz, son of Enrique Perez Flores.
SECTORING OF LA ZAGALETA
Access Points:
Reaching La Zagaleta involves two primary entry points – the South Entrance and the North Entrance. The former, situated on the western side of the Ronda road, is closest to Costa del Sol’s beaches and is just above neighboring urbanizations like La Heredia and Entrance 1 of El Madroñal. The latter, four kilometers further up the Ronda Road, serves as the main entry for residents, visitors, and tradespeople. Talks are underway about a potential third entry point for sectors I and J in the northern limit.
Air Travel:
For those arriving by air, Málaga-Costa del Sol International Airport stands 70 kilometers away, approximately a 45-minute drive via the AP-7 toll highway. Alternatively, Gibraltar International Airport is a bit farther, with the journey typically taking an hour. Residents also have the option to use La Zagaleta’s helipad for convenient helicopter travel.
VARIED AREAS
Sector Division
La Zagaleta’s expanse is divided into ten sectors, each protected by nature reserves and offering 420 building plots, each with a minimum size of 3,000m². Sectors A1 to A2, B, C1, C2, and D are strategically located for stunning Mediterranean views. Sectors E, F1, and F2, positioned higher up, overlook Benahavís village and western hills, some boasting excellent sea views. Sectors G and H, near the North Entrance, provide easy access to the Ronda road and feature panoramic Mediterranean and mountain views. The newest sectors, I and J, are in the northernmost area of the estate.
Property Options
La Zagaleta offers a diverse range of real estate, from large plots for new home construction to turnkey projects, resale villas, and brand-new mansions. Properties often feature palatial living spaces, ranging from 1,000m² to 3,000m², with luxury amenities like lifts, spas, gyms, cinemas, and expansive pools. Prices vary, with land starting from 1.5 million euros, resale villas from three million euros, and new-build properties exceeding 30 million euros.
LA ZAGALETA COUNTRY CLUB
Membership Overview
La Zagaleta Country Club membership provides residents and a limited number of non-residents exclusive access to luxurious amenities. Four membership types cater to various interests, all operating on a family basis. Membership requires a one-off initial payment and annual fees. Members enjoy unlimited access to golf courses, practice areas, the racquet club, equestrian center, and clubhouses.
Golfing Glory
La Zagaleta boasts two championship golf courses: the ‘old course’ designed in 1991, renovated in 2016, and the ‘new course’ carved out of rugged terrain. Both offer stunning views and are mainly for resident members, with limited external membership options. The ‘old course’ spans 6,000 yards, while the ‘new course’ presents technical challenges over 4,300 to 5,300 yards.
SAFETY, SOCIAL LIFE AND FAMILY
Security and Privacy
La Zagaleta prioritizes residents’ safety and privacy with 24-hour security systems, trained personnel, and gated entrances at the South and North Entrances. Access is restricted to residents and guests.
Social and Family Life
Members of the La Zagaleta Country Club enjoy socializing at the Old Clubhouse, featuring swimming pools, a golf pro shop, a gourmet shop, a fine-dining restaurant, and a casual bar. The New Clubhouse, added recently, offers a lakeside terrace, a lounge, and a bar. Families benefit from a secure and stimulating environment, with vast plots for exploration and top-notch amenities for various activities.
SPORTING PURSUITS
Equestrian and Tennis
The Riding Club accommodates up to 20 horses, offering facilities for training, show jumping, and dressage. The Tennis Club includes two tennis courts and a paddle court, with professional lessons available for all ages.
Nature Exploration
La Zagaleta’s 900 hectares of mostly undeveloped land provide an ideal setting for hiking and cycling on numerous trails. Residents can explore nature on foot or by bicycle, encountering herds of deer and wild boar roaming freely.
RESIDENTS AND MANAGEMENT
Resident Profile
Known for privacy, La Zagaleta is home to celebrities, actors, football players, and reputedly even President Vladimir Putin. Traditionally attracting mature buyers, recent years have seen a shift, with younger residents from places like Scandinavia joining the community.
Management Structure
A holding company manages the urbanization. CEO Jacobo Cestino and Executive Chairman Ignacio Pérez Díaz lead the company. The group expanded in 2016 with the acquisition of Grupo Valderrama, including a famous golf course and 220 hectares for further development.
Real Estate Expertise in La Zagaleta
Buying and Selling: Villa Noble specializes in assisting clients with buying and selling villas and land in La Zagaleta. Their portfolio includes over 20 properties on and off market, ranging from building plots to luxury residences. They guide clients through the entire process, from finding the right plot or property to developing dream homes. High-net-worth clients actively seek properties in La Zagaleta.
Article by Louis Wittner
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