La Zagaleta

La Zagaleta: Exclusivity and Privacy in a Natural Setting

La Zagaleta epitomizes the pinnacle of authentic luxury, discretion, and security. It is one of the most coveted residential areas within the Golden Triangle, where demand currently exceeds the available supply, particularly for newly built villas.

What is La Zagaleta?

La Zagaleta is one of Europe’s most exclusive residential resorts. Located in the municipality of Benahavís and surrounded by the Sierra de las Nieves and Sierra Bermeja mountain ranges, this 900 hectare estate is comprised of majestic villas set on expansive plots, each designed to offer maximum privacy. The lush natural surroundings, high-end services, strict security, and an exclusive community of homeowners are among the key features that make this place truly unique.

The Origin of La Zagaleta

The story of La Zagaleta began in the 1990s when this verdant land transitioned from a private hunting estate to one of the country’s most luxurious residential developments. Originally owned by Saudi magnate Adnan Khashoggi, who used it as a private retreat, the estate was purchased in 1991 by a group of investors with the vision of creating a luxury residential community that would preserve the natural beauty of the surroundings, its most valuable asset.

The transformation of La Zagaleta focused on privacy, security, and luxury,     while maintaining a balance between development and environmental conservation. Since then, the estate has attracted a select group of high-profile residents, including business magnates, celebrities, and influential figures from around the world, all under the utmost discretion.

How to Get to La Zagaleta?

The best way to reach La Zagaleta is by car, either in your own vehicle or with a private chauffeur service.

From Malaga Airport

The most convenient route from Málaga Airport to La Zagaleta is to take the AP-7 motorway towards Marbella-Algeciras, follow the Ap-7 for approximately 65 km, take exit 172 towards Benahavis, and follow the signs to La Zagaleta.

From Marbella

To reach La Zagaleta from Marbella town centre, take the N-340/A7 westbound, merge onto the AP-7, towards Estepona/Algeciras, take exit 172 towards Benahavís, and follow the signs to La Zagaleta.

From Puente Romano

The best route from Puente Romano to La Zagaleta is to head west on the N-340/A7, merge onto the AP-7 towards Estepona/Algeciras, take exit 172 towards Benahavís and follow the signs to La Zagaleta.

Does La Zagaleta have a Private Helipad?

Yes, La Zagaleta features a private helipad, adding an extra layer of exclusivity for its residents. This helipad allows owners and their guests to arrive quickly and directly at any location, providing convenient access to the estate while avoiding the region’s usual traffic.

Helipad Use

The helipad is available upon request exclusively for the private use of residents and their guests, who can utilise it with their private aircraft as one of the many exclusive services offered by this ultra luxury residential area.

Private Helicopter Service

In addition to the helipad, the estate also offers on-demand helicopter services. This means residents can arrange private flights as needed, whether for business trips, weekend getaways, or quick transfers to nearby destinations.

In summary, the private helipad and helicopter services available at La Zagaleta highlight the estate’s commitment to exclusivity, convenience, and efficiency. making it an ideal place for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle with unrestricted mobility.

Is La Zagaleta a Secure Residential Area?

Absolutely. La Zagaleta is one of the most secure residential developments in the world, thanks to its robust security systems. Security is a top priority at La Zagaleta, implemented through a combination of advanced technology and highly qualified personnel.

Security Measures

Access Control

The estate has 24-hour guarded entrances with strict access controls, ensuring that only residents and their authorised guests can enter.

Surveillance

Regular security patrols are conducted throughout the property to monitor and respond to any suspicious activity.

Advanced Technology

The security infrastructure includes CCTV, motion sensors, and alarms connected to a centralised control centre.

Security Personnel

La Zagaleta’s security team consists of highly trained professionals, including security guards, control operators, and rapid response teams.

Privacy

La Zagaleta is specifically designed to offer a high level of privacy . The properties are situated on large plots, surrounded by natural vegetation that provides visual and acoustic isolation. Additionally, the low building density ensures that each villa enjoys a private, secure and peaceful environment.

How Many Entrances does La Zagaleta have?

La Zagaleta has several entrances to ensure efficient access control and maintain the security of the estate.

North Entrance

Location: Accessible from the Ronda road.

Access: Mainly used by residents, visitors and workers

Security: 24-hour access control with surveillance; authorization is required for entry.

South Entrance:

Location: Accessible from the Benahavis road

Access: Exclusively for property owners

Security: Advanced security equipment with access restricted only to authorised residents.

Is La Zagaleta Suitable for Families?

Certainly. The security , facilities and exclusive services make La Zagaleta a perfect residential area for families looking to settle on the Costa del Sol year-round or enjoy holiday periods.

Family Environment

La Zagaleta is an ideal setting for families seeking an exclusive, safe and tranquil lifestyle. The estate offers a serene environment surrounded by nature, allowing children to grow up in a safe and healthy space.

Services and Activities

La Zagaleta offers a wide range of services and activities that are perfect for families, including:

Sports Facilities: Two internationally renowned golf courses, an equestrian centre, and tennis and paddle court.

Clubhouses: Spaces for social and recreational activities, ideal for family gatherings and community events.

Nature Trails: Numerous trails for walking, running and cycling, providing opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors.

Security

Security is one of La Zabaleta’s main features, with 24-hour surveillance and strict access control, providing peace of mind for families.

Education

The proximity to Marbella ensures that families have access to some of the best international schools and educational services in the region.

How Many Golf Courses Does La Zagaleta Have?

La Zagaleta boasts two of the finest golf courses on the Costa del Sol, each with unique characteristics.

Old Course

Designed by Bradford Benz in 1991 and renovated by Marc Westenborg in 2016, the is the oldest and most prestigious course at La Zagaleta. It offers a challenging layout and stunning panoramic views, perfectly integrating with the natural environment that characterises the resort.

Access: The Old Course is exclusive to residents and their guests. This ensures that members enjoy a private and tranquil golfing experience without interruptions from the general public.

Events: The Old Course was the venue for the 2023 PING Junior Solheim Cup, one of the world’s most important international tournaments, bringing together the best young golfers from Europe and the United States.

New Course

Inaugurated in 2005 and also designed by Bradford Benz, the New Course offers a modern and challenging layout that complements the Old Course. This course is notable for its spectacular views and integration with the surrounding natural landscape.

Access: Like the Old Course, the New Course is exclusive to residents and their guests, though external players are allowed with authorisation and only during specific hours on certain days.

Does La Zagaleta have an Equestrian Club?

Yes, La Zagaleta features an exclusive equestrian club, known as the Riding Club of La Zagaleta. This club is one of the estate’s standout facilities and is designed to cater to the needs of equestrian enthusiasts, from beginners to experienced riders.

Features of the Riding Club at La Zagaleta:

Facilites

The club boasts first-class facilities, including stables with a capacity for up to 20 horses, paddocks, and a covered arena for training, show jumping, and dressage. These facilities are designed to offer maximum comfort and safety for both horses and riders.

Services

The Riding Club provides riding lessons for all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced riders in dressage and show jumping. Residents can also enjoy the extensive trails that run through the estate, allowing them to explore La Zagaleta’s natural surrounding on horseback.

Environment

La Zagaleta offers a unique setting for horseback riding, surrounded by nature and featuring stunning views, making it an ideal place to enjoy this activity.

What other premium sports facilities does La Zagaleta offer?

In addition to its two world-class golf courses, La Zagaleta provides a variety of high-quality sports facilities, exclusively accessible to property owners and their guests.

Equestrian Centre

La Zagaleta boasts a top-tier equestrian centre, offering high-quality facilities for horse lovers. The centre includes modern stables, training arenas, a riding school, and access to equestrian trails that wind through the estate’s beautiful natural landscape.

Activities: Residents can enjoy riding lessons, horseback rides, and equestrian competitions in a safe and exclusive environment.

Tennis and Paddle Club

For tennis and paddle enthusiasts, La Zagaleta offers a racket club with several tennis and paddle courts. The facilities are designed to meet the highest standards, providing a perfect environment for both practice and competition.

The club has hard and grass courts, night lighting, and rest areas for players and spectators.

Gym and Spa

La Zagaleta offers a state-of-the-art gym equipped with a range of machines and exercise equipment to meet all the fitness needs of its residents. Additionally, the spa provides a place for relaxation and rejuvenation, with services such as massages, facial and body treatments, sauna and Turkish bath.

Residents can enjoy personalised training sessions, group fitness classes, and wellness programs designed to enhance their overall health and well-being.

Shooting Range

For those interested in shooting sports, La Zagaleta offers a private shooting range. This facility is designed to provide a safe and controlled environment for target shooting and other related activities.

The shooting range is operated by qualified professionals who ensure safety and compliance with all regulations.

How many Clubhouse are there in La Zagaleta?

La Zagaleta features two main clubhouses, each with its own distinct atmosphere and range of services:

The Old Clubhouse

This is the original clubhouse of La Zagaleta and serves as the social and recreational hub of the estate. Here, residents can enjoy a variety of amenities, including fine dining restaurants, a bar, event spaces a golf shop, and a swimming pool. The Old Clubhouse is ideal for both formal events and more casual gatherings among residents.

The New Clubhouse

More recently inaugurated, the New Clubhouse offers a more modern and relaxed environment. It is open even to guests or non-residents during private events. In addition to its restaurant and bar, the New Clubhouse features terraces with lake views, creating a perfect setting for socializing after a round of golf or enjoying a more informal meal.

Are there Restaurants Within La Zagaleta?

Yes, residents of La Zagaleta have access to multiple leisure options without leaving the estate, including fine dining:

Restaurante Arbonauta

An exclusive restaurant within La Zagaleta, known for its focus on sustainable and locally-sourced cuisine. The menu features dishes that stand out for their freshness and quality, using seasonal local ingredients. The atmosphere at Arbonauta is intimate and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a culinary experience that blends the best of nature and modern gastronomy.

Private Catering Services

For those who prefer to enjoy gourmet dining in the privacy of their own home, La Zagaleta offers a top-tier private catering service. Residents can hire private chefs to prepare customised menus, perfect for special events or intimate dinners. This service is fully tailored to each client’s preferences and needs ensuring a unique culinary experience without leaving home.

What Premium Services does La Zagaleta offer to Homeowners?

La Zagaleta is synonymous with exclusivity and luxury, reflected in the wide range of personalised services it offers to its residents

Property Management and Maintenance

La Zagaleta ensures that each property is kept in perfect condition through comprehensive home and garden maintenance services. This includes everything from detailed gardening to general repairs, ensuring that each residence maintains its high standards.

Concierge and Personal Assistance Services

Residents have access to a highly personalised concierge service that takes care of organizing daily activities, making reservations at exclusive restaurants, managing private events, and providing additional staff such as private chefs or assistants for events. Furthermore, assistance with legal, fiscal, and administrative matters is available, making life as hassle-free as possible.

Private Helicopter Transport

For those who require fast and private transportation, La Zagaleta offers a helicopter service, providing exclusive and efficient access to any destination, whether for personal or business reasons.

Other Support Services

In addition to the main services, La Zagaleta offers a variety o support services such as laundry, housekeeping, and shopping and delivery management. All of this is designed so that residents can enjoy their free time without worrying about everyday tasks.

These exclusive services ensure that living in La Zagaleta is an unparalleled luxury experience, where every detail is designed for the utmost comfort and well-being of its residents.

What are the best International Schools near La Zagaleta?

La Zagaleta enjoys a privileged location amidst nature, offering exquisite quality of life and unparalleled privacy. However, this location necessitates travel for access to certain services. Here are some of the recommended international schools for residents of La Zagaleta:

Aloha College Marbella

→ (15 KM from La Zagaleta)

Aloha College Marbella is one of the oldest and most prestigious international schools in the region, founded in 1982. It offers a British curriculum from primary through to secondary education along with the option to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB). The school is renowned for its holistic approach to education, combining academic excellence with strong developments in sports, arts, and extracurricular activities. Aloha College fosters a multicultural environment with students from over 50 nationalities.

Sotogrande International School

→ (45 KM from La Zagaleta)

This globally recognized international school is known for its innovative and personalised approach to education. It offers the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, ensuring a high-quality education that prepares students for global success. In addition to its academic excellence, Sotogrande International School is distinguished by its strong arts, music, and sports programmes and it fosters a strong sense of community among its students.

Swans International School

→ (20 KM from La Zagaleta)

With over 50 years of history, Swans International School is another top choice for families seeking an international education in Marbella. The school offers a British curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Swans is known for its balanced approach to academics, arts, and sports, as well as its strong emphasis on character development and values. The school promotes an inclusive learning environment with students from diverse nationalities.

Are there International Medical Centres near La Zagaleta?

As with schools, accessing medical centres requires traveling outside La Zagaleta. However, the Costa del Sol boasts one of the best healthcare offerings in the country. Here are some recommended centres:

Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella

→ (20 KM from La Zagaleta)

Part of the prestigious Quirónsalud group, this hospital is known for providing cutting-edge medical care in a modern and comfortable setting. The hospital offers a wide range of specialities from general consultations to advanced treatments in oncology, cardiology and cosmetic surgery. Additionally, it offers exclusive services such as private rooms and personalised care in multiple languages, ideal for international patients.

HC Marbella International Hospital

→ (12 KM from La Zagaleta)

This boutique hospital specializes in personalised medical care with a focus on quality and comfort. HC Marbella offers high-end medical services, including oncology, general surgery and preventive medicine in a luxurious setting. The facilities include private rooms with all amenities, and a highly qualified medical team that caters to an international clientele. The hospital is also known for its holistic approach, combining conventional medicine with complementary therapies.

Hospiten Estepona

→ (20 KM from La Zagaleta)

A highly regarded private hospital, known for its excellence in medical care and focus on international patients. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, and advanced surgery. With an internationally trained medical team, state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centred approach, Hospiten Estepona is a top choice for those seeking high-quality medical care in a luxurious environment.

Are there Properties for Sale in La Zagaleta?

La Zagaleta is one of the most exclusive luxury residential areas in Europe and highly sought after within the Golden Triangle. Demand for new properties often exceeds the available supply, especially for those with sea views.

The exclusive property catalogue of Pure Living Properties includes several villas in La Zagaleta. Here are some of our favourites:

Impressive south facing villa, inspired by Italian design for sale in La Zagaleta - PLP04901 - 10.900.000 €

Luxury Villa with Stunning Views in La Zagaleta, Benahavis - PLP04578 - Price on application

Can I Build My Custom Villa in La Zagaleta?

If you don’t mind waiting a little longer to get the villa of your dreams designed to your specifications in La Zagaleta, the best option would be to find a plot (availability is scarce) and build it from scratch.

At Pure Living Properties, we have a team of experts who will guide you through the entire process to make your dream mansion a reality.

Javier Nieto CEO / General Manager

Meet Javier

Javier is the founder and CEO of Pure Living Properties. Born and raised in Marbella in an entrepreneurial family who settled on the Costa del Sol in the 1960s, when Marbella’s real estate and tourism industry was just a fledgling market, Javier is an expert connoisseur of Puente Romano, which he calls home, and the Golden Mile, but also of the best areas, projects and companies, as their owners and developers have been among his inner circle since childhood.