Inside La Zagaleta: Living in Spain’s most expensive estate
Just a short drive from Marbella, tucked into the hills of Benahavís, lies Spain’s most expensive residential estate: La Zagaleta. Often described as the most exclusive country club estate in Europe, it is home to some of the country’s most valuable properties, with homes going for an average price of €12,366,846.
At the very top of the market, the current headline listing is Villa Único, offered at €30,000,000. Tailored for the worldly and refined buyer who believes they’ve seen it all, this extraordinary villa redefines luxury living. Everything is on a grand scale with a 8,000 m² plot, 2,200 m² interior space over 4 floors, and 1,100 m² of terraces with seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Villa Único, Ref: 15637
But numbers alone do not explain the prestige of living here. It is the combination of setting, privacy, and lifestyle that has made La Zagaleta one of the most sought after addresses for those who can choose anywhere in the world.
Security, space and lifestyle
La Zagaleta regularly tops national rankings for luxury real estate. What started in the early 1990s as an ambitious gated estate spanning nearly 900 hectares of protected countryside, has been transformed into a luxurious private residential community, where demand outstrips supply.
This extraordinary luxury villa pictured below (currently under construction) will be a bold statement of modern sophistication with 7 en-suite bedrooms plus separate 2-bedroom staff accommodation. An elevator will connect all 3 floors for seamless accessibility. Asking Price: 19,500,000 €
A new villa currently being built, Ref: 15615
Every home in La Zagaleta sits on a generous plot, with most plots enjoying panoramic views across the Mediterranean to Gibraltar and Morocco.
The estate offers two private golf courses, an equestrian centre, tennis courts, and a clubhouse reserved exclusively for owners and their guests. There are two entrances, both of which are guarded with round-the-clock security ensuring absolute privacy. This sense of discretion is one of the qualities that appeals most to its international residents.
The property shown below is an impressive Andalusian-style 7-bedroom mansion, designed by renowned architects with a total of 1,562 m² built on a 4,651 m² plot with 581 m² terraces. The estate faces southeast and has panoramic sea and mountain views. The basement features a cinema, games room, spa, heated pool, gym, and independent apartment.
Andalucian style grand villa
A day in the life
Morning lifestyle
Life in La Zagaleta begins quietly, with mountain air and neighbours jogging on empty roads while others pass in golf buggies on their way to an early tee time. The clubhouse terrace is a favourite for coffee and breakfast, with sweeping views across the coast to Gibraltar. From there, the day might lead to a round of golf on one of the two private 18-hole courses, a ride from the equestrian centre, or a session with a trainer in the gym or at home. Concierge staff discreetly take care of deliveries and errands, so the pace always feels unhurried.
Zagaleta's Riding Club provides the finest facilities for stabling, grooming, coaching and practicing both recreational and competition riding
Afternoon leisure
Afternoons are for choice. Many residents work from home with reliable connections, while others play tennis or padel, swim, or meet friends for a long lunch at the clubhouse. Families value the estate’s security, allowing children to cycle and visit friends freely. For those who want a change of pace, Marbella and Puerto Banús are only 15 to 20 minutes away, yet the return to La Zagaleta always feels like stepping back into calm.
Evening entertainment
Evenings are centred around home life and entertaining. Villas are built with sunset terraces and spacious kitchens, making it easy to host dinners or cocktail parties. Pre-registered guests move smoothly through security, and evenings often flow from poolside drinks to dining under the stars, ending with a film in a private cinema room. Community life adds a gentle social layer, with charity events, golf competitions and relaxed gatherings at the clubhouse offering connection without intrusion.
Acquiring an address within La Zagaleta
At Panorama we have had the privilege of introducing clients to some of the most outstanding homes within the estate. These are not standardised properties. Each villa is individually designed and built to the highest specifications, often with features such as home cinemas, wellness areas, wine cellars and guest pavilions.
This beautiful classic style villa pictured below, is in a prime location within the Zagaleta community, right beside one of the golf courses. Views of the golf course and the Ronda mountains can be enjoyed from almost every window of the property.
Classic-style villa in a prime location within La Zagaleta, Ref: 15132
Some owners choose traditional Andalusian architecture with elegant courtyards and tiled roofs. Others prefer cutting edge modern design with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and sleek contemporary interiors. What they all have in common is a commitment to craftsmanship, absolute privacy and an atmosphere that reflects the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Villa Olivia, is an exclusive brand-new villa with a cutting edge modern design. It sits on an elevated south-facing plot with panoramic sea and mountain views. The 62 m² designer kitchen is quite splendid, plus there is a secondary kitchen and pantry. The grand master suite enjoys two dressing rooms and a private sea-view terrace. And the wellness area is impressive with spa, hammam, sauna, gym and indoor pool.
Villa Olivia, Ref: 15064
Market insight
Despite wider fluctuations in the property market, homes in La Zagaleta remain a solid investment. Supply is limited and tightly controlled, which preserves the exclusivity of the development. Interest comes not only from Spanish buyers but also from families across Europe, the Middle East and the Americas who are drawn to the security and lifestyle on offer here in Marbella’s hills.
Why buyers choose La Zagaleta
Unmatched privacy and security
Vast plots and exceptional views
Access to first class amenities
An address recognised worldwide for prestige
This contemporary mansion with sea views (pictured below), is just a 5-minute drive from Zagaleta’s south gate, near the equestrian centre and the club house. One of the standout features of this property is the grand hall with double height ceiling and floating staircase to rooftop solarium. The outdoor terrace is also exceptional with a fully fitted kitchen, BBQ, pool, and manicured garden. Parking for 10 cars at the entrance and underground garage for 4 cars.
Stunning contemporary home, near the south gate, Ref: 12925
Living in La Zagaleta is obviously not an option for everyone. Ownership here requires a significant commitment both in acquisition and ongoing maintenance. Yet for those who are searching for the very best, La Zagaleta offers a lifestyle that few places in Europe can rival.
If you are looking for a property in this exceptional area, we can help you to refine your search. We have been helping people find their dream homes for over 55 years! Use the form on our contact page, email us directly or send us a quick WhatsApp message: 952 822 111
