La Zagaleta

What is La Zagaleta? 

La Zagaleta is one of Marbella’s ultra-exclusive residential communities, known for its maximum privacy, low density, on-site amenities and internal road work. Just a 5-minute drive from San Pedro, it offers a luxury lifestyle surrounded by woodlands and the sea while keeping its ultra-exclusive feel. 

Unlike neighbouring areas such as Benahavis, San Pedro, or Lomas De La Quinta, this luxury gated community stands on its own, mainly defined by its elegance, ID-level security, and a strong sense of status. With spacious streets, mature landscaping, and some of Marbella’s most prestigious villas, La Zagaleta perfectly captures the balance between luxury living and community.

Where is la Zagaleta? 

La Zagaleta is located in the hills of Benahavís, just 5 minutes north of San Pedro de Alcántara and 20 minutes from Marbella’s Golden Mile. Nestled within 900 hectares of protected woodland, this gated estate is one of the most privileged natural settings on the Costa del Sol.

The community sits along the scenic Ronda Road (A-397), a route that winds upward from Marbella into the Serranía de Ronda mountains. Access is strictly controlled through two private gates:

• South Gate – reserved exclusively for residents, offering the quickest route to San Pedro and Marbella.

• North Gate – the main entrance for guests, deliveries, and contractors, featuring 24-hour staffed security and ID checks.

From its elevated position, La Zagaleta commands breathtaking sea and mountain views, stretching across Marbella, Gibraltar, and even the North African coastline on clear days. It perfectly combines a secluded atmosphere, with connectivity to all key destinations across the region.

Distances from La Zagaleta:

• San Pedro de Alcántara – 9 km (10 min)

• Puerto Banús – 12 km (20 min)

• Marbella Centre – 20 km (25 min)

• Benahavís Town – 14 km (20 min)

• Estepona – 27 km (30 min)

• Málaga Airport (AGP) – 71 km (45 min)

• Gibraltar Airport – 72 km (1 hr)

What is the history of La Zegaleta? 

La Zagaleta’s story begins in the late 1980s, when the land it now occupies was part of a vast private hunting estate owned by Saudi businessman Adnan Khashoggi, known then as La Baraka. This secluded retreat hosted Hollywood celebrities during Marbella’s golden era, setting the tone for the area’s future exclusivity.

In 1991, a visionary group of Spanish investors led by Enrique Pérez Flores acquired the 900-hectare estate with the ambition of creating Europe’s most secure and luxurious residential community. They renamed it La Zagaleta and began developing a limited number of large private plots, a private golf course, and an elegant clubhouse - laying the foundation for the ultra-low-density, nature-integrated lifestyle that defines it today.

Over the decades, La Zagaleta has become a symbol of discretion, prestige, and environmental harmony, evolving from a private retreat into one of the world’s most coveted gated estates. In 2024, it entered a new chapter when Modon Holding, an investment group from Abu Dhabi, acquired the company to safeguard its legacy while introducing carefully planned future developments.

How big is La Zagaleta? 

La Zagaleta spans an extraordinary 900 hectares (2,223 acres) of private, gated land - making it one of the largest and most exclusive residential estates in Europe. Set roughly 450 metres above sea level, it offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean, Gibraltar, and even the coastline of North Africa on clear days.

Within this vast natural reserve, only 230 homes currently exist, with potential for around 420 villas in total once every plot is developed. This ultra-low density ensures that each residence enjoys total privacy, surrounded by lush forests, rolling valleys, and protected green zones where no further construction is permitted.

Every property within La Zagaleta sits on expansive plots ranging from 3,000 m² to over 15,000 m², connected by 50 km of internal private roads.

What styles of homes can be found in La Zagaleta? 

La Zagaleta is celebrated for its architectural excellence and individuality. Every home is one-of-a-kind, built to the highest standards by some of Europe’s most renowned architects. There are no duplicates here - each residence is designed to harmonize with the surrounding nature while reflecting the owner’s taste and personality.

The architectural language varies widely, from classic Andalusian villas with stone façades, courtyards, and tiled roofs to ultra-modern masterpieces of glass and steel that blend minimalism with mountain views. Many properties merge Mediterranean warmth with bold contemporary design natural materials, vast terraces, and infinity pools that appear to flow into the landscape.

Inside, homes typically feature grand open-plan interiors, double-height ceilings, private spas, home cinemas, gyms, and staff quarters. Outdoor spaces are just as luxurious as immaculate gardens, cascading pools, and panoramic lounges designed for year-round living.

What does it cost to buy a house in Sierra Blanca? 

Property prices in La Zagaleta typically range from €4,500,000 to over €30,000,000, with the average home valued around €10,000,000. The final price depends heavily on factors such as plot size, elevation, privacy, and the property’s architectural quality.

Traditional Andalusian mansions - often set on vast forested plots - sit alongside cutting-edge contemporary villas that feature the latest in design, sustainability, and technology. Newly constructed or fully refurbished homes naturally command the highest premiums due to their modern layouts, panoramic glazing, and advanced smart-home systems.

Some of Spain’s most spectacular private residences are found within La Zagaleta, including multi-award-winning estates such as Villa Cullinan (€32,000,000) and Villa Enso (€34,000,000). These properties embody a level of craftsmanship and exclusivity rarely seen elsewhere in Europe.

Does La Zegaleta have sea views? 

Yes, and they are among the most spectacular in all of Southern Spain. Sitting between 400 and 500 metres above sea level, La Zagaleta’s elevated position allows for sweeping, uninterrupted views across the Mediterranean coastline, Gibraltar, and even the distant mountains of North Africa on clear days.

Because of the community’s unique topography, most villas are positioned to maximize both privacy and panorama. Whether facing south or southwest, homes enjoy sun-drenched terraces, golden sunsets, and full sea vistas that stretch from Marbella to Estepona.

From the higher sectors, such as Sector H, views extend across the entire Costa del Sol, blending mountain serenity with ocean grandeur. Meanwhile, properties nestled within the valleys often combine lake, golf, and forest scenery, offering a rare balance between nature and coastal luxury.

Is La Zegaleta a popular place to live? 

La Zagaleta is widely regarded as the most prestigious residential community in Marbella, and arguably in all of Europe. Known for its unmatched privacy, 24-hour security, and breathtaking natural surroundings, it represents the pinnacle of luxury living on the Costa del Sol.

Set within 900 hectares of protected woodland, the community feels completely secluded, yet it’s only a short 10-minute drive from San Pedro and 20 minutes from Marbella’s Golden Mile. This rare combination of absolute privacy and quick access to the coast is what makes La Zagaleta so desirable among the world’s elite.

Residents include successful entrepreneurs, international business leaders, and high-profile individuals who value tranquillity, exclusivity, and discretion. The community’s two private golf courses, equestrian centre, tennis club, and luxury clubhouse make it a self-contained paradise where residents can live, relax, and entertain without ever needing to leave.

Every home sits on a large private plot surrounded by natural greenery, ensuring a deep sense of peace and security.

What is there to do in La Zegaleta? 

La Zagaleta is where nature, exclusivity, and recreation converge in perfect harmony. Set amidst rolling hills, pine forests, and panoramic sea views, the estate offers residents a private world of leisure and lifestyle without ever needing to leave the gates.

The community features two world-class 18-hole golf courses, reserved exclusively for residents and their guests. Both courses blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering challenging play with stunning Mediterranean backdrops. After a round, residents can unwind at one of the two private clubhouses, each featuring fine dining restaurants, panoramic terraces, lounges, and event spaces for social gatherings.

For those who prefer equestrian pursuits, the La Zagaleta Equestrian Centre offers state-of-the-art facilities for training, dressage, and show jumping, along with stables for up to 20 horses. There’s also a tennis and paddle club, a private heliport for direct air access, and more than 50 km of internal scenic roads for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature.

Wildlife lovers can experience the estate’s peaceful environment, home to deer, mountain goats, and wild boar roaming freely through the forested valleys.

What is life like for kids in La Zagaleta? 

La Zagaleta is one of the safest and most family-oriented environments in Europe, offering children the freedom to grow up surrounded by nature, security, and open space. The estate’s 24-hour gated access, internal security patrols, and low-traffic roads mean kids can play, explore, and ride their bikes freely - all within a fully protected private community.

Families are drawn to La Zagaleta for its unique mix of tranquillity, privacy, and outdoor living. The community’s wide open landscapes, private walking trails, and nearby equestrian and golf facilities make it easy for children to enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.

For education, the area is just minutes from Marbella’s top international schools, including Aloha College, Laude San Pedro, and Swans International School - all within 15–25 minutes’ drive.

Who lives in La Zagaleta? 

La Zagaleta is home to some of the most influential and affluent individuals in Europe, attracting entrepreneurs, business magnates, and international families seeking the ultimate blend of privacy, prestige, and natural beauty.

The community’s unmatched security and exclusivity make it especially appealing to high-net-worth residents who prioritise discretion and peace. Many live in La Zagaleta year-round, enjoying its proximity to Marbella’s coast and international schools, while others maintain their homes as seasonal or holiday retreats.

The resident base is truly cosmopolitan, with homeowners from across Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Despite its global character, the estate retains an intimate, neighbourly feel - residents share a mutual respect for privacy and the refined lifestyle La Zagaleta represents.

While names are kept strictly confidential due to the community’s privacy policies, La Zagaleta has long been associated with high-profile entrepreneurs, investors, and public figures, contributing to its reputation as one of Europe’s most exclusive residential enclaves.

Fun facts about La Zagaleta

• Origins of prestige: La Zagaleta was originally a private hunting estate owned by Saudi billionaire Adnan Khashoggi in the 1980s. His mansion, “La Baraka,” later became the estate’s main clubhouse.

• Limited exclusivity: Despite its vast area, La Zagaleta will never exceed 420 residences, preserving its ultra-low density and ensuring complete privacy for homeowners.

• Wildlife sanctuary: The community is home to deer, mountain goats, wild boar, and eagles, coexisting within its private forest reserves. Residents often describe it as “living inside a private national park.”

• Elite amenities: Within its gates, residents enjoy two private golf courses, two clubhouses, a helipad, equestrian centre, and tennis facilities - all exclusively for owners and their guests.

• Private roads: The internal network spans over 50 km of roads, accessible only to residents, staff, and registered visitors.

• Strict membership culture: Even homeowners must apply for membership to access La Zagaleta’s country club and golf courses. Entry fees begin around €100,000, reflecting the estate’s club-like exclusivity.

• Record-breaking villas: The estate’s trophy homes regularly set price records in Spain, with properties such as Villa Cullinan and Villa Enso valued between €30 million and €35 million.