La Zagaleta Area Guide

18th March 2025 · 13 min. read · by Carmen de Arriaga

La Zagaleta is the ultimate destination for those seeking exclusivity, privacy, and security above all else. It is an exquisite retreat surrounded by nature and tranquillity, yet conveniently close to the Mediterranean beaches and the vibrant atmosphere of Marbella. This privileged enclave redefines Mediterranean luxury at its finest.

• Table of contents
• Where is La Zagaleta?
• Why choose La Zagaleta as a place to live or invest?
• What Types of Properties Can I Find in La Zagaleta?
• Does La Zagaleta Have Sea Views?
• What is the Environment and Landscape Like in La Zagaleta?
• What is the connectivity and accessibility like in La Zagaleta?
• What services and amenities are in La Zagaleta?
• Best Restaurants in La Zagaleta
• What international schools are near La Zagaleta?
• What else can I do in La Zagaleta and its surroundings?
• Is La Zagaleta safe to live In?
• Our top Reason to choose La Zagaleta:

La Zagaleta is perched on an elevated area of Benahavís, a charming municipality neighbouring Marbella. Its privileged location offers a unique natural setting while remaining just minutes from the beach and some of the most iconic luxury destinations on the Costa del Sol, such as Marbella Club, Puente Romano, and Puerto Banús.

Benahavís, its host municipality, is a picturesque Andalusian town with a small urban centre, yet surrounded by vast expanses of unspoilt nature. The landscape seamlessly blends serene valleys with rolling hills covered in lush forests, creating a setting of breathtaking beauty. Spanning 145 km², the municipality is home not only to a charming whitewashed village but also to some of the most exclusive residential areas on the Costa del Sol, including La Quinta, Los Arqueros, Los Flamingos, and Montemayor. To the north, at the highest point, lies the impressive 900-hectare estate of La Zagaleta.

In this distinguished residential area, Mediterranean wild vegetation coexists with magnificent centuries-old trees, such as pines and cork oaks, adding a sense of authenticity and freshness to the landscape.

La Zagaleta’s prime location also makes it an ideal starting point for excursions and cultural visits. The province of Málaga and, more broadly, the region of Andalusia, offer an endless array of experiences, boasting historical treasures and stunning natural landscapes. Exploring the rural roads surrounding La Zagaleta is a true delight, leading to enchanting white villages, ecological reserves, and exceptional rural tourism options that invite adventure and relaxation.

1. La Zagaleta represents the pinnacle of luxury on the Costa del Sol. It is the most exclusive private residential estate in the Mediterranean and one of the most prestigious in Europe.
2. It boasts the finest mansions and villas in the region, designed with exceptional comfort and spaciousness. 
3. Whether plots of land, villas under construction, or completed residences, properties in La Zagaleta are always in high demand and retain their value.
4. Every corner of La Zagaleta offers breathtaking panoramic views: of the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar, and the Rif Mountains, of the majestic Sierra de las Nieves, or of the lush golf courses. Some properties even enjoy multiple scenic perspectives, further enhancing their exclusivity.
5. The estate has two access points (south and north), both monitored 24/7 by security personnel.
6. Among its exclusive amenities are two private golf courses, an equestrian centre, padel and tennis courts, a gourmet shop, and two exclusive Clubhouses. A private helipad is also available for residents' convenience. Additionally, La Zagaleta offers a range of personalised services, including at-home health and beauty treatments, administrative assistance, housekeeping, and laundry services, among others.
7. Architectural designs in La Zagaleta blend beauty with cutting-edge technology. The residences generally fall into three main styles: modern, classic, and Andalusian-inspired. Some properties can be redesigned or fully rebuilt, and there are also plots available for bespoke projects from the ground up.
8. The number of properties within La Zagaleta is strictly limited. Currently, around 250 villas have been built, with a total of 420 properties planned for the future.
9. La Zagaleta is situated in Benahavís, one of the municipalities with the highest per capita income in Spain, thanks to its concentration of some of the country’s most luxurious residential developments. 
10. Beyond the estate, numerous fascinating destinations await. La Zagaleta is surrounded by a world of natural beauty and charming rural landscapes, including historic towns such as Ronda, while also being within easy reach of major Spanish cities like Seville and Granada.

The success of this exclusive real estate resort is largely due to its close collaboration with renowned architects. The result is homes of unparalleled beauty, designed to be efficient, sustainable, and equipped with the latest in home comfort technology. When combined with guaranteed privacy and security, an exceptional range of services, and the unique mountain-sea setting of the Costa del Sol, La Zagaleta stands as an unrivalled residential development in Europe. The quality of life it offers, meticulously curated in every detail, is simply unmatched.

Each villa is conceived as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. With a deep respect for the extraordinary natural surroundings, the development has prioritised low building density, ensuring that all properties benefit from stunning views of the sea, mountains, golf courses, or a combination of these. The estate follows strict design regulations to guarantee maximum privacy between neighbours. Furthermore, all constructions must adhere to the community guidelines set by La Zagaleta, preserving the harmony and exclusivity that define this prestigious enclave.

Many properties in La Zagaleta enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Thanks to its elevated location in Benahavís, some villas offer panoramic vistas stretching from the coastline to Gibraltar and the Rif Mountains in Morocco.

Not all properties have sea views, as the estate also offers spectacular outlooks over the mountains, golf courses, and surrounding nature. However, villas with Mediterranean views are particularly sought after for their exclusivity and beauty.

La Zagaleta is more than just a luxury residential estate—it is a way of life. Nestled in a privileged natural setting, it seamlessly blends exclusivity, privacy, and world-class services with breathtaking surroundings.

Surrounded by mountains and offering stunning views of the Mediterranean, this prestigious community in Benahavís attracts successful entrepreneurs, celebrities, and high-net-worth families from around the world. The low-density development ensures expansive green spaces and uninterrupted views of the sea, mountains, or golf courses. The quality of life is exceptional, with 24-hour security and strict community regulations that guarantee maximum privacy for residents.

Properties are designed under rigorous architectural standards, with minimum plot sizes of 3,000 m² and a building ratio of 15%. Lush tree-lined avenues, named after artists like Goya, Klimt, and Monet, enhance the estate’s natural beauty. The local flora and fauna are carefully preserved, allowing deer, Iberian ibex, and a variety of birds to roam freely in this protected ecosystem, where Mediterranean scents fill the air all year round.

Another major highlight is the climate, boasting over 300 days of sunshine per year and mild winters. Its elevated location provides a slightly cooler atmosphere than the coast, making it perfect for outdoor living and enjoying its exclusive lifestyle.

With a history dating back to the 1960s and an evolution defined by excellence, La Zagaleta remains Europe’s most exclusive residential estate, where luxury and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

La Zagaleta enjoys a prime location with excellent connections to the main roads of the Costa del Sol, including the A-7 motorway and the AP-7 toll road. It is just a 20-minute drive from Marbella and Estepona, as well as from iconic destinations such as Puerto Banús and Puente Romano.

For international travel, Málaga Airport is 50 minutes away by car, while Gibraltar Airport is approximately one hour away. Additionally, the estate has its own heliport, offering an even faster and more exclusive transport option.Connectivity with the rest of Spain is also excellent. From Málaga city, the AVE high-speed train provides a direct link to Madrid in just two and a half hours, ensuring a swift and comfortable connection to the capital.

La Zagaleta stands out for its extensive range of exclusive services, designed to provide residents with maximum comfort and peace of mind. A highly skilled team works discreetly to ensure a worry-free lifestyle, offering assistance both within the estate and in its surroundings.

Personalised Services

The estate features Zagaleta Service Management, a service that goes beyond traditional concierge assistance by offering tailored solutions to each resident. Its services include:

• Home assistance: Technical inspections, cleaning, laundry, and home delivery of purchases.
• Educational support: Private language tutors and academic assistance.
• Administrative support: Payment of bills and taxes, insurance management, and financial advisory, all handled with absolute discretion.
• Personalised lifestyle services: Availability of private chefs, catering, personal shoppers, nannies, chauffeurs, and bespoke travel arrangements.
• Healthcare services: Quick access to top private clinics within 10 minutes or in-home medical assistance, including nursing and physiotherapy.

Exclusive Infrastructure and Leisure Facilities

Residents benefit from world-class facilities, including:

• An exclusive Clubhouse with a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, and tennis courts.
• A state-of-the-art equestrian centre, perfect for horse enthusiasts.
• 24/7 security, with strict access controls ensuring privacy and safety.
• Over 50 km of internal roads, allowing seamless mobility within the estate.
• Advanced maintenance systems, such as automated irrigation, street lighting, and water purification.

Premium Connectivity and Mobility

One of La Zagaleta’s most exclusive features is its private helipad, offering rapid transfers for private travel, tourism, or medical emergencies—providing an efficient and seamless transport option.In summary, La Zagaleta offers an unparalleled luxury environment, where every detail is designed to elevate the quality of life of its residents to the highest level.

La Zagaleta offers an exclusive dining experience, where haute cuisine, top-quality ingredients, and impeccable service come together in breathtaking settings. Its Clubhouses are culinary landmarks within the estate, blending sophistication and comfort with an exceptional gastronomic offering.

The Old Course Clubhouse serves as La Zagaleta’s social and culinary hub. With a panoramic terrace and elegant lounges, its menu ranges from casual snacks to fine dining. Signature dishes include Iberian "pata negra" ham, fresh salads with innovative dressings, homemade pasta, and a premium selection of meats, fish, and seafood from Spain’s finest suppliers. Artisanal desserts and an exquisite wine list featuring both national and international selections—highlighting wines from the Serranía de Ronda and Málaga—complete the experience.

The New Course Clubhouse, in contrast, offers a more intimate and serene atmosphere, with lake views and refined service. Frequently chosen for weddings and private events, it is known for its elegance, privacy, and high-level cuisine.

La Zagaleta’s restaurants perfectly embody the estate’s luxury and excellence. Whether enjoying a lunch with spectacular views or a gourmet dinner, every detail is crafted to provide a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

The Marbella, Estepona, and San Pedro de Alcántara area offers a wide selection of prestigious international schools, following various curricula in English, Spanish, French, German, Swedish, and bilingual or trilingual programmes.

The closest schools to La Zagaleta are Colegio Bilingüe Atalaya and Colegio San José, both known for their academic excellence and high-quality education programmes. Additionally, several renowned institutions are within easy reach, including Swans International School, Colegio Laude, The British International School of Marbella, Colegio Internacional Estepona, Deutsche Schule Málaga, Colegio Aloha, and Colegio Bilingüe Las Chapas, offering top-tier education tailored to different nationalities and teaching methodologies.

La Zagaleta offers a wide range of exclusive activities throughout the year. The Old Course Clubhouse serves as the estate’s social and sporting hub, hosting gala dinners, summer barbecues, children’s events, and golf, tennis, and padel tournaments, among others. Many of these events coincide with national celebrations or sporting competitions, creating a lively and sophisticated atmosphere.

Beyond La Zagaleta, there are numerous leisure opportunities. Benahavís, the estate’s home municipality, is a paradise for nature lovers, offering hiking, cycling, and canyoning. Some recommended trails include the Sendero de las Libélulas, Las Acequias, and Las Angosturas, the latter being a moderate-level aquatic route.

For those seeking relaxation and wellness, the Anantara Villa Padierna Hotel features a luxurious 2,000 m² spa, complete with Roman baths, a hammam, and pools surrounded by lush gardens. Its therapeutic and beauty treatments provide a rejuvenating experience.

For thrill-seekers, Sierra Nevada offers excellent skiing just three hours away by car, while the Ascari private race circuit, located one hour north, is a must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts. Also within an hour’s drive, Sotogrande is the polo capital of Spain, hosting international tournaments in an exclusive setting.

Marbella, of course, adds even more to the entertainment options. From docking a yacht in one of its four marinas to enjoying its legendary nightlife, exclusive events, and world-class restaurants, the city offers something for everyone.

Children also have a wealth of activities to enjoy, including cooking workshops, water parks, zoos, theatres, Christmas events, programming classes, cinemas, and skateparks, ensuring fun and learning in a safe and privileged environment.

La Zagaleta and its surroundings offer a perfect blend of nature, exclusivity, and top-tier entertainment, providing unforgettable experiences for every preference.

Yes, La Zagaleta is one of the safest residential estates in Europe. Its exclusivity is not only defined by luxury and privacy but also by a sophisticated security system that ensures the utmost peace of mind for its residents.

Access to the estate is strictly controlled through two gated entrances with 24/7 surveillance, allowing entry only to property owners, authorised guests, and accredited staff. Additionally, a highly trained security team patrols the area constantly, maintaining a fully protected environment.

La Zagaleta’s design also enhances security. With low construction density, large private plots, and extensive natural areas, properties are well-spaced, reinforcing privacy. Furthermore, each residence can be equipped with advanced security systems, including CCTV surveillance, alarms, and smart home technology.Thanks to these measures, La Zagaleta provides an environment of unmatched tranquillity and discretion, making it an ideal place for those seeking a safe, exclusive, and natural setting.

1. Unparalleled Privacy and Security: La Zagaleta offers a highly secure environment with 24/7 guarded entrances and comprehensive surveillance systems, ensuring residents' utmost privacy and peace of mind. 
2. Luxurious Amenities: Residents have exclusive access to world-class facilities, including two private 18-hole golf courses, a sophisticated clubhouse, an equestrian center, tennis courts, and a helipad, enhancing the luxurious lifestyle. 
3. Stunning Natural Surroundings: The estate is nestled within 900 hectares of pristine Mediterranean woodland, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar, and surrounding mountains, providing a serene and picturesque setting. 
4. Proximity to Marbella: Despite its secluded setting, La Zagaleta is just a 15-minute drive from Marbella's vibrant city center, offering easy access to cultural attractions, beaches, and fine dining. 
5. Architectural Excellence: The properties in La Zagaleta are among the most magnificent in Southern Spain, featuring grand villas and mansions with stunning sea views, set on expansive plots that ensure privacy and blend seamlessly with the natural environment