Zagaleta: Southern Europe’s Most Exclusive Residential Enclave
Zagaleta, often referred to as the most exclusive place to live in southern Europe, is no stranger to celebrities, industry leaders, and even global dictators. The high-profile residents, coupled with the multi-million price tags of properties, make it a highly sought-after location. The enclave also boasts an exclusive golf course, with only a few hundred people permitted to play.
Putin’s Palace in Zagaleta
Adding to the intrigue of Zagaleta is the recent revelation of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s ownership of a property in the enclave. Known as the Rock of the King or Roca del Rey, the massive 2000 sqm palace features its own private vineyard, helicopter pad, and bowling alley. However, it’s the three underground floors that have raised eyebrows among Europe’s security and defence elite.
High-Tech Security Measures
As reported by the Olive Press, the property is guarded by armed personnel and has a deep bunker that monitors the Straits of Gibraltar round the clock. The gated community prides itself on its top-notch security, which was further enhanced after a late-night incident last year. A new high-tech electric fence, commissioned to an Israeli company, is being built around the 900-hectare estate located in Benahavis, between Marbella and the foothills of the Serrania de Ronda.
Property Prices and Resident Contributions
The new security measure is expected to make the property the most expensive in Spain. Residents are being charged 5,000 euros each in two installments to help cover the cost. The estate, originally called ‘La Baraka’, was owned by disgraced billionaire Saudi arms dealer, Adnan Khashoggi. Today, it is the clubhouse of the resort, which was acquired by a group of investors in 1989 led by Andalucian banker, Enrique Perez Flores.
Property Details and Amenities
The estate was divided into approximately 420 plots, with around 240 homes built so far. Most homes are priced around 7 to 8 million euros, with some even doubling in price over the last few years. The properties, surrounded by deep woodland, offer sea or mountain views. The enclave also features a private equestrian center and golf course, with a second one in the pipeline.
Membership and Lifestyle
The golf course, considered one of the best in Spain, has only 250 members as only homeowners can join. The membership fee is 120,000 euros, with an annual fee of 10,000 euros for the lead member and 7,000 euros for the second member of the family. The enclave is known for its exclusivity and high-end lifestyle, with residents maintaining a 10,000 euros credit at the club bar for spontaneous drinks or cigars.
Company Behind Zagaleta
Zagaleta is currently managed by Ignacio Perez Diaz, following the death of his father two years ago. The company’s immediate holding company, Zagaleta International UK Inc, is based in Panama, while two other entities, Soto Properties SA and Campo Alto SA, are based in Switzerland.
