A reputation for excellence is not earned overnight, nor is it easily maintained, so when two internationally recognised luxury brands come together it is a rare opportunity to create something truly outstanding.

There are many luxury homes in and around Marbella, but to create a living environment that has in itself become associated with luxury, privilege and excellence is a rare feat. And yet, this is exactly what La Zagaleta has achieved over the years, having established a brand that is associated across Europe with the highest standards in residential development.

Based upon an American concept of upmarket living, the La Zagaleta Golf and Country Club ranks among the finest in Europe, flying the flag for Marbella as it draws an international elite to these shores.

Long established as one of the very best golf courses in Europe, Valderrama is another brand that belongs to the jewels in the crown of this region, a name not only revered among golfers but also imbued with exclusive refinement.

The course and the unfaltering philosophy of perfectionism behind it achieved global allure as a result of the memorable Ryder Cup competition it hosted in 1997. After that epic event, Valderrama entered a golfing hall of fame that places it among the most exalted venues in the rich history of the sport.

The best of Marbella and Sotogrande

Though La Zagaleta is of course situated within the beautiful and well-managed municipal confines of Benahavís, it in many ways symbolises the pinnacle of the famed Marbella lifestyle, just as the sophistication and breeding of Valderrama is synonymous with that of Sotogrande.

With the coming together of La Zagaleta and Valderrama – following the acquisition of the golf course by the property development group – two uniquely distinguished brands with international élan yet roots in this area are joining to blend the very best of Marbella and Sotogrande in one spot.

Indeed, when the €40 million acquisition was announced at the beginning of 2016, following two years of legal and financial background work, it seemed to symbolise the renewed flowering of both luxury destinations.

The quality of concept, execution and attention to detail that inspired its reputation at La Zagaleta will be replicated as part of a €200 million project at Valderrama 2, which besides one of the world’s great golf clubs also consists of a country club with luxury villas, a unique golf course and a hotel.

It is here that a superlative new luxury residential country club will arise following the combined philosophy of excellence of the Valderrama and La Zagaleta brands. An example of this exclusivity can be found in the history of La Zagaleta itself where, back in 1990, the developer reduced the initially permitted density of homes from 3,000 to 420, making the project truly unique at the time.

“We want to ensure the same standards are maintained as that upon which we have built our name,” says Ignacio Pérez Díaz, Zagaleta Group’s Head of Business Development.

He stresses that while the unique ambience and characteristics of Valderrama will be nurtured, the intention is to create a living environment of superlative quality. One major difference will be the topography, which in Benahavís is hilly and at Sotogrande gently undulating.

“This creates a setting unique in its own views and landscapes,” says Ignacio, for whom the combination of golf and exclusive living fits like a glove. “We are joining two concepts that are made for each other, two brands that offer the promise of the highest expectations supported by having other top quality facilities on its doorstep.”

In this, he refers to the stylish marina of Sotogrande, the renowned Santa María Polo Club, the beautiful natural surroundings and unspoiled panoramic beaches with views over Gibraltar and North Africa.

“For La Zagaleta as a company, the new venture offers an opportunity to expand the scope of our operations and apply our style and philosophy to another environment. While for a Sotogrande already enlivened by new investments in Sotogrande S.A. and the polo club, this is a truly exciting, defining moment in its history. In the coming years something truly exceptional will take shape here.”

www.lazagaleta.com