Karl Lagerfeld, Missoni, Fendi, Lamborghini or Dolce & Gabbana are major luxury brands that we associate with the highest status of clothing, designs, accessories, and cars. However, on the Costa del Sol, these brands, and many others, are synonymous with exclusive villas, dream penthouses, luxury interior decoration, and unique and personalized real estate promotions.

The premium real estate market on the Costa del Sol is at its peak, with properties selling off-plan, immediately upon construction, and at increasingly higher prices. The Agency Marbella – The Belleside Team has analyzed the best promotions and real estate projects in progress from Sotogrande to Málaga, including Casares, Estepona, Benahavís, Marbella, and Ojén, confirming the excellent health of the premium real estate market.

“Currently, the real estate market is experiencing a very positive moment. There is significant international clientele interested in the Costa del Sol, both for investment purposes and to buy a home or villa as a primary or secondary residence and the real estate market is reacting very positively to this demand,” assures Benjamin Beza, sales director of The Agency Marbella – The Belleside Team.

Juan Manuel Reyes, CEO of RGZ Developers, assures that “the real estate market is performing very well on the Costa del Sol and will continue to do so in the future. We are witnessing the arrival of buyers from Northern Europe to the South due to remote work and lifestyle changes: young people either work remotely if they can or sell their businesses in cold countries and move to Marbella seeking a better lifestyle and climate.

At RGZ Developers, they highlight that over 300 homes priced above 3 million euros are being sold annually, and “nearly 80% of homes in Marbella priced over 1 million euros are sold. New construction projects continue to sell off-plan.”

To classify the different real estate projects being developed, they have been divided into three types: Villas, apartment and townhouse complexes, and condominiums. 

According to a recent analysis on new developments conducted by The Agency Marbella – The Belleside Team, apartments dominate the market, representing more than half of the new developments.

The analysis reveals that 60% corresponds to apartment projects, significantly surpassing villas (30%) and buildings (10%). This distribution highlights a clear preference for apartments among developers and buyers.

With ten apartment projects underway, apartments represent the majority of real estate developments. This trend suggests a growing demand for practical housing, suitable for a wide range of buyers, from investors to those seeking a second home in a luxury environment. Apartments, with their shared services and lower maintenance requirements, are an attractive option for many.

On the other hand, the new villa development sector, although less numerous, constitutes a significant part of the market with six projects. These properties are usually preferred by high-net-worth buyers who seek exclusivity, privacy, and ample living spaces. Villas offer personalized features and large plots, attracting those who desire a luxury residence.

With only two projects, buildings represent the smallest proportion of developments. These projects, which include shared services and amenities, are intended for both residential and commercial use. The low proportion may indicate a more selective and specialized approach to this type of development, possibly aimed at high-density urban areas.

A new trend is taking hold and expanding in the Costa del Sol real estate market: the world’s top fashion brands are partnering with leading real estate developers to infuse the area with unparalleled glamour, style, and prestige. Brands like Karl Lagerfeld, Lamborghini, Fendi, Versace, Missoni, and Dolce & Gabbana are creating high-end real estate projects in collaboration with experienced developers such as Sierra Blanca Estates, RGZ Developers, and DarGlobal.

This unbeatable alliance is thriving in the Costa del Sol, where almost every new development sells mostly off-plan. The added allure of branded residences further guarantees the success of these projects.

The key to this success lies in several factors: the Costa del Sol attracts an exclusive, affluent clientele who already enjoy luxury cars, handbags, and clothing from these prestigious fashion brands. What better way to sell properties than by associating them with Karl Lagerfeld, Lamborghini, Fendi, Versace, Missoni, and Dolce & Gabbana? And who better to execute this than Sierra Blanca Estates, RGZ, and DarGlobal?

For instance, of the five unique residences being constructed by Karl Lagerfeld/Sierra Blanca Estates on the Golden Mile, two have already sold for approximately 15 million euros each. Similarly, the 53 villas being built by Lamborghini and DarGlobal in Benahavís hills are selling for between 3.6 million and 8.4 million euros.

The Design Hills Dolce&Gabbana project, a premium complex of 91 residences being developed in collaboration with Sierra Blanca Estates on the Golden Mile, exemplifies this trend. When presented in September 2023 to a select group of clients, it registered sales worth 250 million euros, accounting for 37% of the total units.

EPIC by Fendi Casa, another collaboration with Sierra Blanca Estates, features 56 residences decorated by the renowned Italian brand. Located on a 48,000m² plot just 800 meters from the beach, it offers top-tier premium services.

Marea by Missoni, developed in partnership with DarGlobal, is an exclusive community in Casares with spectacular views of the Costa del Sol and the Strait of Gibraltar. The 65 residences, each with two bedrooms and 155 m², are priced starting at 1 million euros, with completion expected by June 2027.

The latest to join this real estate trend is the prestigious brand Versace, which, along with RGZ Developers, has announced a stunning villa project in the highly coveted area of Nueva Andalucía.

This integration of luxury fashion and real estate on the Costa del Sol not only enhances the market’s appeal but also sets new standards for luxury living, blending high-end fashion with sophisticated real estate development.

Marbella and the Costa del Sol have established themselves as epicenters of luxury and exclusivity in the real estate market, particularly regarding new high-end villa developments. Currently, the region boasts an impressive variety of villa projects that reflect the essence of modern design and opulence, with a total of 5 major new developments in progress. These projects include the iconic Karl Lagerfeld Villas on the Golden Mile and the stunning Lamborghini Villas in Benahavís, among others.

The price range for these exclusive villas varies significantly, from €3.6 million ($3.96 million) to €15 million ($16.5 million), ensuring options for a variety of investment levels within the luxury segment. Common features of these properties include spacious living areas ranging from 680 m² (7,319 sq ft) to 1,769 m² (19,039 sq ft), prime locations with panoramic sea and mountain views, and state-of-the-art amenities such as private pools, advanced home automation systems, and gardens designed by renowned landscape architects. These villas not only offer unparalleled living spaces but also a unique lifestyle experience, highly sought after by discerning clients.

This chart provides an integrated view of the main characteristics of luxury villas in the region, helping investors and buyers make informed decisions. Displays both size in m² and sq ft, and prices in euros and dollars, making it easier for an international audience to understand. 

The type of client looking to acquire these properties is generally an international buyer with high purchasing power, seeking both a secure investment and an exceptional place to reside. The most demanding nationalities include British, German, Scandinavian, and citizens of the United Arab Emirates, attracted by the sunny climate, world-class infrastructure, and quality of life the Costa del Sol offers. These buyers value exclusivity, privacy, and proximity to luxury services such as golf courses, marinas, fine dining restaurants, and designer boutiques. In summary, the new development villas in Marbella and the Costa del Sol represent a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and sophistication for those seeking the best in life.

Karl Lagerfeld Villas in Marbella Golden Mile

The exclusive Karl Lagerfeld Villas project, reflecting Karl Lagerfeld’s own vision, features organic yet rational architecture that bends and twists to offer breathtaking points of view.

Lamborghini Villas, in the heart of Benahavís

Experience the extraordinary as architecture and automotive power converge in an exclusive residential community in the heart of Benahavís, on the Costa del Sol. This remarkable development, set to redefine luxury living, draws inspiration from the legendary Automobili Lamborghini, renowned for its powerful energy and iconic design.

Lamborghini Villas will be situated on the hillside, each occupying a distinct level to offer breathtaking views of the sea. Each residence is equipped with a private car elevator, designed to accommodate luxurious vehicles such as Lamborghinis or other car models.

Finca Cortesín Villas, located in Casares

Among the top centers of exclusivity and luxury in Spain, Marbella and Sotogrande, are the real estate developments being carried out by Finca Cortesín in Casares.

The Gallery, 30 villas overlooking the sea in Palo Alto

Sea and mountain views. Part of the luxury Palo Alto complex. These are the 30 luxury Villas of The Gallery, which are part of the exclusive Palo Alto development in the hills of Ojén, very close to Marbella and the Costa del Sol.

The Collection Camojan, villas under the shade of Sierra Blanca

The Collection Camojan, the best example of elegance and sophistication in Marbella’s prestigious Camojan neighborhood.

Versace ventures into Nueva Andalucía with exclusive villas

The Italian fashion brand Versace, in collaboration with RGZ Developers, is spearheading a series of luxury villas in the highly privileged area of Nueva Andalucía. These villas, designed exclusively by Versace, are set to redefine luxury living.

Each villa is valued at over €10 million (approximately $10.9 million) and sits on a plot of approximately 2,000 square meters (21,528 square feet). The properties boast luxurious amenities, including expansive private gardens with custom landscaping, personal wellness centers, multiple swimming pools (one heated and connected to an outdoor pool), and a gated community with 24/7 access. Security features are state-of-the-art, controlled by artificial intelligence, and a five-star service is provided for the homeowners.

The interior decor will be crafted by Versace Home, including all flooring, kitchens, and bathrooms. This project marks the first time Versace Home is involved in such a development in Europe.

The Costa del Sol is experiencing a surge in luxurious apartment and townhouses complexes offering unique features and catering to the high-end market. These developments are characterized by their prime locations, stunning architectural designs, and world-class amenities, attracting discerning international buyers.

UNO Beach Residences on the Golden Mile spans a vast 60,000 square meter (645,835 square feet) plot with a 300-meter beachfront. This project includes 50 apartments and villas priced between €5 million and €19 million ($5.5 million to $20.9 million) and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Design Hills Dolce&Gabbana, also on the Golden Mile, features 91 residences starting at €4 million ($4.4 million). This premium complex, set for completion in 2026, includes numerous amenities such as pools, sports spaces, a spa, and a private club.

Estrella del Mar in Elviria offers 88 townhouses priced from €880,000 to €1.5 million ($968,000 to $1.65 million), with delivery expected by September 2025.

EPIC by Fendi Casa, nearing completion, includes 74 residences with prices up to €12 million ($13.2 million), featuring private pools and various communal amenities.

Santa Clara Homes in Eastern Marbella offers 104 units priced between €1,025,000 and €1,395,000 ($1.13 million to $1.54 million), ideal for golf enthusiasts.

Marea by Missoni in Casares presents 65 luxury residences starting at €1 million ($1.1 million), with delivery by June 2027.

The beachfront Dunique complex in Marbella boasts 96 apartments and townhouses priced from €2.4 million to €4.865 million ($2.64 million to $5.35 million), featuring resort-style amenities.

The Sapphire in Estepona provides 15 exclusive residences with direct beach access, priced from €1.28 million to €3.36 million ($1.41 million to $3.7 million).

Palo Alto in the hills of Ojén offers 160 residences with sea views, priced between €800,000 and €1.6 million ($880,000 to $1.76 million).

Lastly, Village Verde in Sotogrande and La Loma de Finca Cortesín in Casares offer elegant living options with prices starting from €830,000 ($913,000) and €2.6 million ($2.86 million) respectively.

Target Audience

These high-end apartment complexes primarily attract affluent international buyers, including entrepreneurs, executives, celebrities, and investors, seeking luxury, comfort, and exclusivity in a sunny and prestigious location.

Key Characteristics

1. Prime locations: Prestigious areas like the Golden Mile with breathtaking views and convenient access to amenities.
2. Luxurious amenities: State-of-the-art facilities including private pools, spas, gyms, and exclusive clubs.
3. High-Quality finishes: High-end materials, spacious layouts, and cutting-edge home automation systems.
4. Architectural excellence: Innovative designs by renowned architects, blending modern aesthetics with functionality.

UNO Beach Residences: a unique opportunity on the Golden Mile’s beachfront

For the first time in 20 years, new construction is taking place on the beachfront of the Golden Mile, underscoring the significance of UNO Beach Residences. This real estate development is situated on a vast 645,835 square foot (60,000 square meter) plot along an incredible 984-foot (300 meter) beachfront location in the heart of the Golden Mile.

This development represents a unique opportunity to acquire a luxury apartment with panoramic sea views in one of the most coveted areas in Europe. Adjacent to the luxury Puente Romano Hotel and opposite Mar Mar, the Palace of the King of Saudi Arabia, it is surrounded by spectacular villas, high-end restaurants, and top-brand stores.

UNO Beach Residences will feature 50 apartments in 7 low-rise blocks, including:

• 2-bedroom units plus office
• 6-bedroom penthouses
• 4 standalone villas

The complex will be constructed in a gently curved horseshoe-shaped pavilion elevated above the beach, offering views of meticulously landscaped gardens and pools. UNO will boast an impressive infinity pool, a fully equipped gym, and beautiful gardens creating an oasis of tranquility. Additionally, concierge services will be available to meet residents’ needs.

The uninterrupted views from the apartments span the Mediterranean Sea and the Strait of Gibraltar. The interest in this project is evident: UNO sold out during its pre-launch phase. Currently, apartments at UNO are being resold off-plan for prices ranging from €5 million to €19 million ($5.5 million to $20.8 million).

The completion of construction is expected by the end of 2025.

Design Hills Dolce&Gabbana, real estate luxury taken to another level of sophistication

When it comes to luxury brands in the real estate market on the Costa del Sol, we must mention Design Hills Dolce&Gabbana: a premium complex of 91 residences developed by Sierra Blanca Estates and Dolce & Gabbana on the Golden Mile. The project was presented in September 2023, and since then, the properties have been marketed to a select group of clients from both companies, recording sales of 250 million euros to date, which accounts for 37% of the total residences.

The complex will feature 5 buildings and numerous common areas such as pools, sports spaces, a SPA, and a private club with services.

Estrella del Mar, the jewel of Elviria

Estrella de Mar offers townhouses with 3 and 4 bedrooms spread over two levels: ground floor and first floor, complete with a private garden, covered porch/terrace, pergola, and two private parking spaces. They feature spacious living rooms, fully furnished open kitchens equipped with high-end appliances, 2 or 3 bathrooms (the master bedroom with an en-suite), and a guest toilet. All properties include underfloor heating throughout the house, aerothermal air conditioning, double glazing, motorized blinds in the bedrooms, and excellent layout.

The private development has perimeter fencing, extensive green areas, a communal pool, a gym, and a coworking space.

EPIC by Fendi Casa, exclusivity on the Golden Mile

A project nearing completion is EPIC by Fendi Casa, which offers 56 residences decorated by the prestigious Italian brand, along with common areas in the Golden Mile on a plot of over 48,000 m², just 800 meters from the beach, featuring top-notch premium services.

The residences range from 400 to 1,000 m² and include spacious floor-to-ceiling windows. They feature 3 to 5 en-suite bedrooms, private pools in penthouses, and outdoor communal pools. Each unit comes with 2 to 4 parking spaces with private access to the residence, along with stunning sea and mountain views.

The entire project is expected to be delivered this summer, as work continues on communal spaces, including the social area, pools, and outdoor walkways, which include a dedicated area for pets, a complete SPA with an indoor pool, and a restaurant.

Santa Clara, tranquility and sophistication for golf lovers

Santa Clara Homes is located in the eastern area of Marbella, just a few kilometers from the entrance to the city. It is surrounded by fantastic golf complexes, top-notch educational and healthcare facilities, and what are undoubtedly the best beaches in Marbella. Its prime location allows residents to enjoy a wide variety of services such as restaurants, beach clubs, and leisure centers within just a 10-minute radius.

Marea by Missoni, an exclusive community in Casares

This gated community boasts 24/7 security, private entrances, and panoramic views stretching from Marbella to Gibraltar. It also offers premium amenities, including an infinity pool and tennis courts.

Dunique, frontline beach next to a spectacular dune

Located on the beachfront in Marbella, at the incomparable Alicate beach, and next to the spectacular dune of Barronal de la Morena, Dunique offers 96 exceptional apartments and townhouses within a secure community featuring the most modern amenities and comforts.

Each residence includes a private pool, a private garage (for a minimum of 2 cars), a private elevator, underfloor heating, and aerothermal air conditioning for cooling and heating.

Dunique boasts impressive common areas with resort-style amenities, including 2 pools and a suspended infinity pool with views of the Mediterranean Sea, a luxurious spa area with a Turkish bath, aromatherapy, sauna, jacuzzi, and a 40-meter indoor heated pool. Additionally, there is an outdoor gym, yoga area, Roman theater, and a coworking space with a bar.

Real de La Quinta residential Country Club Resort in Benahavís

Real de la Quinta is a charming residential complex spanning 200 hectares, seamlessly integrated into the idyllic slopes of the Sierra de las Nieves, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering views of the cosmopolitan Costa del Sol. Currently under development, it is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. At present, 70% of all apartment units in this exclusive residential complex have been sold. The Phase II Los Enebros, consisting of 29 apartments spread across three buildings of three floors each, is selling off-plan, with homes starting from 196 square meters for 1.3 million euros and going up to a penthouse of 419 square meters for 2.7 million euros.

The Sapphire, a luxury complex on Estepona beach

The Sapphire is a gem on the Costa del Sol. This exclusive residential complex located in Estepona features 15 beachfront homes. These magnificent houses enjoy direct beach access and spectacular panoramic sea views, offered through impressive floor-to-ceiling windows. All interior rooms provide ample living space and open onto wrap-around private terraces, some of which include an infinity pool.

Palo Alto, Luxury Residences in the Sierra de las Nieves with Sea Views

The luxurious residences of “Palo Alto” are set on a 50-hectare plot perched in the hills of Ojén, very close to Marbella. The four modern building complexes “Los Pinsapos,” “Las Jacarandas,” “Los Almendros,” and “Los Eucaliptos” comprise 160 homes and feature a private tennis court, a coworking space, a dream health club with a spa and gym, and a weekly farmers’ market.

The apartments and penthouses have up to 4 bedrooms and sizes ranging from 87 to 220 square meters. Thanks to their mountainous location, almost all the residences offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra de las Nieves.

Currently, stock is running low in the northern part of Palo Alto, with some two-bedroom apartments and penthouses available in the Granados phase, ready for immediate delivery at 800,000 euros and a three-bedroom penthouse with 372 square meters for 1.6 million euros.

The Olivos phase has a delivery period of 12 months, with three-bedroom apartments measuring 241 square meters starting at 1,030,000 euros.

Village Verde, elegant luxury in Sotogrande

Village Verde is a project developed by La Reserva Club in Sotogrande. It is an exclusive community of luxury apartments located in the heart of Sotogrande, nestled among beautiful parks, within La Reserva and just steps away from the club’s state-of-the-art facilities.

Village Verde consists of 124 apartments situated within six hectares of parkland, with sizes ranging from 181 to 524 square meters. Each property features terraces of at least 65 square meters, with ground-floor apartments boasting private gardens. All properties come with two private garage spaces and spacious storage rooms.

All apartments from the first phase have been sold, and half of the second phase units are already sold.

La Loma de Finca Cortesín, the Essence of an Andalusian Village

La Loma de Cortesin captures the true essence of Andalusia: white villages, Andalusian courtyards, picturesque country houses… On its 4 hectares of land are these 86 private homes, each with more than 300m2. The residences form an Andalusian village, with a classic setting of fountains, flowers and winding streets.

These homes fuse timeless and elegant aesthetics, with local materials and architectural elements, but with a modern twist. Both the design and location are designed to give prominence to the stunning surroundings, guaranteeing unparalleled views from every corner.

Sierra Blanca Tower, the luxury beacon of Málaga

Sierra Blanca Tower is an innovative luxury residential development that adds a new landmark to Málaga’s skyline. Located on the Paseo Marítimo Antonio Banderas, a seafront promenade in the west of Málaga, it borders a residential area in full expansion. The 21-story tower features 69 apartments situated on a 50,000 m² beachfront plot with panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean coast, offering easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Due to its beachfront location, all apartments boast sea views and are perfectly connected to the city center, airport, motorway, and numerous spaces to enjoy the weather and nature, all just steps from the sea. The project offers spacious, light-filled rooms with first-class qualities and noble materials, combined with a unique range of exclusive non-profit services such as a gym, spa, kindergarten, toy library, pool bar, solarium, and communal workspace in Málaga. All of these amenities can be accessed with just one click via the exclusive Sierra Blanca Tower app.

Tyrian, Luxury branded residence in Estepona

Tyrian Beachfront Estepona is a fantastic four-story building at the entrance of Estepona, marking the first branded luxury residence on the Costa del Sol. By February of this year, over 40% of its residences had been sold, less than two months since its pre-launch and without an official sales release.

Developed by Prestige-Expo and the family office BZH, and designed by the architectural studio YODEZEEN, this beachfront complex in Estepona will feature a four-story building with 40 elevated villas.

The Costa del Sol, and especially Marbella, continues to solidify its position as a global epicenter of luxury real estate. The analysis conducted by The Agency Marbella – The Belleside Team, along with data obtained on new developments in the region, reveals a vibrant and expanding dynamic, marked by a significant increase in the number of projects, a varied distribution of prices, and a clear relationship between property size and costs.

Evolution of the number of projects by year

The temporal analysis of real estate projects in Marbella and the Costa del Sol shows an upward trend over the past five years. In 2019, five new developments were recorded. This number increased to eight in 2020, twelve in 2021, fifteen in 2022, and reached twenty projects last year.

This trend reflects strong market confidence and sustained demand for luxury properties. Investors and developers have ramped up their activities, responding to a global appetite for high-end residences in one of Europe’s most attractive coastal areas. Marbella and its surroundings offer a privileged climate, stunning landscapes, and an unparalleled quality of life, factors that continue to attract buyers from all over the world.

Price distribution of projects

The luxury real estate market in the Costa del Sol encompasses a wide range of prices, catering to various buyer profiles. Most projects are concentrated in the €1 to €3 million ($1.1 to $3.3 million) range, with six developments in this category. This segment stands out for offering an attractive combination of luxury and accessibility within the high-end market context.

Developments in the €3 to €6 million ($3.3 to $6.5 million) range are also prominent, with five projects, followed by four developments in the €6 to €10 million ($6.5 to $10.9 million) category. In the most exclusive segment, with prices above €10 million ($10.9 million), there are also four projects, reflecting a robust market for ultra-luxurious properties. Developments below €1 million ($1.1 million) are less common, with only two projects, indicating a limited offer in the entry-level luxury range.

This price distribution showcases the diverse options available to luxury buyers on the Costa del Sol, accommodating a variety of investment levels while maintaining a consistent standard of excellence and exclusivity.

The luxury real estate market in Marbella and the Costa del Sol remains an attractive investment for both individual buyers and large investors. The continuous expansion in the number of projects indicates solid confidence in the market’s long-term stability and growth.

Data suggests that developers should continue diversifying their offerings to capture a wide range of demands, from luxury apartments to exclusive villas with extensive grounds. In conclusion, the luxury real estate market in Marbella and the Costa del Sol is booming, characterized by sustained growth, diverse pricing, and an appreciation for space. This dynamism promises to keep the region as a preferred destination for those seeking the best in terms of luxury, comfort, and exclusivity.

The Costa del Sol is experiencing a boom in exceptional quality real estate projects. The analyzed developments indicate that the market is thriving, with hundreds of millions of euros being invested to yield billions. In fact, the projects discussed in this article, once sold, will generate over €3.2 billion ($3.5 billion). These are just a portion of the new real estate developments underway on the Costa del Sol.

Investing in real estate on the Costa del Sol means acquiring a home that provides economic tranquility and enhances the investor’s life in this magnificent enclave.

Leif Orthmann, director of The Agency Marbella – The Belleside Team, highlights the elements that have made property investment on the Costa del Sol a benchmark for prosperity in the luxury sector:

• Exclusive Environment: The Costa del Sol offers an unparalleled setting with dream beaches, an exceptional Mediterranean climate, and beautiful natural landscapes, attracting international clients seeking unique and distinguished life experiences.
• Infrastructure: The Costa del Sol boasts top-notch infrastructure, including luxurious marinas, world-renowned golf courses, and high-quality shopping centers, adding to the area’s appeal and desirability.
• Lifestyle: The region offers an enviable lifestyle, combining modern and sophisticated amenities with authentic Andalusian charm, including a rich cultural heritage, exquisite gastronomy, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
• Investment Security: Investing in real estate on the Costa del Sol is a safe bet due to its long-standing reputation for luxury living, high demand from global buyers, and consistent property value appreciation.
• Customization: The region provides bespoke properties that cater to the specific tastes and preferences of discerning buyers, ensuring each home is unique and tailor-made to their desires.
• High-Quality Standards: The Costa del Sol’s real estate market maintains stringent quality standards in construction, design, and service, ensuring that every property exudes luxury and excellence.

The synergy of these elements makes the Costa del Sol a global benchmark for luxury real estate, attracting investors and homebuyers from around the world to this prestigious destination.