El Recreo is a historic Andalusian cortijo located in Almayate, Málaga. Dating back over 100 years, this estate sits on a substantial 32,000 m² plot, offering a blend of traditional architecture and significant business potential. The property features approximately 1,607 m² of built space, including a main house with 10 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, supplemented by two independent apartments. The site offers both residential and developmental opportunities, underpinned by 20 horse stables, training tracks, and urban planning designation for the construction of 112 additional homes. The location is positioned within close proximity to the coastline and local amenities.
Compared to projects like Arosa in Mijas (from €490,000) or Waterfall Residences in Fuengirola (from €720,000), this project is fundamentally different in nature and investment level. While those projects focus on individual apartments in residential resorts, El Recreo offers a 'trophy asset' of 32,000 m² with commercial capabilities and hospitality potential. The price of €3,500,000 reflects the value of the land and buildings combined, rather than a price per m² for new-build apartments elsewhere in the region. For investors, this object is unique due to the combination of direct beach access (unlike estates further inland) and equestrian facilities.
Key characteristics of location, homes, project phase and points of attention.
The property is situated in Almayate, approximately 1.3 kilometers from Playa de Almayate. The terrain is flat, with a gentle slope of 2.1% towards the sea, characterized by a mix of urban amenities and agricultural land. The property is located in an established residential area with supermarkets and medical care within a short distance. Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport is located 33 kilometers away.
This estate offers extensive living accommodation suitable for large families or multi-generational living. The layout includes 10 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms in the main structure, alongside two self-contained guest apartments. The presence of a 300 m² commercial space allows for business activities within the residence. Equestrian enthusiasts benefit from on-site infrastructure including stables and training paddocks.
While the core of the building is over 100 years old, it has been recently renovated to merge modern living standards with historical features such as the central Andalusian patio. The plot is classified as buildable land (suelo urbanizable) by the Vélez-Málaga Town Hall, creating potential for new development projects, such as 112 additional dwellings, alongside the existing structure.
This is not a gated luxury resort or a serviced apartment complex. The amenities, including the pool and equestrian facilities, require maintenance. The location is semi-rural/urban, meaning it is integrated into the local community rather than isolated. The commercial space (300 m²) is currently a shell and requires renovation to become operational.
This property fits buyers seeking a combination of historic living and business potential. Consider entrepreneurs looking to run an equestrian center, rural hotel, or hospitality venue near the coast. Families requiring very large living spaces with options for rental income or expansion will also find suitable facilities. The location suits those who value integration with the local Spanish community, given the urban setting in Almayate. Investors recognizing the strategic value of buildable land in this region will find the technical possibilities interesting.
The foundation and structure are traditionally constructed in line with Andalusian style, evident from original elements like the patio design. Recent renovations suggest that utilities and roofing have likely been updated, though specific details should be verified. The interior finish blends rustic characteristics (wooden beams, tiles) with modern elements (industrial cold room, wood oven). The apartments are functionally fitted.
The asking price for the entire estate and buildings is set at €3,500,000. There is no variation in pricing tiers as seen in apartment complexes; this is a unique property where the total investment is fixed. The value includes the buildable land designation for 112 homes.
Daily life centers around the central courtyard, the typical patio of the Andalusian cortijo. From here, residents access the living quarters and the kitchen, equipped with a wood-fired oven and industrial cold storage. The house layout supports a busy household with two office spaces on the ground floor and eight bedrooms on the first floor. In addition to the main house, the two apartments provide privacy for guests or staff. Outside, the equestrian aspect dominates: 20 stables, a training track, and various storage areas (haylofts, hangars) provide professional infrastructure for horse riding. The distance of just 1.3 kilometers to the sea allows for morning horse care and afternoon beach walks. A supermarket and pharmacy are within walking distance, making daily errands straightforward.
Almayate is a small residential core with approximately 1,755 inhabitants, creating an intimate yet active community. The infrastructure around the project is practical: a pharmacy and supermarket are within 100 meters. The beaches of the Costa del Sol are within cycling distance (approx 1.3 km), including areas with dining and sports facilities. For larger amenities like shopping centers, Torre del Mar is available 3 kilometers away. Proximity to the airport (33 km) makes the estate accessible for international travel.
The map displays the strategic position of the plot in Almayate: rural in character with direct access to the coastal road (A-7) and within walking distance of the beach and local facilities.
Within the Costa del Sol, Almayate is located in the Axarquía region, east of Málaga City. It balances the tourist intensity of Torremolinos and Benalmádena with the quieter coastal areas further east. The proximity to Torre del Mar (3 km) ensures urban dynamism, while the plot remains rural enough for agricultural or equestrian activities.
The estate is accessible via local roads connecting to the coastal A-7 highway. Playa de Almayate beach is 1.3 kilometers away as the crow flies. For golfers, the nearest course, Club de Golf Málaga Parador, is 31 kilometers away. Public transport is available with 13 lines and 50 stops in the vicinity, providing connections to Málaga City. There are several EV charging points nearby (3.8 km).
| Malaga-Costa del Sol (AGP) | 34 km |
| Gibraltar (GIB) | 127 km |
Source: OpenStreetMap, Google Maps
The location enjoys an average annual temperature of 19.4°C with 3,898 hours of historical sunshine per year. This climate supports an outdoor lifestyle for most of the year. The elevation of 19 meters above sea level and flat topography contribute to a favorable microclimate. The swimming season extends for six months. The presence of various parks and the beach nearby reinforces the connection with outdoor space.
Source: Open-Meteo (2020–2025 average)
The coastline of the Costa del Sol is directly accessible, with Playa de Almayate at 1.3 kilometers distance. For watersports and marinas, Puerto Deportivo Caleta de Vélez is located 5.8 kilometers away. Beyond beach activities, the region offers sports facilities like Centro Deportivo VALS (2.7 km) and various swimming pools. The presence of 20 horse stables on the property itself distinguishes this project as a unique spot for equestrian enthusiasts.
Source: OpenStreetMap
Within the Costa del Sol, Almayate is located in the Axarquía region, east of Málaga City. It balances the tourist intensity of Torremolinos and Benalmádena with the quieter coastal areas further east. The proximity to Torre del Mar (3 km) ensures urban dynamism, while the plot remains rural enough for agricultural or equestrian activities.
| Month | Avg. Temperature | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| January | 12.6°C | 64 mm |
| February | 13.0°C | 64 mm |
| March | 14.8°C | 48 mm |
| April | 16.8°C | 32 mm |
| May | 19.1°C | 26 mm |
| June | 22.9°C | 6 mm |
| July | 25.9°C | 1 mm |
| August | 26.4°C | 1 mm |
| September | 23.6°C | 6 mm |
| October | 19.8°C | 44 mm |
| November | 16.1°C | 73 mm |
| December | 13.4°C | 70 mm |
Ref: VL179336
Source: Wikipedia, Wikidata, INE, Junta de Andalucía
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