Hesperia has completed the purchase of the five‑star La Zambra hotel on Spain’s Costa del Sol, acquiring it from Intriva Capital. The transaction supports the investor’s push into the high‑end market and expands its Andalusian footprint.
The deal was sealed earlier this week after a standard due‑diligence process.
Deal specifics and property profile
Originally opened in 1986 as the Byblos Hotel, the resort quickly became a haunt for European royalty and entertainers. Its location between Málaga and Marbella places it on a hill flanked by two Robert Trent Jones‑designed golf courses.
Following a major overhaul led by the Esteva i Esteva studio, the venue reopened in 2022 under its current name, offering 197 rooms and suites. Guests can also enjoy a 2,000 sqm spa modeled on traditional Andalusian hammams.
Four dining concepts—Picador, Bamboleo, Palmito and La Bartola—serve international and regional cuisine. The property operates under The Unbound Collection brand managed by Hyatt.
“It combines an extraordinary history, an exceptional location and enormous potential for value creation,” said Jordi Ferrer, chief executive of the acquiring group. “We are very proud to welcome it into the Hesperia Group.”
In practice, the addition gives the company a ready‑made luxury platform that can attract affluent travelers seeking a blend of golf, wellness and fine dining. The existing brand affiliation with Hyatt should help maintain high occupancy rates while the new owners fine‑tune the guest experience.
Related: Inversiones Ortega acquires Seville office building from Helvetia
Financial backdrop and growth strategy
The acquisition arrives as the group reports its strongest fiscal year to date. 2025 closed with a turnover of €206 million and a record profit of €38 million.
First‑half 2026 figures show a turnover of €105 million, a 7 % rise over the same period a year earlier. The upward trend suggests the company can sustain investment in premium assets.
Portfolio holdings now total 22 properties across Spain, managed through the Hesperia World arm. Brands in the mix include the group’s own label as well as Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt and Secrets.
Legal counsel for the buyer came from Garrigues, while Colliers advised on the transaction. Both firms confirmed the process proceeded without major regulatory hurdles.
Analysts note that the timing aligns with a broader resurgence in Mediterranean tourism, driven by strong demand for upscale accommodations.
Looking ahead, the investor plans to leverage the new resort’s golf and spa amenities to draw both leisure and corporate guests, aiming to cement its status among Spain’s top luxury destinations.
