Property News

Rafa Nadal Wins Another Match: Green Light for His Luxury Project on the Costa del Sol!

Rafa Nadal. A name synonymous with tenacity and excellence. But it appears the king of clay is ready to conquer new ground: the luxury real estate market of the Costa del Sol. The recent news causing a stir: alongside hotel magnate Abel Matutes Prats, the Manacor native has received the long-awaited ‘green light’ to build an ambitious residential complex of 50 high-end homes in Estepona, on one of the last prime seafront plots available in the area.

From Sport to Bricks and Mortar: A New Chapter for Nadal

Rafa Nadal’s foray, a figure with discipline and global success, into the Costa del Sol’s luxury real estate market is a significant move. His name, associated with an aspirational lifestyle and quality, perfectly fits the vision for this high-end development in such a sought-after location: The Costa del Sol.

The choice of the Costa del Sol, specifically this plot in Estepona – one of the last undeveloped seafront sites – underscores the project’s exclusivity. This coastline has for decades been a magnet for luxury tourism and investment, offering the ideal setting with its climate, golf courses, exclusive marinas, and prime services – a destination Nadal’s residences aim to join.

50 Dream Homes: Project Details

With the final urban planning approval now in effect for Estepona’s “Los Llanos” sector, the path is clear for construction to commence on approximately 50 exclusive luxury properties. This development is spearheaded by Palya Invest, with Palya Casa del Mar S.L. acting as the promoter. Hotel magnate Abel Matutes Prats and Rafael Nadal’s father, Sebastián Nadal Homar, are key figures in the venture’s corporate structure.

Situated on land acquired in 2019 for around €20 million – a site spanning just under 37,000 square metres – the project envisions a low-density ‘Mediterranean village’ concept designed to harmonise with the landscape.

Architectural plans prioritise preserving existing vegetation and limiting building heights, particularly for frontline units, to reduce visual and ecological impact. The residences themselves are planned to offer unparalleled luxury, featuring premium materials, advanced technology, remarkable views, private pools, and a suite of exclusive resident amenities, all aiming for the highest standards in high-end living.

The ‘Green Light’: A Crucial Step Forward

Rafa Nadal and his business partner Abel Matutes have officially received the long-awaited green light for their luxury development on the Costa del Sol. The approval, granted in late April 2025 by the relevant municipal authorities, marks a key turning point for the ambitious project.

This go-ahead confirms that all necessary urban planning, zoning, and environmental requirements have been successfully met. It’s a major milestone that allows the project—previously only a vision on paper—to move into the execution phase. After months of bureaucratic procedures and technical evaluations, the endorsement gives Nadal, Matutes, and their team the confidence and legal backing to proceed. The development, which aims to combine luxury living with sustainability and cutting-edge design, is expected to attract significant interest both nationally and internationally.

A Positive and Sustainable Impact

Beyond the economic and employment contribution to the area, the developers have agreed to cede land to complete the Senda Litoral (Coastal Path). This gesture, alongside the decision to reduce density and minimise visual and ecological impact, reflects a clear awareness of sustainable coastal development. Improvements to road and pedestrian access, including to the public beach, are also planned.

In summary, the approval of this project marks an exciting new chapter for Rafa Nadal. It’s the union of a global figure with a prime luxury destination, led by a solid structure and with a conscious approach. With the procedures overcome, eyes are now on the start of construction and the commercial launch. The match to build these elite residences on the Costa del Sol has begun!

By Adam Neale | Property News | May 17th, 2025