Rich celebrities such as Shakira, actors like Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio and businessmen Richard Branson all share one thing in common – they own a private island.
Most of these are found across the Atlantic in destinations such as Florida or the Caribbean, like Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands which is entirely owned by Richard Branson.
However, Spain has its own collection of private islands which attract the mega-rich with their opulence and climate.
In fact, of the 179 islands Spain has within its territorial boundary and overseas possessions, 12 are private islands.
Below are four of Spain’s most impressive, revealed by The Olive Press – owned by the likes of Russian oligarchs, and enjoyed by some of the world’s most famous celebs.
Sa Ferradura, Ibiza
The “epitome” of luxury, a week on the exclusive Sa Ferradura island, just over 13 miles from central Ibiza, costs an eye-watering £207,800 to £249,400 for up to 12 other guests.
Owned by Russian oligarch Mikhail Prokhorov – who is currently engaged in a spat with Putin – the haven has been enjoyed by the rich and famous, including Lionel Messi, Cesc Fabregas and Elon Musk.
Guests are picked up in blacked out cars and driven across rocky terrain to arrive at the villa.
Set over 3.5 hectares, it houses a bar, spa, an infinity pool, a lagoon and a gym after being kitted out with an expensive four-year renovation.
Tagomago, Ibiza
Just minutes from the “playground of Ibiza”, this private island of Tagomago provides a refuge from the hustle and bustle.
The ultra-modern single property comes with its own personal jetty, pool, jacuzzi, helipad, professional grade kitchen, a spa, panoramic terraces and chartering services. Spread over 600,000 square metres, the island offers an intimate experience just 900 metres from Ibiza.
It is even possible to contract the ultimate party experience, with a yacht day, a night at Ibiza’s most exclusive nightclub, Pacha, or dinner at some of the area’s finest restaurants.
It reportedly costs some €25,000 (£20,700) a night to stay and it last sold for €150 million (£124.7 million).
This island is popular with celebs including Cristiano Ronaldo, Justin Bieber and Liz Hurley and is a top destination for luxury weddings.
However, the island has also faced significant controversy – Manager and long-time partner of Spanish actress Norma Deval, German entrepreneur Matthias Khün was sentenced to six months in prison plus a fine of €10,800 (£8,900) for building on the island. Construction works on the Tagomago were carried out without permission and licenses, tainting a Natural Area of Special Interest.
Isla Mayor, Murcia
In the middle of the Mar Menor lagoon lies the 94-hectare volcanic island of Isla Mayor.
Also known as Isla del Baron, the island takes its name from the Baron of Benifayo, who built a neomudejar-style (a type of Moorish Rival architecture) palace on the summit of the long-dead volcano.
The island is known for its unique plant and birdlife, including rare Chamaerops.
In nearby San Pedro del Pinatar, the Baron built another palace which is now the town’s Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum.
Isla del Burguillo, Avila
Hidden in a valley of mountains and forests lies the mysterious island Burguillo, a tiny islet in the centre of the Burguillo reservoir, home to a magnificent castle surrounded by defensive walls.
Parts of the stunning fortress can be rented from as little as €340 (£282), but to be the king of the castle, you need to cough up at least €1,300 (£1,080).
Up to 10 people can live out their mediaeval fantasies by staying over at the stronghold, with an additional 38 spaces available for glamping. They also host weddings, parties and other events.
If you’re more likely to have lived below stairs, you can also visit with a £8.30 guided tour.
