Get to Know Us
FBD Holdings Roots
Founded in 1969 by Irish farmers, FBD Holdings began as Farmers Business Developments, a cooperative created to provide reliable insurance tailored to agricultural needs.
Its initial focus was on farm insurance, but it quickly expanded to include life insurance, corporate insurance, and financial services, reflecting the growing needs of rural communities.
In 1988, the various entities were consolidated under the holding company FBD Holdings plc, which was then floated on the Irish Stock Exchange, marking its transition into a major player in Ireland’s financial landscape
Today, FBD is one of Ireland’s largest property and casualty insurers, serving farmers, individuals, and businesses through its main subsidiary, FBD Insurance plc.
It operates 34 branch offices across Ireland and employs over 900 people, with its headquarters in Dublin.
FBD’s international footprint includes its investment in FBD Hotels & Resorts, notably in La Cala Golf Resort in Mijas, Spain. This move into hospitality began in the late 1980s and has grown into a flagship development, blending luxury tourism with real estate.
FBD Holdings is a well-established and reputable company, known for its integrity and long-standing commitment to excellence across insurance and hospitality sectors.
La Cala Resort Heritage
In the late 1980s, FBD Hotels & Resorts acquired 1,000 acres of rugged farmland in the foothills of Mijas, with the dream of creating a 54-hole golf resort and hotel.
The terrain was so challenging that initial surveys had to be done by helicopter, and a 5 km access road was built, including three underground tunnels to allow local goat farmers to continue herding across the land.
Despite the difficulty, FBD had already invested in the Sunset Beach Club in Benalmádena and saw potential in creating something extraordinary.
Then came the transformation:
The first golf course, Campo Asia, opened in 1990, followed by Campo América in the mid-90s, Campo Europa in 2005 and our new 9 holes refurbished The Short Course in 2025.
The 107-room hotel was completed in 1996, and a luxury spa was added in 2005, solidifying La Cala’s reputation as a premier destination
The golf courses were designed by Cabell B. Robinson, a renowned architect who had just left the Robert Trent Jones organization. He admitted the terrain was so extreme that he thought, “I hope I know what I’m doing.”
Today, La Cala Resort is a flagship of FBD’s Spanish operations, and they’ve continued expanding through partnerships like the one with the British developer Taylor Wimpey since 2014, developing residential complexes within the resort.
In 2024, La Cala was named Spain’s Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), a testament to its enduring quality and commitment to innovation.
Meet our team
Behind every home, a team that lives La Cala Resort as much as you will.
Elena
With over 20 years at La Cala Resort, Elena has deep knowledge of the local market and Costa del Sol’s evolution. Her experience allows her to confidently guide you through every step of buying or investing, showing both the current state and future potential of each property.
Her interior design training adds extra value: Elena helps you visualize each property’s true potential, advising on layout, natural light, finishes, and improvements, so you see not just the home as it is, but what it could become for you or as a long-term investment.
She speaks Spanish and English
Nicole
Originally from Austria, Nicole’s strong background in international sales and marketing gives her a global view of the property market. This is especially helpful if you’re buying from abroad, comparing European markets, or tracking Costa del Sol investment trends.
Her energy and professionalism inspire confidence from the start. Nicole combines enthusiasm with strategic advice, understanding your needs and guiding you to the property that fits your lifestyle and investment goals.
She speaks German, English and Spanish
Nieves
With over ten years at La Cala Resort and experience with major developers, Nieves offers technical expertise that ensures security and transparency for clients. She anticipates challenges and provides clear solutions throughout the buying or selling process.
Known for her empathy and organization, Nieves listens carefully to clients’ needs, managing every detail. With her, your real estate experience will be smooth, well-managed, and stress-free, giving you peace of mind.
She speaks Spanish, English and French.
Sara
Trained in Spain and the Netherlands, Sara brings a fresh, international perspective to the property market, ideal for clients seeking a modern approach to living and investing on the Costa del Sol. She understands international clients and offers a clear, straightforward experience.
Sara is known for her sensitivity and analytical skills, expertly matching your needs with a curated selection of properties. With her, you’ll feel confident and supported from first contact to key handover.
She speaks Spanish and English.
