Los Gatos nude resort asking price tops $30 million: real estate agent
Lupin Lodge and nude resort nestled in hills totals 112 acres
LOS GATOS, CA — The asking price for a historic nudist resort in the Los Gatos hills exceeds $30 million, indicating a potential property transaction that could reveal information about the strength — or weakness — of the Bay Area real estate market.
Lupin Lodge has long been a draw for social nudity enthusiasts and naturists drawn to its pristine setting in the hills near Los Gatos.
The naturist resort, founded in 1935 on the site of an old winery forced to close due to Prohibition, has survived economic collapse, a world war, creditors, recessions, wildfires, and other adversity.
Lori Kay Stout has decided to leave the property she has owned and operated with her family since 1977.
According to a listing by Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno and Joe Pollifrone, a broker associate with Just Realty, the asking price for the property is $32.8 million.
For the property at 20600 Aldercroft Heights Road, that works out to about $292,900 per acre.
“Lupin Lodge has an extensive use permit, ideal location, gorgeous park-like grounds and views,” the listing states.
A swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, volleyball court, tennis court, petanque, basketball net, tetherball, pickleball, children’s playground, table tennis, books, puzzles, board games, and cable TV in the clubhouse lounge are among the many activities available at the lodge.
Despite the extensive amenities, Stout believes the natural setting near Lexington Reservoir, just off State Route 17, is the most appealing to visitors — and potential buyers.
“It’s really close to Los Gatos but you feel that it’s really remote with all of the redwood trees and old oaks,” Stout told me. “We only use a small portion of it.” The majority of the land is in excellent condition.”
Lori Kay became the sole owner and operator of the lodge after her husband Glyn Stout died in 2015. Keeping up with everything became a significant burden despite a dedicated and skilled staff.
“It’s my health, and there’s a lot to keep an eye on,” she told this news organization in an October interview. “I have to deal with 38 different agencies when it comes to taxes, compliance, regulations, and paperwork.” I have a fantastic team. But I am only one person.”
While the coronavirus forced people to flee restaurants and offices, the pandemic increased visits and sales to the nudist resort.
“There’s been a big uptick in business because of the pandemic,” Stout told reporters. “People want to go hiking and spend time outside. After being so isolated, people have a great opportunity to connect here.”
The future of Lupin Lodge is uncertain, including whether it will remain a nudist resort.
The resort may not be available for long. According to Stout, in the past, multiple would-be buyers have emerged with unsolicited offers.
“It’s a spectacular place, a beautiful property and a great community,” Stout told the Herald.
