The most popular place to live in Sotogrande is on the waterfront. However, most of the waterfront is already occupied and it seemed impossible that new properties which overlooked the water could be built.

Not deterred by this, Berna set out to solve the problem, with the result that the waterfront was further extended into the land by excavating a large open area and letting the water in. A number of residential island communities were created, amongst which the development known as Isla Tortuga stands out.

Isla Tortuga is a gated community set in the new waterfront area of the Sotogrande Marina. Entrance is by bridge to the mainland and the urbanization is set round an internal garden area with a communal pool. The complex consists of 52 luxurious one- to four-bedroomed apartments and duplexes. many of which benefit from an uninterrupted view to the south, taking in Gibraltar and the African coastline behind. Owners' boats can be moored on the island - a big plus point in this marine environment.

The residences themselves are distributed over four floors plus attics and range from onebedroomed apartments of 83 sq metres plus 43 sq metres of terraces to four-bedroomed duplexes of 280 sq metres plus 147 sq metres of terraces. All residences have at least one underground parking space. Prices range from 36 million to 116 million pesetas (approx 216,500 to 697,000 euros).

The complex has been designed to the highest specifications and the residences are equipped with thermal climate control for both heating and cooling. All telephone and televisual equipment has already been installed. For security, there is a porter's lodge and a 24-hour guard service. An additional feature is the presence of an interior alarm with volume detector in every apartment; these are connected to the porter's lodge for complete peace of mind when you are not at home. Each apartment benefits from a strongbox and there are motorised aluminium roller blinds in living rooms and bedrooms. All windows have 'Mallorquina' style aluminium lacquered shutters.

In addition to the swimming pool for the use of residents, more then half the units have either their own private pool or, in the case of penthouses, their own exterior jacuzzi. The central garden area has planted areas embellished with several pergolas to provide shade. Entrance porches are finished with banded marble, with vertical facings in stucco. A lawn extends from the base of the building to the waterside with its mooring facilities.

The residences have cream marble flooring in the living areas, with Travertino marble in the main bathroom and glazed tiles in the kitchen. The tiles are complimented by matching skirting boards and inset banding. Exterior areas have terracotta tiling and skirting. Kitchens have been fully fitted in wood, with granite counter top, and with top-quality electro-domestics. Bathrooms have Roca porcelain and taps and marble counter tops and wall panelling; the main bathroom has Travertino marble and a Roca hydro-massage tub.

The spacious and comfortable living areas and the generous terraces, combined with the tranquillity of island living, yet so close to the thriving social life the area has to offer, make Isla Tortuga a very interesting development.

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