LOS GATOS — The asking price for a historic nude resort in the Los Gatos hills tops $30 million, a potential property deal that might provide clues about the strength — or weakness — of the Bay Area real estate market.
Lupin Lodge for decades has been a magnet for social nudity enthusiasts and naturists who were drawn to its pristine setting that’s tucked away in the hills near Los Gatos.
Founded in 1935 on the site of an old winery that was forced to close due to Prohibition, the naturist resort has survived economic collapse, a world war, creditors, recessions, wildfires and other adversity.
Lori Kay Stout has decided to step away from the property that she and her family have owned and operated since 1977.
The asking price for the property is $32.8 million, according to a listing by Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno and Joe Pollifrone, a broker associate with Just Realty.
That works out to about $292,900 an acre for the property at 20600 Aldercroft Heights Road in Los Gatos.
“Lupin Lodge has an extensive use permit, ideal location, gorgeous park-like grounds and views,” according to the listing.
The lodge offers an many activities, including 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.
Yet while the amenities are extensive, Stout believes the natural setting near Lexington Reservoir just off State Route 17 is a big draw for visitors — and would-be 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 said. “We use only a small portion of it. Most of the acreage is pristine.”