In 1990, Michael Douglas bought a $3.5 million Spanish estate: Inside his 159-year-old Mallorca home with a wine cellar, golf simulator and home cinema

For Hollywood star Michael Douglas, luxury is not just about owning a spectacular property. Sometimes, it is about finding a place where the world feels quieter. His sprawling Spanish estate, S’Estaca, offers exactly that, with historic stone buildings, sweeping Mediterranean views and plenty of space to escape the attention that comes with decades in the film industry.Douglas purchased the property in 1990 with his then-wife, Diandra Luker, for a reported $3.5 million. Located near Valldemossa on the island of Mallorca, the 190-acre estate has since become a retreat that he shares with his wife, actress Catherine Zeta-Jones. While its wine cellar, swimming pool and private entertainment spaces make it an impressive celebrity home, its real attraction appears to be the privacy and connection with nature.Michael Douglas’ 159-year-old home overlooks the Mediterranean SeaThe main residence at S’Estaca dates back to 1867, long before Douglas became one of Hollywood’s most recognisable actors. Its history is closely associated with Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria, who developed the property after falling in love with Mallorca’s landscape.In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, the actor offered a glimpse into the estate and what makes it special to him. He described enjoying the natural surroundings, peaceful views and privacy that the property provides.One particularly personal detail stands out. Douglas has a favourite fuchsia-coloured armchair positioned beside an open window facing the sea. It is an understated feature in a home filled with impressive amenities, but it captures the appeal of the property: a comfortable place to sit, watch the water and enjoy a slower pace of life.The estate’s Mediterranean setting also distinguishes it from a conventional Hollywood mansion. Rather than being defined solely by elaborate interiors, S’Estaca draws much of its character from the surrounding mountains, greenery and coastline.Five apartments, two cottages and space for guestsS’Estaca is not simply one large house. The estate includes five apartments and two cottages, creating several separate living spaces across the grounds. According to Francis York's property profile, the buildings can accommodate up to 20 guests.The layout makes the property suitable for extended family stays and gatherings with friends, while allowing guests to enjoy their own space. Its amenities include a library, games room, gym, heated swimming pool and outdoor kitchen.The estate has also undergone substantial renovation since Douglas acquired it. Francis York reports that the actor spent approximately $7 million on restoration and improvements, modernising the historic buildings while retaining their distinctive character.The result is a blend of old-world architecture and contemporary comfort. The property offers the scale expected of a celebrity retreat without losing the charm of a traditional Mediterranean estate.A wine cellar with a surprising Hollywood twistOne of S’Estaca’s most unusual features is its multifunctional wine cellar. According to the People report, the space contains a TrackMan golf simulator, allowing Douglas to practise his game indoors. It also doubles as a home cinema.The combination makes the cellar more than a traditional storage space. It brings together two very different leisure activities in one private setting, reflecting how the historic estate has been adapted to suit modern tastes.Outside, the property has its own vineyards, vegetable garden, almond trees and olive trees. Francis York’s profile also notes that the vineyard produced locally recognised wine.These features give S’Estaca a distinctly rural atmosphere. Alongside the swimming pool and entertainment facilities, the gardens and cultivated land offer another way to enjoy the property beyond its interiors. The estate is also described as having a spring-water well and a power generator, adding to its independence from conventional services.Why did Michael Douglas once try to sell his Mallorca estate?Despite its appeal, S’Estaca has not always been a permanent fixture in Douglas’ plans. According to Architectural Digest's report on the property, the estate was first listed for sale in 2014 at around $60 million. It subsequently returned to the market at a lower asking price, but the sale did not materialise.The property was taken off the market in 2020, according to Francis York’s account of its listing history. Earlier reports also documented the complicated period when Michael Douglas and Luker shared the estate following their divorce.Today, S’Estaca remains notable for more than its reported purchase price or celebrity ownership. Its 19th-century origins, secluded location and mix of historic charm and modern amenities give it a character that few conventional luxury homes can replicate.What makes Michael Douglas feel special about his Mallorca home which is not just its size or luxury. He loves to enjoy the sea views and spend time surrounded by nature, away from his busy life in HollywoodGet the latest Bollywood & Entertainment News, and more. Download the TOI app.Give your child the gift of confidence! Claim your exclusive TOI Masterclass spot today!