Lupin Lodge, located in the South Bay hills at 20600 Aldercroft Heights in Los Gatos, October 2023.
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 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.
“Lupin Lodge has an extensive use permit, ideal location, gorgeous park-like grounds and views,” according to the listing.
The lodge offers 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 the biggest 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.”
After her husband Glyn Stout passed away in 2015, Lori Kay became the sole owner and operator of the lodge. Despite a dedicated and skilled staff, keeping up with everything gradually became a significant burden.
“It’s my health and it’s a lot to keep an eye on,” she said in an October interview with this news organization. “I have to deal with 38 agencies in terms of paying taxes, compliance, regulations, and paperwork. I have a great staff. But I’m just one person.”
While the coronavirus sent people fleeing from restaurants and offices, the pandemic spurred increased visits and sales for the nude resort.
“There’s been a big uptick in business because of the pandemic,” Stout said. “People want to go hiking and go outside. People have a great chance to connect here after being so isolated.”
Lupin Lodge’s future isn’t certain, including whether it will continue as a nude resort.
The resort might not be on the market very long. In the past, multiple would-be buyers have emerged with unsolicited offers, according to Stout.
“It’s a spectacular place, a beautiful property and a great community,” Stout said.
