There continues to be an appetite among investors for luxury real estate in Spain, one agency has revealed.

Lucas Fox International Properties announced this week that 2011 was its "most successful operational year to date", with the firm citing its strong client base and portfolio of desirable assets among the factors that have helped it perform well.

Aimar Valls, head of commercial and investment property at the organisation, commented: "In the last year we have received a dramatic rise in both the quantity and quality of enquiries for commercial and investment property."

He added real estate in central Barcelona is particularly sought after, with hotel developments and tourist apartment rentals among the main targets for investors.

Director of Lucas Fox Alex Vaughan highlighted the company's strong position at the start of 2012, explaining that more than 5,000 active buyers have registered with the firm.

Interest in Spanish property is coming from investors based all over the world, including those in Russia, China, Scandinavia and the US, he added.

Earlier this month, International Property Success stressed Marbella and Murcia are among the top locations to consider when searching for a real estate investment in Spain.