The Costa Blanca is one of the most beautiful coasts in Spain, a land of endless sandy beaches and secluded rocky coves. The northern and southern parts of the Costa Blanca differ from each other with landscape, development, and real estate prices. In this article, we will talk about the best cities/towns to live in the north of the Costa Blanca – that part of the coast, which stretches from the provincial capital, Alicante to the border with Valencia.
The north of the Costa Blanca is mountainous, greener and more picturesque. On the one hand, the high rocky shore makes it possible to build in such a way that the residential complexes are placed on terraces without blocking views to each other, because most of the houses and apartments offer panoramic views of the coast and the sea. On the other hand, steep slopes and roads require the presence of your own transport, because not everyone is able to сlimb them regularly.
The north of the Costa Blanca is loved and chosen for its nature, as well as a huge selection of luxury housing: it is this part of the coast where the most expensive and luxurious urbanizations and residential complexes are located. In addition, there is still a lot of new construction under way here, so you can find great properties directly from developers. Also, the north of the Costa Blanca will seem like a paradise for lovers of nature, sports and mountain walks. It is not without reason that some of the most interesting hiking trails of varying degrees of complexity and length are held here.
It is also worth noting the excellent infrastructure of the region: all towns and resorts of the coast are connected by a network of highways and motorways, running public transport – buses, trams and electric trains. In addition, almost every town has a rich history, culture and authentic cuisine. Do not forget about winemaking, which is especially developed in this part of the coast.
Besides natural attractions, there are many shopping malls and entertainment centers in the north of the Costa Blanca: there is a whole network of theme parks in the Benidorm area, as well as the magnificent Aitana Safari Park located in the mountains beyond Benidorm.
In our article, we will move from Alicante, from south to north. And the first interesting town on our way will be Muchamiel. Then we will talk about Busot, Villajoyosa, Finestrat, Benidorm, La Nucia, Polop, Altea, Calpe, Benissa, Moraira, Benitachell, Javea and Dénia.
The Town of Benidorm in the North of the Costa Blanca
Benidorm is the most popular resort and entertainment capital of the Costa Blanca, located 43 km from the center of Alicante (50 minutes by car).
- Population: 69,118 people (according to municipality data as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 55 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 147 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,198 €.
Benidorm is a seaside resort with skyscrapers and magnificent sandy beaches, a cosmopolitan centre of the La Marina Baixa region that attracts tourists from all over Europe and the world. Day and night, life and fun are in full swing here. Young people party at clubs and discos, older people enjoy shopping and beach holidays, families with children relax in theme parks (Terra Natura, Terra Mítica and Mundomar).
Benidorm is also famous for its excellent infrastructure and modern buildings. High-rise apartments with panoramic sea views deserve special attention. Housing in the area of Playa de Poniente and Playa de Levante is in the greatest demand. But, it is worth noting that there is nowhere for an apple to fall on these beaches in the summer, so many vacationers prefer to go beyond the city limits.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Playa de Poniente – 2,950 €/m2,
- Pueblo Poniente – 1,942 €/m2,
- Centro Urbano – 1,680 €/m2,
- Playa de Levante – 3,289 €/m2,
- Pueblo Levante – 1,988 m2,
- Rincón de Loix – 2,163 €/m2,
- Puerto – 2,361 €/m2.
Rincón de Loix district is divided into three microdisricts: Sierra Helada, Rincón Bajo and Rincón Alto. The first one is Sierra Helada where two of the most famous theme parks – Aqualandia and Mundomar are placed, and the second one is Rincón Bajo where the largest concert hall of the Costa Blanca – Benidorm Palace and the casino Casino Mediterraneo are. In addition, on the territory of Sierra Helada, there is an observation deck, from where the entire city is clearly visible.
The Town of Finestrat in the North of the Costa Blanca
Finestrat and surroundings is a center of luxury housing, placed just 13 km from Benidorm and 40 km from the center of Alicante (50 minutes by car).
- Population: 7,402 (according to the municipality data as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 52 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 157 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,500 €.
Finestrat is a small municipality located on a hill outside Benidorm at the foot of the Sierra Cortina ridge. The historical center is located 13 km from the coast, but the most prestigious urbanizations are located much closer – 3-5 km from the sea and the beach. Rapidly developing and being built up in recent years, Finestrat is very popular with foreign buyers (the share of registered foreigners has come close to 50%). One of the districts of the municipality – Cala de Finestrat descends to the very sea and the sandy beach of the same name.
Leading construction companies of the Costa Blanca have turned a modest town into a center of elite development in a few years. Some of the best options on the costal – bungalows, cottages and villas on the coast – all these can be found here.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Finestrat Pueblo – 1,810 €/m2,
- Golf Bahía – 3,312 €/m2,
- Balcón de Finestrat-Terra Marina – 2,216 €/m2,
- Cala de Finestrat – 2,116 €/m2.
Finestrat is an oasis of silence and tranquility near the noisy and ebullient Benidorm. Excellent infrastructure adds comfort to residents: shopping centers, supermarkets, as well as theme parks are located nearby. Convenient exits to the highway and roads allow to reach the sea or neighboring resorts in a matter of minutes.
The old town center is located 13 km from the coast at the foot of Mount Puig Campana, whose peak rises to 1,410 m above sea level. The layout of the old part of the municipality is typical for the hinterland: narrow steep streets and alleys, low houses pressed together, adjoining roofs – everything is imbued with the spirit of old authentic Spain.
Sights include the walls of the old Moorish fortress, the watchtower, the Santísimo Cristo del Remedio chapel, and the El Castell fortress of the XIII century.
Closer to the coast, there are modern neighborhoods with expensive residential complexes. Finestrat is still under active construction. The hallmark of the municipality is incredibly beautiful views of Benidorm, the coast and the sea. The best property options can be found in the Sierra Cortina and Golf Bahía urbanizations, as well as near the sea in the Cala de Finestrat area.
The Town of Altea in the North of the Costa Blanca
Altea is one of the most popular resorts in the north of the Costa Blanca, located 58 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 22,657 people (according to municipality data for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 71 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 138 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,573 €.
Altea is considered to be the most beautiful and authentic resort of the Costa Blanca. For many decades it was known as the bohemian and artistic capital of the coast, served as a haven for young and ambitious artists, sculptors, potters and jewelers, musicians, writers and poets. Even today, Altea is full of galleries, art salons, workshops and studios. The status of the cultural capital has been retained by the town to this day.
Altea is interesting in terms of its architecture. High-rise buildings are prohibited here, the maximum permitted height of buildings is 4 floors. Therefore, from whatever point of the town you survey the surroundings, not a single high-rise building will disturb the architectural harmony. If you look from the highest point, you can see how whitewashed houses with tiled roofs, located closely to each other smoothly descend to the sea.
At the highest point of Altea, there is the historic town centre and its main symbol – the church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo with blue and white domes. There are also remains of the old fortress wall. Another attraction of Altea is its old steep streets, immersed in the colors of bougainvillea. Walking around the town, you should definitely visit the embankment, where handicraft markets are regularly held. The best fish restaurants in this resort are concentrated in the old port area – Port d’Altea.
Altea is famous for its sandy and pebble beaches, annually awarded with blue flags for cleanliness and quality. The most beautiful beaches are La Roda, Cap Negret, La Olla, Mascarat and Cap Blanc. Lovers of secluded relaxation will appreciate the beauty of the small bays of La Cala del Soio, La Barreta and La Barra.
Also, we cannot talk about Altea without mentioning the fashionable urbanization in its northern part – Altea Hills. And if in the town, real estate is represented mainly by apartments, small bungalows and townhouses, then Altea Hills is an area of elite housing built up with expensive residential complexes and villas, many of which have magnificent sea views. In addition, Altea has own wooden Orthodox church – the Church of the Archangel Michael.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Altea Hills – 2,940 €/m2,
- Zona de Mascarat – 2,808 €/m2,
- Zona l’Olla – 2,435 €/m2,
- Altea la Vella – 2,448 €/m2,
- Altea de Pueblo – 2,324 €/m2.
Altea is very convenient to live in. Here, there is not as noisy and crowded as in neighboring Benidorm, but very comfortable. And the infrastructure of the municipality does not cause complaints. Altea (or rather, its expensive suburbs) is very often chosen for obtaining a Golden Visa, because there is a huge selection of villas of any size, layout and style.
The Town of Calpe in the North of the Costa Blanca
Calpe is another popular resort town in the north of the Costa Blanca, located 63 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 23,530 people (according to the National Statistics Institute, as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 77 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 130 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,562 €.
Calpe is a picturesque town, whose hallmark is the rock – El Penyal d’Ifac, which attracts climbers and lovers of difficult mountain routes from all around. The rock goes into the sea for almost a kilometer and divides the coast into two bays with magnificent sandy beaches – Playa del Arenal-Bol and Platja de la Fossa. In addition to the two main beaches in Calpe, there are 12 small beaches and cozy bays, as well as a small lagoon where flamingos nest.
Like neighboring Altea, Calpe is famous for its fish exchange and fish restaurants, where lovers of good seafood cuisine come from all over the province. By the way, it is easy to reach Calpe from other towns and cities of the coast: by private transport, you can drive on the N-332 highway and the A-7 and AP-7 highways, there are also bus and rail links with all major locations.
In Calpe, unlike Altea, high-rise buildings are allowed, so, a wide variety of properties are presented on the real estate market. New construction is underway in the town, including areas near the beaches. The closer to the sea, the higher the cost of apartments. The Arenal-Bol beach area is highly valued. The situation is different with houses and villas: the most interesting and expensive property objects are located a little further from the center and urban beaches, in the areas of Cometa-Carrió, Maryvilla and Canuta.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Cometa-Carrió – 2,902 €/m2,
- Calpe Pueblo – 1,810 €/m2,
- Playa de Fossa-Levante – 2,761 €/m2,
- Playa Arenal-Bol – 3,601 €/m2,
- Gargasindi – 2,365 €/m2,
- Canuta – 2,625 €/m2,
- Puerto – 2,673 €/m2,
- Manzanera-Tosal – 2,387 €/m2,
- Maryvilla – 2,622 €/m2,
- Oltamar-Cucarres – 2,591 €/m2
The choice of property objects on the real estate market of Calpe is always large, therefor if you wish, you can find a suitable property for yourself with an ideal price/quality ratio.
The Town of Jávea in the North of the Costa Blanca
Javea is a very pretty and quiet Mediterranean resort in the north of the Costa Blanca, situated in 86 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 27,983 people (according to the National Statistics Institute, as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 99 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 119 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,845 €.
Javea is located on the very coast, on a narrow strip between the sea and the mountains. The mountains protect the town from cold western winds, preserving a special microclimate in the Javea zone without sudden temperature changes and with minimal rainfall.
The old town is typical for this part of Spain: narrow, tangled streets are built up with low-rise houses touching with tiled roofs. Among the architectural sights, it is worth mentioning the church of Sant Bertomeu de Xàbia and the church of Nuestra Señora de Loreto, as well as a whole complex of old mills standing on a hillock above the town.
Javea is an expensive town in terms of buying property. Here you can find everything from a studio to a villa, but the price will be higher than the average one along the coast. The Portichol – Balcón al Mar area is the most prestigious.
Here the prices for many villas exceed 5 million €.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Puerto – 3,512 €/m2,
- Partida Tosal – Zona dels Castellans – 2,793 €/m2,
- Montgó – Ermita – 2,325 €/m2,
- Centro Ciudad – 2,132 €/m2,
- Montañar-El Arenal – 3,115 €/m2,
- Partida Comunes-Adsubia – 2,841 €/m2,
- Balcón al Mar-Capt Martí – 3,155 €/m2.
Javea is bordered by a natural park – Parc Natural del Montgó, where many interesting routes have been laid, giving the opportunity to enjoy beautiful views, and there are several caves. Fans of more calm and measured holidays will appreciate the beauty of local beaches and bays: Cala Tango, Playa de la Grava, Playa Primer Muntanyar/Benissero, Platja de l’Arenal, Playa del Segon Montañar, La Caleta de dins, Cala Sardinera, Platja del Portixol and Cala del Portichol.
The Town of Denia in the North of the Costa Blanca
Denia is the northernmost town of the Costa Blanca, located 91 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 42,953 (according to the National Statistics Institute, as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante airport: 104 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 113 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: €2,282.
By local standards, Denia is a fairly large resort, which is also an important transport hub. But the main pride of Denia is its title of the Gastronomic Capital of Spain, received in 2015.
The historical centre of the town is a great place for leisurely walks. From the walls of the ancient castle, built back in the time of the Arabs, offering beautiful views of Denia and its surroundings. From the south, the town closely adjoins the Montgó Natural Park, which we mentioned above in the description of Javea.
Denia has good infrastructure, including transport. From here, there are ferries to the Balearic Islands – Formentera, Ibiza and Mallorca.
A large selection of properties and affordable prices attract buyers from all over Europe. Everything can be found here: apartments, bungalows, townhouses, semi-detached and detached cottages and, of course, luxury villas.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Les Marines/Las Marinas – 2,728 €/m2,
- La Xara — La Sella — Jesús Pobre – 2,171 €/m2,
- La Pedrera-Vessanes – 2,233 €/m2,
- Centro Urbano – 1,782 €/m2,
- El Puerto – 2,502 €/m2,
- Saladar – 1,531 €/m2,
- El Montgó – 2,379 €/m2,
- Les Rotes/Las Rotas – 2,762 €/m2,
- Devesses – Monte Pego – 2,661 €/m2.
Inexpensive properties (mainly apartments in the old housing stock) should be looked for in the central area and in the adjacent Saladar. The most expensive houses are located in the southern part of the town, near the natural park, in the Les Rotes/Las Rotas area.
In Denia, active construction is underway, and almost all properties are located very close to the sea. The areas of Les Marines/Las Marinas and Devesses – Monte Pego are the most intensively built up.
The Town of Polop in the North of the Costa Blanca
Polop is another town in the north of the Costa Blanca that deserves special attention. It is located about 13 km from the beaches of Altea, 15 km from the beaches of Benidorm, and 55 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 5,069 people (according to municipality data as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 69 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 157 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,225 €.
Polop is a town with a rich history, strategically significant in the Middle Ages, having survived both the times of prosperity and the times of almost complete desolation. Today, it is a cozy and quiet town, spread out on a hillside at the foot of the old fortress. Polop is surrounded on two sides by mountain ranges (Ponitx and Puig Campana), as well as two shallow gorges, which turns it into a kind of oasis hidden from civilization. However, this does not affect the amenities in any way: the town has excellent infrastructure and a good road network. Also, there are some of the best international colleges in the province of Alicante here – Elian’s British School and AIS International School.
If you want to change the regularity, silence and tranquility of Polop to the active rhythm of the coast, you can jump into the car: 25 minutes, and you are near the sea.
In the town itself, many sights have been preserved: the castle-fortress, the church of St. Peter the Apostle, the square Plaça dels Xorros with drinking fountains, the restored ancient cemetery. As in neighboring La Nucia, lovers of mountain walks will find many interesting routes for themselves in Polop.
Polop is also one of the centers of medlar cultivation, so you can buy all kinds of sweet delights and delicacies here: tinctures and liqueurs, honey and marmalade, jams and canned food – sweet teeth will definitely like it.
Property in Polop is represented by all types and price categories, but individual cottages and villas with sea views are in the greatest demand. Housing can be found on the secondary market, and there are many offers from developers. A small new cottage will cost the buyer about 200,000 €, a spacious villa is about 500,000 €. In recent years, the interest in Polop in the part of foreign investors has been steadily growing, so we should expect prices to rise. But now, it is the perfect time to buy property here.
The Town of Benissa in the North of the Costa Blanca
The expensive resort town of Benissa is located in the Marina Alta region, 9.5 km from the sea and 72 km from the center of Alicante..
- Population: 11,462 people (according to municipality data for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 86 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 120 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 2,943 €.
Benissa is one of the most expensive resort towns in the north of the Costa Blanca. Moraira, Benitachell and Benissa form the zone of the most prestigious and luxurious real estate of the coast. The relief of the coast allows to conduct the construction in such a way as to combine privacy with panoramic views of the sea and the coast.
Benissa is very conveniently located: all significant neighboring towns/cities can be reached in 10-30 minutes. To get the beach from the historical centre will take about 5 minutes by car. But the most prestigious areas are located closer to the sea, descending by terraces to the beach of La Fustera itself.
Benissa is loved and appreciated for its beautiful nature, picturesque landscapes and the opportunity to engage in various sports all year round: from hiking in the mountains to diving. The town has several sports clubs and schools: horse riding, tennis, diving, sailing, as well as a golf club.
The beach is only one here – Playa de La Fustera, but there are many small and very picturesque bays: Cala La Calalga, Cala Baladrar, Cala del Mallorquí, Cala les Bassetes, Cala Pinets, Cala de la Llobella and Cala Advocat.
In the vicinity of Benissa, hiking trails of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty are laid. One part of the routes runs along the coast, the other one comes along the picturesque foothills.
Historical sights include the building of the Town Hall, the Puríssima Xiqueta church, old mansions, which currently house the museum and a branch of the University of Alicante, the Franciscan monastery and a seminary. Local cuisine and wines can also be attributed to the attractions: in Benissa, indigenous grape varieties are still grown and excellent white and red wines are produced.
As for the real estate market, it is very heterogeneous. In the old center, one can find relatively inexpensive properties (mostly old housing stock). However, the closer to the sea, the higher prices spike.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Benissa pueblo – 2,239 €/m2,
- La Fustera – 3,489 €/m2,
- Cala Advocat – Baladrar – 3,429 €/m2,
- La Viña – Montemar – San Jaime – 2,672 €/m2.
People go to Benissa not for modest housing, not for small apartments and townhouses. Investors choose modern residential complexes with expensive apartments, as well as luxury cottages and villas.
The Town of Moraira in the North of the Costa Blanca
Moraira is a small coastal town that has gained international popularity due to its building. Here there are some of the most expensive properties in the north of the Costa Blanca. It is 81 km from Moraira to the center of Alicante.
- Population: 1,592 people (according to the National Statistics Institute, as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 94 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 128 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: €3,484.
Like the entire north of the Costa Blanca, the surroundings of Moraira are mountainous, and this should be taken into account when choosing housing. With high probability, you will need to have personal transport for a comfortable life. However, this small inconvenience will more than pay off with the beauty and picturesqueness of the area. As in neighboring municipalities, most of the development in Moraira is carried out on the slopes of the mountains, therefore, almost all houses boast breathtaking views from their windows.
In the vicinity of Moraira, there are several wonderful beaches and bays: Cala L’Andragó, Playa Moraira, Les Platgetes, Platja de l’Ampolla, Cala del Portitxolet, Cala El Portet and Playa del Portet.
The town has preserved a small old fortress Castillo de Moraira, and there is also a very pretty wildlife park Marjal del Senillar, which is a chain of lakes – a favorite nesting place for many species of birds. Beautiful views of the coast can be admired from Cap d’Or in the northern part of the municipality.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- El Portet-Pla del Mar – 3,762 €/m2,
- Paichi – 3,389 €/m2,
- Casco Urbano – 3,396 €/m2,
- Benimeit-Tabaira – 3,474 €/m2,
- Pinar de Advocat-Cometa – 3,425 €/m2,
- Moravit-Cap Blanc – 3,406 €/m2.
Demand for real estate in Moraira stable keeps at a consistently high level, and prices continue to rise steadily, despite any crises. Many villas can be bought at the project stage with a choice of different finishes and interior design.
The Town of Benitachell in the North of the Costa Blanca
Benitachell is a small town in the north of the Costa Blanca, located 79 km from the center of Alicante, known for its luxurious residential complexes.
- Population: 4,447 (according to the National Statistics Institute, as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 92 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 126 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 3.015 €.
Benitachell is a cosmopolitan town. More than 50% of its population are foreigners who appreciate the beauty of this part of the coast, the excellent climate, infrastructure and convenience of living. The most famous urbanization of the municipality is Cumbre del Sol (translated from Spanish as «Sunny Peak») – a huge residential area that stretches on both sides of the mountain pass of the same name. Benitachell continues to be actively built up in response to the stable demand for apartments and villas.
The old part of the town is a typical Spanish village with narrow streets where small houses are crowded. The main attractions of the town are the Church of St. Mary Magdalene (Parròquia de Santa Maria Magdalena) and the Oratori Jaume Llobell Chapel.
But still, the nature of Benitachell and its beautiful coast deserve more attention. For a leisurely beach holiday, there are several picturesque bays: Cala del Moraig, Cala de Llebeig and Cala dels Testos. Fans of active pastime will enjoy hiking trails of different lengths and varying degrees of difficulty, laid along the entire coast of the municipality (if desired, they can be combined). Part of the routes runs along the very edge of the cliff at an altitude of up to 100 m above the sea, rewarding the daredevils with breathtaking views. And if you climb to the top of Puig Llorença – the highest point of the ridge of the Sierra de la Llorença, then from here, in clear weather, you can see Ibiza.
Luxury real estate is Benitachell’s calling card. The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Centro – 2,148 €/m2,
- Les Fonts – 2,434 €/m2,
- Alcassar – 2,266 €/m2,
- Calistros – 1,895 €/m2,
- Cumbre del Sol – 3,295 €/m2.
Cumbre del Sol is not just an urbanization, but a «town within a town» – a residential area with complete infrastructure. There are bars and restaurants, shops and supermarkets, pharmacies and medical centers, tennis and golf clubs, as well as the British international college – The Lady Elizabeth School. In Cumbre del Sol, it is convenient not only to relax, but also to live permanently. The main buyers of properties are Europeans and Russians, who appreciate urbanization for the maximum level of security and comfort, as well as for convenient layout, peace and quiet.
The Town of Busot in the North of the Costa Blanca
Busot is another interesting resort located in the foothills, 10 km from the sea and 22 km from the center of Alicante (30 minutes by car).
- Population: 3,207 people (according to municipality data as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 34 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 170 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 1,509 €.
Busot is a compromise between the desire to live near the mountains, surrounded by wild nature, and the unwillingness to be located far from the sea. By the way, the sea and beaches of El Campello can be reached from Busot just in 20 minutes. At the same time, the mountains tightly surround the town, protecting it from cold western winds and creating a special mild microclimate. These Cabeçó d’Or mountains are the main attraction of Busot. Not far from the town, there are the famous Canelobre caves, and in the vicinity, there are numerous hiking and cycling routes.
Thus, Busot is ideal for sports and nature lovers, as well as for everyone who appreciates clean air and good ecology.
In addition to hiking and cycling, here you can be involved in equestrian sports, tennis, mountaineering and speleology, yoga, golf, and all kinds of water sports, since the sea is within easy reach.
The popularity of Busot is evidenced by the fact that almost 35% of foreigners live here, mostly Europeans. The main attractions of the town include the chapel Ermita de San José, the church de Sant Lorenç (XVI century), the Museum of Ethnic Music and the castle towering over the town on a hill (currently under restoration). Tasting tours to local wineries are also very popular in Busot.
Property in Busot is much cheaper than in neighboring towns located near the sea. There are both resale properties and new buildings on the market – mainly bungalows, townhouses and cottages. Also, in the vicinity of Busot you can find excellent villas and even agricultural estates.
The Town of Villajoyosa in the North of the Costa Blanca
Villajoyosa is a town of cute colorful houses, recognized as the chocolate capital of Spain. Villajoyosa is located on the very shore near the beach of the same name – Playa de Villajoyosa, just 32 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 34,684 people (according to municipality data as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 49 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 157 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2021: 1,840 €.
Villajoyosa is a picturesque resort that greets tourists at the entrance to the town with the aroma of chocolate. There is the most famous Spanish chocolate factory «Valor» here, where the Chocolate Museum is operating, and which can be visited with a guided tour. Do you like chocolate churros? If yes, then you definitely need to eat them in Villajoyosa – the best ones on the entire coast are prepared here. And, by the way, every summer the town hosts the Xocolatíssima chocolate festival with competitions and tastings.
Another attraction of the resort are colorful fishermen’s houses lined along the waterfront. The urban legend says that this has been the custom since ancient times – the fishermen returning to the shore could see from afar and unmistakably recognize their houses, painted in different colors.
And, speaking of sights, one cannot fail to mention the ancient olive tree La Olivera Grossa, which is 1,400 years old. This is the oldest tree in the province of Alicante, absolutely alive and still bearing fruit.
Like many costal towns, Villajoyosa has been inhabited since time immemorial. Roman settlements were replaced by the Iberian settlements, and regular pirate raids forced the inhabitants to rise fortress walls and watchtowers, some of which have survived to this day. Among the architectural monuments, it is also worth noting the Roman burial tower of San Jose, the Masonic mansion of Villa Giacomina, the church-fortress of St. Virgin of the Asuncion and the Archaeological Museum.
Villajoisa is only 12 km from Benidorm’s center and its theme parks. Therefore, arriving on any day, you can reach the main entertainment center in a matter of minutes and plunge into its turmoil. Villajoyosa fits for a comfortable life perfectly: it is quiet, calm, and the tourist flow gains intensity only in July-August.
Villajoyosa is famous for its beaches: Playa Centro, Playa del Bol Nou, Playa Torres, Playa el Paradís, Playa Estudiantes – Tío Roig – Varadero, Playa Carritxal, Playa Puntes del Moro, as well as picturesque bays: La Caleta, L’Esparelló, Raco del Conill and Xarco.
Properties here are more expensive than in Muchamiel and Busot, but cheaper than in Benidorm. New construction is actively underway in Villajoyosa, there are several interesting projects on the first line of the sea. Yes, and on the secondary market you can find absolutely any type of housing: from a small studio to a luxurious villa.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Platja Vila Joiosa – 2.503 €/m2,
- Poble Nou – Montiboli – 2.223 €/m2,
- Plans – Gasparot – 1.773 €/m2,
- Centro Urbano – 1.267 €/m2,
- El Secanet – Hacienda del Sol – 1.580 €/m2.
The most interesting properties are concentrated in the area of the beaches, and on the other side of the N-332 highway, more budget options can be found. Thus, Villajoyosa is a great choice for those who are looking for accommodation at a relatively low price close to Benidorm, Alicante and the International Airport.
The Town of Muchamiel (Mutxamel) in the North of the Costa Blanca
Muchamiel is a small municipality located some distance from the sea and about 11 km from the center of Alicante (20 minutes by car).
- Population: 25,679 people (according to the National Statistics Institute as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 24 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 172 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 1,333 €.
Muchamiel is bordered by El Campello, which is famous for its magnificent sandy beach Muchavista. The climate of the municipality is mild Mediterranean, with moderately cool winters, hot summers and low rainfall. It is about 6 km to the sea, and the beach that is not a minus and does not make Muchamiel less attractive for tourists and investors.
Housing prices in Muchamiel are affordable, the housing stock is represented mainly by low-rise buildings. Both small apartments and individual cottages and villas can be found here, at a good price.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- Centro – 1,212 €/m2,
- Bonalba-Cotoveta – 1,757 €/m2,
- La Huerta – 1,306 €/m2,
- Valle del Sol – 1,349 €/m2,
- Almajada-Ravel – 1,380 €/m2.
The main attractions of the town are the church of St. Salvador, the historical district of Ravalet and the street of Plaza de Nova, where religious and festive processions always originate, the monastery of San Francisco of the early 17th century, the palace and gardens of Peñaserrada, the chapels of Montserrat, Calvary and Sant Antoni, and the museum of Byzantine Art.
The gastronomy of Muchamiel is represented mainly by Mediterranean cuisine: fresh vegetables, fish, seafood. And, of course, in any restaurant you will be offered a rich wine list, including excellent local dry and fortified wines.
So what is a good about Muchamiel? First of all, there are peace and tranquility and, at the same time, proximity to Alicante and the beaches of El Campello. And, secondly, there are excellent infrastructure and affordable real estate prices.
The Town of La Nucia in the North of the Costa Blanca
La Nucia is another wonderful place for lovers of outdoor activities, sports and pristine nature. This town is located 7 km from Altea and its beaches, and 51 km from the center of Alicante.
- Population: 18,108 (according to municipality data as for 2021).
- Distance from the Alicante Airport: 65 km.
- Distance from the Valencia Airport: 152 km.
- Average cost per square meter of housing in September 2022: 1,563 €.
La Nucia is located in a very picturesque place – in a valley surrounded by mountains, pine forests and fruit plantations. The old part of the town is placed on a hill, offering beautiful views of the surroundings. The sea and the beaches of Benidorm and Altea can be reached by car in a matter of minutes.
Foreigners are very fond of La Nucia: more than 40% of the inhabitants of the municipality are European citizens who have already found their piece of paradise on the Costa Blanca. Everything is successfully combined here – a good climate, and rich nature, and the opportunity to practice all kinds of sports all year round, and proximity to the sea, and, of course, peace and quiet away from the noise and heavy traffic of the coast. In the surroundings, there are hiking trails of various lengths and degrees of difficulty. One of the most interesting leads to the top of Monte del Calvario, which offers panoramic views of the northern part of the Costa Blanca.
La Nucia has excellent infrastructure, a network of roads connects the town with other coastal resorts. Among the main attractions, it is worth noting a cozy park with the waterfalls of Fuente la Favara. If you spend 15-20 minutes on the road, you can get to the ancient Guadalest or the waterfalls of Las Fuentes del Algar. In the town itself, the chapel of San Vicente Ferrer, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de los Musicos, as well as the observation deck on Portilla Avenue are worth to visit.
Property in La Nucia is in great demand, and first of all, due to low prices. The price per square meter differs by 2-3 times when compared with Altea and Benidorm. That is why the demand for housing here is keeping at a high level, and the municipality continues to be actively built up.
The distribution of prices by districts is as follows:
- El Tossal-Bello Horizonte – 1,951 €/m2,
- La Nucia Pueblo – 1,317 €/m2,
- Coloma – 1,626 €/m2,
- Barranco Hondo-Varadero – 1,571 €/m2.
Being undervalued, La Nucia continues to attract foreign investors with a good choice of properties, quality of construction and affordable prices. The most popular housing is spacious bungalow, apartments in modern residential complexes, as well as villas of various sizes: from small cozy houses to luxurious mansions.
In our catalog, you will find the best real estate offers in the north of the Costa Blanca. On all your questions regarding the purchase of property in Spain, you can contact our specialists.
