With its temperate climate and miles of golden, sandy beaches, the Costa del Sol in Andalusia, Spain has long been one of the most popular destinations for wealthy British expats looking to start a new life in the sun. With some spectacular luxury properties on offer in the region and an excellent standard of living to enjoy, it’s easy to see why.
Once a haven of small fishing villages, the area has grown significantly over the past 100 years. From the cosmopolitan appeal of the region’s capital city, Malaga, to the luxury of trendy Marbella, there’s something here for everyone, whether it’s successful young professionals, growing families or retiring couples seeking a slice of the good life.
Despite Brexit, relocating to Andalusia is still a very real possibility. Spain is currently offering golden visas to British expats investing a minimum of 500,000 Euros in luxury real estate or depositing at least one million Euros into a Spanish bank account. So, if you thought the dream of an idyllic Spanish lifestyle was long since dead, then think again.
Offering a varied pace of life along the coast and an excellent quality of life with plenty of opportunities for socialising, employment and relaxation, we asked the experts at Breezom, leaders in new-build luxury real estate on the Costa del Sol, to share the four biggest reasons to consider making the move in 2023.
The great weather
The Costa del Sol isn’t just a popular destination for British expats moving to Spain, but for holidaymakers too, and that’s because it enjoys long, hot summers and pleasant weather for much of the rest of the year. Its Mediterranean climate means the weather is perfect for sunning yourself on the beach from May to September, with temperatures averaging 30 degrees Celsius during the day.
Also, spring and autumn tend to bring an abundance of bright, sunny periods while winters are mild and cold days rare. Most winter days will be above 10 degrees, and given that the season feels much shorter than it does in the UK, that means you can enjoy spending time outside for much more of the year without feeling the chill.
Miles of breath-taking coastline
Another reason holidaymakers and expats alike flock to Andalusia is the seemingly endless coastline, which comprises long, sandy golden beach after long, golden sandy beach. There are more than 125 in total, from big, busy bays to quiet, hidden coves, so if you’re eager to dodge the masses during the tourist season, then you’ll still be able to find the privacy you crave if you know where to look.
Lapped by the warm waves of the Mediterranean Sea, the Costa del Sol’s beaches are the perfect place to cool off in the sea or partake in some water sports. During the winter months, you’ll get them all to yourself to enjoy peaceful walks, or to simply sit and watch the waves crash against the shore.
A great choice of luxury properties
From plush flats to sprawling villas, Andalusia is home to some spectacular luxury real estate, and the prices are pretty good compared to in the UK and even elsewhere in mainland Europe. Whether you’ve been dreaming of spectacular sea views or a secluded mountain hideaway, you’ll no doubt find it here, and as demand continues to surge, so too does the amount of choice.
There are a host of new properties popping up in and around Malaga, as well as further around the coast, which means modern architecture and design and a plenty of covetable contemporary features like swimming pools, fitness centres and cinema rooms are all on the table.
A laid-back Spanish lifestyle
Although Malaga and many of the other hot spots along the Costa del Sol are well-developed and offer many international restaurants, bars and shops, it’s still possible to enjoy a slice of the authentic Spanish lifestyle. Away from the main tourist areas you can find authentic places to eat, drink and shop with the locals.
Tasty tapas bars, quaint wine cellars and pretty towns and villages serving up a heady dose of laid-back Spanish living are some of the best reasons to move here. You’re unlikely to ever uncover this side of life as a tourist, but when making a permanent move, you’ll get to know all the hidden gems, and all the best-kept secrets the region has to offer.
