Flawlessly passionate and brimming with Old World charm, very few regions in Europe boast such wealth of artistic and cultural heritage as Andalusia. It is a region of contrasts: historic cities, whitewashed villages, stunning coastline, the fertile valleys of the Guadalquivir River and several mountain ranges, where Europe’s most southerly ski resort is located. With 900 kilometres of beautiful coastline, the largest European desert, the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada and several UNESCO World Heritage sites, Andalusia has an enormous variety to offer international lifestyle property buyers.
It is larger than countries such as Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria and Switzerland. Nearly one-fifth of its territory is covered by protected nature areas – including the emblematic Doñana National Park and Sierra Nevada National Park that both have received the Biosphere Reserve designation by UNESCO. Other protected areas to be found here are the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve in Almería and the Sierra de Grazalema Mountains in Cadiz.
Lifestyle choice is the biggest driver but so is security; buyers from countries where security is a concern are happy to park their money in Spain. The majority of property buyers come from the UK and Ireland, as well as from Russia, Middle East, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Morocco, Germany, France, Belgium and Switzerland.
For decades, Andalusia has enjoyed a reputation as a fantastic vacation home and second-home destination. One of Andalusia’s biggest appeals is the unrivalled quality of life on offer. Global property buyers are delighted by its year-round sunshine, stunning countryside, gorgeous beaches, fascinating history and spectacular fiestas, plus easy access, low cost of living and its friendly, easy-going atmosphere.
With an average of more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Andalusia is one of Europe’s sunniest regions. Clear skies and pleasant temperatures seem never-ending. Rural Andalusia boasts miles of rugged coastline, outstanding mountainous areas and stunning pine forest. With landscape and climate like this, Andalusia is a favourite playground for those in search of outdoor adventure.
Andalusia possesses an efficient transportation infrastructure for fast and convenient access to any part of Spain, Europe and beyond. Nine out of ten Andalusia residents live within 25 minutes of a motorway. Highways and dual carriageways are linked to all of the region’s urban areas. As well, there is high-speed rail service from Seville, Málaga and Córdoba to Madrid, with travel time of about 2½ hours. There are international airports in Málaga and Seville and four domestic airports in Almería, Córdoba, Granada and Jerez de la Frontera. Slightly farther afield, Gibraltar and Faro, Portugal, also offer international flights.
With an abundance of excellent international schools, children may benefit from a world-class education and enviable lifestyle. There are over 30 international schools serving Andalusia with a variety of national curriculums, such as British, French and German, and, in the case of secondary schools, international diplomas such as the Baccalaureate.
With its colourful fusion of fascinating cities, ancient architecture and varied terrain, Andalusia is historically enchanting and culturally captivating. It is truly a region that has it all and it is therefore no surprise that Andalusia real estate has long been the choice for expatriates and retirees from the world over.
