Overseas buyers love the whole length of the Costa Blanca – all 200km of it – for its enviable combination of sun, sea and sand. But one town, Orihuela, in the southern Costa Blanca, stands out for being particularly beloved by international buyers. Orihuela is a town a little inland while Orihuela Costa is a short drive away. Looking at both, here, we offer 7 reasons why Orihuela is such a hit.
1. Glorious weather
With 325 days of sunshine a year and an annual average temperature of 20°C, Orihuela guarantees you a big dose of vitamin D. On a typical day in June through to September, you can expect temperatures to be in the mid to high twenties. Although you may want to steer clear of the sun between midday and 3pm, time for a siesta! At the night, the temperature does not drop to below 15 degrees. While the temperature goes down in October, the water is still warm enough to swim and its much warmer than in northern Europe. Come December, Orihuela feels a mild winter bite, with an average daily maximum of 15 degrees. By March, the temperature has perked up even more.
2. Traveling there isn’t a trouble
Orihuela is served by Alicante airport. The quickest way to get there is via a 30 minute drive. But it is also possible to get a low-priced bus or train, though the journey will be longer. Alicante airport has budget-friendly flights to the UK and beyond throughout the year.
3. Blue Flag beaches
With 629, Spain has more Blue Flag beaches than any other country. A Blue Flag recognises the cleanliness, safety and accessibility of a beach. The Orihuela Costa boasts of multiple, such as Campoamor Beach, Cabo Roig and Punta Prima Beach. Nearby, is also the beach town of Torrevieja, which has its own rose-tinted lake.
4. Great golf
With oiver 300 days of sunshine, you can really make the most of the golf!
If your visions of retirement or downtime involve you on a sunny golf course, then Orihuela is the place for you. Villamartin, Campoamor and Las Ramblas are particular favourites.
5. La Zenia Boulevard
If you are a fan of shopping until you drop, you will adore owning a home in Orihuela. This is because Orihuela is home to the largest shopping centre in the whole province of Alicante, Zenia Boulevard. With 150 shops, you will find your favourite Highstreet brands, such as Zara and H&M. It has plenty of eateries, a bowling alley and an arcade.
6. There’s nature too!
The beautiful Sierra de Orihuela.
If you like to detox from your shopping days with a walk, other than a stroll along the beach, you can also visit the gorgeous Sierra de Orihuela mountains. Great for cycling and hiking.
7. A well-established expat community
There’s nothing like a friendly face to make your transition to Spain smoother. And if your Spanish is a little lacking, you might find it easier to find that friendly face in a sea of British ones. A recent study by the Express found that Orihuela has the highest proportion of British residents than anywhere else in Spain. One in eight hold a UK passport. These expats can tell you practical advice like where to locate the best fish and chips is. It also means also means that there is a greater chance of finding employment and a school, should you so want to.
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