On the shores of the Mediterranean Sea is Alicante, Spain. The sunrises from the highest peaks of the province and the sunset baths in the beaches of the coast of Alicante, are two of the factors that make any foreigner who decides to live in the Costa Blanca fall in love with Alicante.
More than 374,618 foreigners have decided to start a second life in this Spanish paradise. Many digital portals and international media have placed Alicante among the best destinations for retirement or investment in Spain. The reasons? Below.
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Michelin star gastronomy
Did you know that Alicante is home to the best pizza maker in the world and the best sommelier in the Valencian Community? In addition, the area has more than 20 Michelin stars, making it one of the most awarded areas in Spain, like BonAmb in Jávea or Quique Dacosta in Dénia.
The whole province of Alicante has a rich gastronomic tradition. One of its main characteristics is the use of fresh and quality ingredients, such as fruits, seafood and fish. In addition, it is very common to find extra virgin olive oil in all its recipes.
Some of its typical dishes are arroz a banda, rice cooked in fish and seafood broth and “puchero”, a meat and vegetable stew. In addition, the area is also known for its wines, especially white wines. Made from Moscatel and Xarel-lo grape varieties, you can find them in many prestigious restaurants in the area.
As for desserts, the most famous are those made with almonds. For example, cakes made with Turrón de Jijona.
In short, the gastronomy of the province of Alicante is characterized by its fresh and authentic flavor.
Culture and traditions in the streets
The province of Alicante is pure history. In every corner of the streets of the different municipalities, you can find part of the tradition and culture that characterizes this area.
It has a rich and diverse historical heritage. We can find numerous buildings and monuments of great interest, such as the Cathedral of San Nicolas de Bari, the Castle of Santa Barbara, the Palmeral de Elche, among others. In addition, traditional festivals are celebrated in the area, such as the Bonfires of San Juan or the Moors and Christians.
Music also plays a very important role in the culture of the province, being one of the main artistic expressions of the region. Every year music festivals of all styles are held, attracting artists of high national and international level. In addition, the province’s traditional music includes Valencian folklore and popular music such as the fandango.
In terms of art, Alicante has a long tradition in the field of painting, sculpture and architecture. Among the most outstanding artists are José Benlliure and Julio González.
Breathtaking landscapes
Waking up with a sunrise in the Mediterranean? Seeing the sea from breathtaking views? All this is possible in Alicante, as it has a wide variety of beautiful and attractive landscapes.
First of all, the coast of the province has several of the best beaches of fine sand and crystal clear water in Spain, such as Albufereta beach in Alicante or Cala Granadella in Javea.
For the more active and adventurous people, the province has different routes that will not leave anyone indifferent. For example, the Peñón d’Ifac Natural Park, with its impressive rock formations and its unique flora and fauna in Calpe. Or the route of the Sierra de Bernia, one of the most famous in the area.
Other of the most touristic points of the province is the Natural Park of the Salinas de Santa Pola or the Laguna Rosa de Torrevieja. In addition, La Vega Baja del Segura, with its crop fields and the Segura River, which meanders through the area.
In general, all the landscapes offered by the province of Alicante are ideal to enjoy nature in its purest state.
One of the best climates in the world
The WHO (World Health Organization) has rated the climate of the Costa Blanca as one of the healthiest in Europe. The combination of its clean air, tropical climate and sunshine for more than 300 days of the year, have a stimulating effect on both body and health.
The Costa Blanca has a Mediterranean climate with the lowest contrast in Spain. Rainfall tends to be scarce in this area of Spain, and the sun radiates its light almost all year round. In addition, frosts almost never occur and extreme heat is very rare. Winters are mild and dry and summers are pleasantly warm.
A reference accessibility
The province of Alicante has a wide variety of services with good accessibility. Therefore, we highlight:
- Its extensive public transport network includes buses, streetcars and trains, facilitating access to different cities in the area.
- It has an international airport that offers international flights and is considered one of the best connected in Europe.
- The health services are one of the best in the world, its hospitals and health centers have trained professionals who offer an excellent quality service.
- Last but not least, the province of Alicante offers a wide variety of leisure services: museums, theaters, cinemas and theme parks.
As you have seen, there are many factors that make Alicante an ideal city to invest, retire or have a second home. Now you can live where the sun is born. The Costa Blanca is waiting for you to start new adventures.