Andalusia Reduces Property Purchase Tax and Stamp Duty

Andalusia Reduces Property Purchase Tax and Stamp Duty

The Andalusian Government has approved a decree that includes a reduction in the property transfer tax (which is paid when buying and selling second-hand homes), so that the three rates currently set at 8, 9 and the 10% are now replaced by a flat rate of 7%. This reduction applies exclusively to the resale properties in Andalucia and does not affect new builts.

In addition, a small reduction in the tax on documented legal acts will also be applied, which will go from 1.5% to 1.2%. This is the Stamp Duty (AJD, Actos Jurídicos Documentados) which applies to both new build and resale properties.

The reduction of the property transfer tax (ITP, Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales) will take effect immediately once it is published in the Official Gazette of the Junta de Andalucía (BOJA). According to the calculations made by Vice President Marín, for a property of 180,000 euros, the fee to pay for the transfer tax is currently 14,400 euros, while, with the approved reduction, 12,600 euros will be paid… that is 1,800 euros less.

This calculation is where there is a 1% reduction in the property transfer tax. For higher value properties where the reduction in tax payable is 3%, the savings are much more substantial.

It is important to remember that this only applies to properties in Andalusia including the Costa del Sol. It does not apply to other popular destinations in Spain such as the Costa Blanca, the Balearics of Canary Islands.

Read the full article in Spanish here

Marbella’s First Passive House (Passivhaus)

Marbella’s First Passive House (Passivhaus)

MARBELLA’S first avant-garde luxury house that is designed and built under Passive House regulations and standards. This means it is environmentally friendly to an exceptionally high degree with a very low carbon footprint. Located just five minutes from the coast and ten minutes from Marbella, it is located in an exclusive gated community near La Zagaleta. It has breathtaking views that invite reflection and open spaces that make communication natural. Sustainability and sheer, unadulterated luxury are masterfully combined in this stunning villa in Marbella.

The exquisite design of the award-winning Marbella Villa is something to behold. Design is a concept, not a set of drawings. The true beauty of a design lies in how it works and feels, not just how it looks. It is all about ergonomic design. On top of that this lxury new villa has already won the 5-star award for Best in Spain, received the top award “Best Architecture Single Residence, Europe” from the International Property Awards.

The structure of the five bedroom, six bathroom villa does not detract in any way from the beauty of its natural surroundings, and it also allows its inhabitants to co-exist comfortably in areas designed for various activities, whether seeking solitude or quality time together. The villa takes advantage of the views down the valley towards the sea, especially the five principal living areas which directly face the coast. The high ceiling running into two floors, the lighting an imposing design element in itself and the large mural on the wall – it all adds to the splendour of this space. A perfectly symmetrical room with the ceiling lights redefining the sky and two warriors inviting us to look outwards – this is designer opulence at its best. The outside merges perfectly with the inside: the floor-to-ceiling window opens to provide direct access across a walkway to the vertical herb garden where, all year round, one can pick parsley, rosemary, mint, basil and other herbs, or in season, one can treat oneself to oranges and lemons in the mini orchard.

Energy efficiency is part of the essence of the Passive House concept, developed in the 1980’s in Germany in order to build houses with minimum energy consumption, and if at all possible, null consumption. The first Passive House was completed in 1991 in Darmstadt, Germany. Since then, the Passive House principle has proven itself many times over. Worldwide, there are now over 25,000 Passive Houses, 101 of which are in Spain, 6 in Andalucía and here is the one in Marbella. It is the world’s leading standard in energy efficient construction.The Passive House Standard means quality, comfort and energy efficiency, guaranteeing more than 75% saving on energy costs compared to a standard build. Thanks to the quality insulation and an efficient ventilation system, Passive House buildings remain warm on cold days and cool on warmer days.

Passive House a combination of the best quality insulation, windows and doors as well as careful design both to control the ventilation of the house, heat transfer through the structure and windows and providing shade to the living areas in the hottest part of the day, the certification guarantees the highest levels of energy efficiency in heating and cooling the house, reducing the energy demands by up to 90% – to a maximum of 15kW/m2/year.

Passive House is a building standard that is truly energy efficient, comfortable and affordable at the same time. It is not a brand name, but a tried and true construction concept that can be applied by anyone, anywhere. Yet, a Passive House is more than just a low-energy building:

Passive Houses allow for space heating and cooling related energy savings of up to 90% compared with typical building stock and over 75% compared to average new builds. Passive Houses use less than 1.5 l of oil or 1.5 m3 of gas to heat one square meter of living space for a year – substantially less than common “low-energy” buildings. Vast energy savings have been demonstrated in warm climates where typical buildings also require active cooling.

Passive Houses make efficient use of the sun, internal heat sources and heat recovery, rendering conventional heating systems unnecessary throughout even the coldest of winters. During warmer months, Passive Houses make use of passive cooling techniques such as strategic shading to keep comfortably cool.

Passive Houses are praised for the high level of comfort they offer. Internal surface temperatures vary little from indoor air temperatures, even in the face of extreme outdoor temperatures. Special windows and a building envelope consisting of a highly insulated roof and floor slab as well as highly insulated exterior walls keep the desired warmth in the house – or undesirable heat out.

A ventilation system imperceptibly supplies constant fresh air, making for superior air quality without unpleasant draughts. A highly efficient heat recovery unit allows for the heat contained in the exhaust air to be re-used.

For more information about this villa in Marbella or any other passive house/eco friendly houses on the Costa del Sol, please contact us.

Malaga is chosen by Forbes among 20 best European cities to live, invest and work

Malaga is chosen by Forbes among 20 best European cities to live, invest and work

Malaga is chosen by Forbes among 20 best European cities to live, invest and work.

The research by Forbes aimed to discover the most American-friendly destinations in Europe, those with the best quality of life, best internet connections for remote working so that you can keep your job in the U.S. or launch your online project and set up your business. The initial list consisted of 120 top European destinations.

Based on various criteria including the presence of an international school, quality of life, health care system, internet connection, proximity to airports with international flights, cost of living, active expat community and low crime rate, the Best European Destinations (EBD) organization has revealed the 20 finalists that included three destinations in Spain – Madrid, San Sebastian and Malaga. Malaga has ranked 10th place, whereas Madrid and San Sebastian second and forth respectively.

According to EBD, Spain is a country in constant evolution — dynamic, culturally incomparable and “a destination that will appeal to even the most demanding“. Sunnier than France, Spain also offers good health care and school systems. If you love Europe for its culture, openness, architecture, events, weddings, tradition or gastronomy, you will love Malaga. Sometimes associated mostly with sun and beaches, the city is much more than that. It has the highest concentration of museums per square kilometer in Europe, high quality of life, security, rich culture, good health care services and sun almost throughout the year. Malaga is family friendly and also very suitable for single digital nomads or couples, as well as retirees who wish to live an active, culturally rich and lively retirement. Open-minded and tolerant, Malaga also attracts gay expats. The city offers a variety of schools including the British School of Malaga and many public and private. Malaga is one of the Spanish destinations with the greatest tourist growth.

Priced to sell fast – Apartment for sale in Los Pacos, Fuengirola

Priced to sell fast – Apartment for sale in Los Pacos, Fuengirola

Location, location, location! Spacious duplex apartment for sale in the heart of the residential area of Los Pacos, Fuengirola!

This 3 bedroom duplex apartment in Fuengirola feels more like a townhouse and located inside a very authentic quiet urbanization right in the heart of Fuengirola Los Pacos area. Distributed over two levels, this apartment is sold unfurnished, in a good condition and was built in 2002. It features two terraces upstairs from the bedrooms with views over the communal areas and swimming pool. It has three good sized bedrooms each with fitted closets, the ceiling fans are installed in every room. The urbanization has a secure entrance from the Avenida Finlandia that is one of the main streets in the Los Pacos area. It is a very well kept urbanization with many people living here all year round. All the windows and terraces in this apartment look inside of the urbanization, therefore you can enjoy the peace and tranquility whilst being just next to the town centre. This is a place on the Costa del Sol where without a doubt you can live without a car. However, included in the price there is an underground parking space & storage room.

Apartment for sale Fuengirola

This gated urbanization is located literally a few steps away from the centre of Los Pacos and all the amenities are at your doorstep. You can walk to the beach in 13 minutes or take a bus down. The nearest train station is Los Boliches and is located 900 meters away from the apartment. You can reach the Malaga International airport by car within 20 minutes or take a direct train to the airport from Los Boliches train station.

DISTANCES:

Beach – 950 meters ( 13 minutes walk)
Cafes, bars, restaurants – 1 minute walk
Bus stop – 1 minute walk ( direct bus line will take you to Fuengirola, Town Hall, Los Boliches train station, Miramar shopping centre)
Finnish school – 3 min walk ( 250 meters away)
Malaga International Airport – 20 minutes by car
Marbella – less than 30 minutes drive by car

townhouse for sale fuengirola

Los Pacos neighbourhood has grown into quite a built up, self contained area. Very well connected by recent improvements to road infrastructure, many people of all nationalities are buying homes and holiday homes in this area. With its own schools, sports facilities, shops, cafes and restaurants, it is becoming more and more popular. It sits back from the coast and backs onto the Torreblanca neighbourhood and benefits from frequent bus service to Fuengirola Town centre. Its a lively International community that has not lost its Spanish charm. The recently opened Los Pacos Paddle Club adds another great amenity to the area.

For more information about this listing please check out here:

https://alphaestates.com/property/aem116

To see other listings of Alpha Estates Marbella please visit our website:

https://alphaestates.com/

New release – Spectacular new development in Malaga Town.

New release – Spectacular new development in Malaga Town.

Located in the vibrant city of Malaga, the heart of the Costa del Sol, this new Malaga development of apartments and penthouses, takes the dominant position in a residential urban real estate market in Southern Spain. Within just 5 minutes walk to the beach and 7 minutes walk to Malaga Port, this residential project represents a new concept that that combines tradition, functionality and ultimate comfort. Home, social life within community of residents, work space, leisure and quality of living join together within this new revolutionary concept.

Malaga is the fast growing, cosmopolitan and avant-garde city. This city of 600,000 inhabitants is transforming into a dynamic city full of life, adventure, and culture, with a grand plan in place for its continued development. Malaga has been nominated for a European Best Destination 2019. According to the nominee criteria, Malaga is a city “combining tradition and modernity, gastronomy, the beach and culture along with a world-class selection of museums”. Among the other 20 nominees were well-established tourist hotspots as Rome, Lisbon, Geneva and etc. Without a doubt, Malaga is on its way to a boom town!

Malaga is the gateway to the Costa del Sol, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas. It is the second most populous city of Andalucia and the sixth-largest in Spain. The opening of Gran Hotel Miramar in Malagueta, the first 5 star Gran Luxe Hotel in Malaga speaks volumes of the direction this city is taking. Art and Culture is at the centre for the continued growth, with Carmen Thyssen Museum and the Centre Pompidou Malaga, the first of its kind outside of France,taking centre stage. The investment opportunities in Malaga must definitely be considered, and those looking for a home, or second home in a city, it just cannot be overlooked. There are entertainment and gastronomy options to suit all tastes, not least in its newly redeveloped port. It even has its own ‘Malaga Eye’ Ferris wheel, reaching 100 metres in height. This is a place that must be considered by those looking to purchase on the Costa Del Sol, especially those looking for the buzz of city life, a La Liga football team to support, or a solid investment on the Costa Del Sol in terms of rentals and appreciation.

This new development in Malaga is born to establish new standards of high quality lifestyle within urban environment. The concept combines whole wish list of modern customers: impeccable design, optimization of the running costs, high quality finishes, state-of-the-art on-site facilities, common areas and spaces adapted to the new needs. This concept is far beyond an ordinary home or second residence. The buildin, that will be undergoing total renovation, has its own personality and superior qualities, both interior and exterior. This new Malaga project consists of 44 apartments, with 1 and 2 bedrooms, as well as 56 garaje parking spaces and storage rooms.

The communal areas here invite you to enjoy and appreaciate the climate of Southern Spain and its unique Mediterranean lifestyle. The swimming pool and chill-out areas is located on one of the rooftop terraces and is overlooking the new Park Europa. Two barbecue areas and a Gastro Bar space will be located on the other terrace. In addition, the building includes a state-of-the-art gym and a co-working space with views. All these facilities represent an important added value for your new home in Malaga.

This new project in Malaga is fully committed to the community lifestyle and comfort of its residents, creating areas that enhances personal relationships between them and promote healthy lifestyle. Opportunities such as this rarely come to the market.

SEND US YOUR INQUIRY FOR MORE INFORMATION:

[caldera_form id=”CF5b87d84e0b374″]

New exclusive listing in Duquesa Fairways

New exclusive listing in Duquesa Fairways

Extraordinary spacious and bright middle floor apartment located in the urbanization Duquesa Fairways.

This apartment has three good sized bedrooms, and two generous terraces with mountain, pool and garden view, entrance hall, 2 bathrooms where one of them recently has been refurbished. Thanks to the distrubucion, this apartment in Duquesa Fairways enjoys sun & shade aspects throughtout the day. Plenty of fitted wardrobes, plenty of space for storage – this property is perfect to add into your investment portfolio or have as a holiday home under the sun.

Despite the close proximity to the many attractions provided by this sought after area, this apartment is set in a private, gated complex, in peaceful surroundings amidst landscaped gardens and pools. It is located on the middle floor and can be accessed by the elevator from the underground parking area, where you have dedicated parking space and storage room. The urbanization is fully gated and has its communal gardens immaculately kept. As a resident you will appreciate the manicured gardens, two large swimming pools, area for kids – and all this inside the gated community.

Apartment for sale in Duquesa

Sold fully furnished, this property is ready to move in and has the following features:

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Air conditioning fully installed and functional
Cream marble floor in a perfect condition
Two terraces with north-west and south orientation
Ceiling fans intalled in all bedrooms
Plenty of fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms
Main bedroom en-suite
Underground parking + storage room

This apartment for sale has a superb location, within walking distance to a range of amenities, surrounded by Duquesa Golf, the picturesque Puerto de la Duquesa marina and the beautiful beaches stretching along this western side of the Costa del Sol.

– Distance to the beach – 18 minutes by foot
– Distance to the nearest shop – 8 minutes by foot
– Distance to Puerto de La Duquesa – 18 minutes by foot
– Distance to the nearest golf course – 3 minutes by car
– Distance to Malaga Airport – 1 hour 15 minutes by car
– Distance to Marbella – 40 minutes by car
– Distance to Gibraltar – 45 minutes by car

Nestling between Castillo de la Duquesa and San Luis de Sabinillas at the halfway point between Marbella and Gibraltar, Puerto de la Duquesa is considered to be one of the most attractive marinas in Europe and one of the Costa del Sol’s best kept secrets. Duquesa Port is a bustling community, with a marina used by leisure crafts that attract residents and visitors of all ages and nationalities. Inside the marina you will find plenty of restaurants overlooking the harbour and the beach. It is an ideal place to enjoy the time with your family all year round. Puerto de la Duquesa is a part of the traditional coastal town – Sabinillas. Here you will find many traditional spanish bars and tapar, schools, hospitals and etc.

Alpha Estates Marbella – We are always on top of the real estate market in Southern Spain

For more information about this or other similar listings you can get in touch with us:

Home

Covid-19 update 25th May of 2020 – International tourism to open in July

Covid-19 update 25th May of 2020 – International tourism to open in July

After a very strict lockdown in order to fight Covid-19, Spain is gradually returning to the new normality. To come out of the lockdown, Spain has implemented a four-phase plan designed to open up businesses and get people back to work gradually. Additionally, from July, Spain would once more be welcoming back foreign tourists as per the oficial announcement of Spanish prime minister.

Spanish daily newspaper El Pais (The Country) quotes the Socialist Party (PSOE) leader of saying the below to comment on the current situation in Spain:

“The hardest part is over; we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Now the epicenter has moved to other parts of the planet, as is happening, for example, on the American continent. The response of the Spanish people has been formidable. Everyone has fulfilled their mission, and they came together to deal with the epidemic.”

“The first achievement: to flatten the curve,” he continued. “The second achievement: when those who have recovered exceed new infections. The third achievement will be to reduce the spread of the virus as much as possible. Yesterday the reproduction rate was 0.20. Today we can say that we have achieved this not by luck, but with determination. We have taken the correct path. The Spanish people have forced the virus to retreat.”

We are looking forward to welcoming back soon the international tourism to Spain. Safety protocols from the government designed for the protection of our clients, staff members and collaborators, returning towards our business as usual will of course be implemented and followed.

Thank you to everyone for your support and collaboration through these difficult times and our best wishes to you and your families.

We look forward to seeing you soon on the Costa del Sol

Top 14 traditional Spanish Foods you must try on the Costa del Sol

Top 14 traditional Spanish Foods you must try on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol is famous for its beaches, mild climate… and fine dining by the Mediterranean. Either on the outdoor terrace of a restaurant or a chiringuito ( beach bar) by the sea, having grilled prawns or paella is a sort of ritual on the Costa del Sol.

Costa del Sol prides itself on its rich Andalusian cuisine influenced by Arabic, Roman and Phoenician cultures, as it was a popular maritime hub in the Mediterranean region drawing visitors from far and wide. Generally, Andalusian cuisine is based on a Mediterranean diet, with plenty of vegetables, fruits, olive oil, fine meat and fish.

Spanish cuisine is an explosion of colour, taste and passion; the southern coastal region of Andalusia has the most iconic Spanish cuisine. In addition, the great contrast of the landscape and climate here brings about a wonderful range of cuisine, rich in flavours and diversity.
 

1. Paella

Paella

Paella

Paella is one of the most popular dish in coastal areas of Spain and the Costa del Sol. There are three main types of paella: Paella Valenciana, Seafood paella and Paella mixta. Usually it is prepared with shrimps, squids, clams and white fist and in the Paella Mixta often added chicken. This saffron rice dish symbolizes the union and heritage of two important cultures – the Roman and the Arab and was born in the rural areas of Valencia around 15th and 16th centuries. Nourishing, vibrant, and served without pretension, paella has held a place of honor and practicality in for centuries.

 

2. Jamon Iberico

Jamon Iberico

Jamon Iberico

Jamon is a cured country ham produced in Spain. Jamon represents the finest of Spanish cuisine and this regional dish is tightly linked to culture and history of the country as a whole.
There are two primary types: Jamón serrano and Jamón ibérico. Present in all tapas bars, restaurants, and most Spanish homes, this delicious cured ham is a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy Jamon Iberico like a Spaniards with tomatoes and toast, or pair it with your favourite spanish wine.
 

3. Gaspacho

Gaspacho

Gaspacho

One of the most effective summer cooler and one of the most preferred andalusian starters – a cold Spanish soup made from tomatoes, cucumbers, red peppers and olive oil. Two popular Andalucian variations of these cold soup are Salmorejo popular in Cordoba (similar to gazpacho but thicker and contains only tomatoes as vegetables) and Ajoblanco popular in Granada ( white soup that has bread, almonds,olive oil and of course bread and garlic). Usually served as a starter or a drink with bread and with garnishes: hard-boiled egg, small pieces of cucumber, pepper, spring onion, cubes of jamon and so on.
 

4. Fritura Malagueña / Fried Fish

Pescaito Frito

Going to the Costa del Sol without trying fried fish would be like visiting the beach without going for a swim! Fritura Malagueña consists of the smaller seafood varieties, namely: small fish, crustaceans and shellfish that can be readily eaten, floured, crispy and golden, without worrying about any bones. Add a splash of lemon and taste the wide variety of fishes from Malaga’s coast. Typically eaten in local beach bars ( chiringuitos) where you can enjoy the freshest fish, Mediterranean breeze, sounds of waves and a glass of cold drink at the same time.
 

5. Churros

Churros

Churros

When you’re on the Costa del Sol, you’re bound to have churros at least once. Churros are a fried-dough pastry snack with a peculiar long form, fried until they become crunchy, and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. Fresh churros are meant to be savored for breakfast, dipped into thick hot chocolate or served with café con leche. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside and they have a flavor no one can resist!
 

6. Turron

Turron

Turron

Spanish nougat confection, typically made of honey, sugar, and egg white, with toasted almonds or other nuts, and usually shaped into either a rectangular tablet or a round cake. With a rich, sweet and nutty flavor, turrón may be hard and brittle, or soft and toffee-like. Color wise it can range from white to the deepest caramel. In its simplest, most traditional form, there are just three ingredients – almonds, honey and egg white.
 

7. Gambas Al Pil Pil

Prawns Pil Pil

Prawns Pil Pil

Prawns served with a spicy sauce are what the Andalusians know and love as gambas al pil-pil. The salsa is made up of a combination of garlic, paprika, chillies, and white wine. Cooked in an oven-proof dish, this starter arrives to your table sizzling. Served with masses of crusty bread, this is another must try on the Costa del Sol! Don’t forget to dip your bread in the sauce, and sit back and enjoy the Spanish life.
 

8. Tortilla

Tortilla

Tortilla

Spanish omelette, or literally Spanish tortilla, is a traditional dish from Spanish cuisine called tortilla española or tortilla de patatas. It is a big part of the cuisine of Spain. Along with jamon and olive oil, tortillas are probably amongst the most commonly eaten Spanish dishes in the world. Made of pan-fried potatoes and onion, it makes a delicious light vegetarian meal or an easy tapas dish.
 

9. Olives

Olives

Olives

Spain produces more than 250 different varieties of olives to be eaten whole or pressed into olive oil. Olives are served in Andalucia both whole and pitted. Whole olives are a favourite both as appetisers and in fresh salads. Healthy and delicious olive appetizer traditionally served in all beach bars along the coast. If you have never been huge fan of olives, we recommend you to give it another try!
 

10. Rabo de Toro

Rabo de Toro

Rabo de Toro

Spanish bull tail stew (rabo de toro estofado) is one of Spain’s most typical stews. Dating back to Roman times, rabo de toro is actually an Andalusian creation, supposedly inspired in Córdoba. It is an intensely flavoured dish with a rich garlicky sauce & soft beef. Delicious with potatoes!
 

11. Ensalada Malagueña / Malaga Salad

Malaga Salad

No salad is more representative of the beautiful coastal city of Malaga than the one that bears its name: Malaga style salad. It captures the essence of what Malaga and its terrain is, combining perfectly the taste of the sea and the fresh vegetable gardens. A summer dish due to its freshness that is full of strong and distinctive flavours and great example of Mediterranean food that allows you to make the most of the local produce in a healthy way. Made up of a potato base and accompanied by oranges, finely cut onion, bacalao-cod, hard-boiled eggs and green olives.
 

12. Tarta Malagueña

Tarta Malagueña

This cake, made with almonds and Malaga sweet wine – two of Malaga’s own specialities, as well as apricot jam, is sweet enough that you will only need to try a little slice. It is decorated on top with raisins (another one of the typical foods from Malaga) and thinly sliced almonds. It goes down perfectly with a cup of coffee and makes the perfect afternoon snack for when you need a bit of a sugar hit!
 

13. Pipirrana

Ensalada Pipirrana

This is another salad dish that is not only well loved in Malaga, but all over the region of Andalusia. It’s a cold salad made from finely chopped red pepper, green pepper, tomato, onion, olives, tuna, and mussels or other seafood dressed with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt – perfect for eating during our long, hot summers!
 

14. Boquerones – Anchovies

Boquerones Fritos

Number 14 on our list is the most important one! There is a colloquial meaning to boquerones in Malaga. It is an affectionate way of calling a Malaga proud native. Such as saying, “Antonio Banderas is a boqueron”. Don’t be surprised if you hear a local exclaim, “Soy Malagueño! Soy Boquerón!”
Two most popular types are Boquerones fritos Al Limon and Boquerones en Vinagre, and you will be sure to find them in every malagueño tapas bar.
Boquerones al vinagre are fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar or a mixture of vinegar and olive oil, and seasoned with garlic and parsley. Boquerones fritos Al Limon are a deep fried version of anchoives. Perfect alongside a bit of homemade alioli sauce!

Order boquerones with a caña of beer and you’ll be living the Andalusian lifestyle in no time!

Costa del Sol Spotlight: MIJAS COSTA

Costa del Sol Spotlight: MIJAS COSTA

Conveniently positioned between two major urban hubs of the Costa del Sol – Marbella and Malaga, Mijas Costa stretches 12 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. This is one of the largest resorts on the Costa del Sol and thanks to its uniquely convenient position, it has become one of the most popular areas to visit on the Costa del Sol and many choose this location to settle permanently.

Here you can find something for everyone: if you are attracted to the more fashionable and well known places there is the famous Olivia’s in La Cala de Mijas, where you can mingle with celebrities. On the other side of the coin, if you love tranquility and nature, the mountains offer great hiking routes with spectacular views over the coast. You need not look further than Mijas Pueblo – this typical pueblo blanco is filled with traditional Spanish activities, cuisine, and architecture.

La Cala De Mijas

If you are looking to discover Mijas Costa, we recommend you start with La Cala De Mijas. This is one of the biggest coastal resorts in Mijas and we love its great ambiance, sandy beaches and Andalusian fishing village feel mixed with a cosmopolitan touch. La Cala de Mijas has grown a lot in size in recent years, this will be clear to you when you see the amount of cranes around it and just freshly completed new developments of modern apartments and houses.

La Cala de Mijas is a town that offers a wide selection of typical Spanish restaurants and tapas bars, mixed with worldly choices – Chinese restaurants, Thai, Italian, French, Indian and the list goes on. Something to choose for everyone’s taste and pocket. If you are looking for something more glamorous, head towards the beach and you find there Olivia’s bar. Opened in 2015 by celebrities, by now it has become emblematic to La Cala de Mijas and it is one of the most glamorous places in La Cala de Mijas. Located beachfront, it is a stunning spot to enjoy a Mediterranean breeze, the sounds of waves while listening to jazz music and enjoying a fancy cocktail. With its panoramic views, this upscale restaurant brings a splash of glamour to La Cala de Mijas.

One thing residents and visitors love about La Cala de Mijas, is its new boardwalk. If you like strolling by the sea, stopping off at the many bars and restaurants along it, it offers an excursion in itself. The new La Cala boardwalk was completed by Mijas Town Hall in 2015, it is a 6km walk that ends 500 meters short of Cabopino passing through Calahonda. The boardwalk forms part of the Senda Litoral De Malaga (Malaga coastal path) The board walk has bar’s and restaurant’s along the way as it hugs the coastline.

La Cala de Mijas – Boardwalk

La Cala Golf Resort

Now head 6km inland to continue our Mijas discovery and visit La Cala Golf Resort. Even if you have never played golf in your life, and do not plan to start, La Cala Golf Resort is a home to one of the most spectacular Spa Hotels and Clubhouses in Mijas Costa. Here you feel theexclusive ambiance of the area, with manicured gardens and pavements, incredibly well maintained grounds designed with your enjoyment in mind – this is a sporting and relaxation mecca.

La Cala Golf Resort offers you a luxury golf and spa experience with three fantastic golf courses named after the continents ( Campo America, Campo Asia and Campo Europa) and a stunning club house with a spa and wellness centre, gymnasium and restaurant. It also has a host of top class sporting facilities, within its vast grounds. It is a wonderful place to have a round of golf in magnificent natural surroundings offering mountain and sea views, or choose a cooling dip after a luxurious aromatherapy massage in the spa, and then, lunch with friends in the Club House terrace.

La Cala Golf

La Cala Golf – Golf course and Club House

Mijas Pueblo

Mijas Pueblo is our next port of call. Located on the hillside of the sierra of the municipality of Mijas. It is the most visited white village on the Costa del Sol. This beautiful corner of Andalusia offers tourists a wide range of things to do and see. From enjoying its beautiful physionomy to visiting its monuments, tasting its traditional cuisine and buying arts and crafts. Its winding streets, charming nooks and crannies, flower-decked houses and numerous tiny squares all contribute to Mijas’ popularity. Mijas was declared a Historic-Artistic village in 1969 and has been authentically preserved ever since.

Views to Mijas Costa from mountain side

If you are an intrepid hiker who likes to walk a network of paths, you can not miss the Red Trail of Mijas, a great opportunity to explore the natural surroundings of Mijas, whose starting point is the Mirador de Mijas Pueblo. Another fabulous hiking option is hiking to Pico Mendoza (Mijas). Check out the video below:

Sources:
https://blog.fuertehoteles.com/en/destinations/mijas-pueblo/
https://www.spain-holiday.com/Mijas-Pueblo/articles/mijas-pueblo-a-view-of-the-costa-del-sol
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mijas
https://www.mijas.es/portal/
https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/circular-pico-malaga-o-mendoza-banco-de-la-memoria-sierra-de-mijas-mijas-malaga-01-10-2018-29200605
https://turismo.mijas.es/es/naturaleza/senderismo
Visit our website to check properties in Mijas Costa are for sale: www.alphaestates.com

Top Time to Buy Marbella Property, Aided by Rising Pound

Top Time to Buy Marbella Property, Aided by Rising Pound

13.05.2019

There’s helpful news for you if you intend to buy a property in Marbella with Alpha Estates Marbella this year. So far in 2019, since January 1st, the pound to euro interbank exchange rate has risen by +4.63%, or over +5 cents, from 1.1087 up to 1.1601 at the time of writing.

As a result, when you transfer money from the UK to your Spanish bank account, you might potentially get a higher euro total, compared to the start of the year. In turn, this might now make achieving your goal of buying real estate in Marbella more affordable for you, compared to 3 months ago.

Marbella Property Now Potentially Cheaper Than at Start of 2019

Let’s put this rise in the sterling versus euro interbank exchange rate into context for you. Imagine that you plan to transfer £265,000 to Spain in the next few weeks, to buy a luxury 2-bedroom apartment in Fuengirola with sea views.

At the interbank exchange rate on January 1st of 1.1087, this sum would have been worth €293,805.50. By comparison, at today’s interbank exchange rate of 1.1601, this sum would be worth €307,426.50.

That’s an increase of +€13,621 in the last 14 weeks. So it’s straightforward to see how this may make buying Marbella property more accessible.

Pound Rises Versus Euro, as “No Deal” Brexit Looks Less Likely

A big reason why the pound has risen versus the euro so far in 2019 is because financial markets feel much calmer about the outlook for Brexit. In particular, it’s now thought unlikely that the UK will crash out of the European Union without a deal.

This is because, first, the UK Parliament has voted several times to rule out a “No Deal” Brexit. In addition, the EU recently extended the UK’s Brexit timetable to October 31st.

This suggests that the EU still feels good will toward the UK, and wants to reach a deal. So this has helped lift the value of sterling against the Eurozone’s currency.

Sterling Gains in Value, as UK Economy Outperforms Eurozone

In addition, another factor why sterling has increased in value by over +5 cents versus the euro this year to date is because the UK’s economy is performing comparatively well.

For instance, we recently learnt that Britain’s economy expanded by a solid +0.2% in February, even with the Brexit uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the European Central Bank (ECB) has repeatedly cut its growth forecasts for the Eurozone. Recently, ECB President Mario Draghi hinted that he may unveil further monetary stimulus, to support GDP growth. So this too then has helped to boost sterling.

To conclude then, the pound to euro interbank exchange rate has risen notably since the start of this year. When you transfer money to Spain, you might now get a significantly higher euro total in your Spanish bank account, compared to on January 1st. This contributes to make this a top time to buy property in Marbella.

By Peter Lavelle at foreign exchange broker Pure FX, a trading name of Foreign Currency Direct Plc https://www.purefx.co.uk

Peter Lavelle

Pure FX

https://www.purefx.co.uk

+44 (0) 1494 671800

peter.lavelle@purefx.co.uk

Please note that the exchange rates within this article are interbank rates and are for indicative purposes only, and are not trading levels which Pure FX offer. For live trading levels contact one of our currency brokers on +44 (0) 1494 671800.

This article does not constitute advice to any person on any matter and it is not intended as a recommendation to trade. Pure FX makes every reasonable effort to ensure that this information is accurate and complete but assumes no responsibility for and gives no warranty with regard to any loss arising from actions taken as a result of acting on this information.

Share This