Welcome to the frontline of climate change, where Spain’s iconic sun-drenched beaches are under threat, and the tourism industry is scrambling to adapt. Picture this: dry showers, swarms of jellyfish, and blistering temperatures soaring to 50ºC at your favorite beach bar. It’s not a dystopian future; it’s the reality Spain faces as it grapples with the profound impacts of the climate crisis on its tourism sector.
The Climate Crisis Hits Home
Spain, like many Mediterranean countries, finds itself at the epicenter of climate change in Europe. Rising temperatures, increasingly severe droughts, and erratic weather patterns are reshaping the landscape, challenging the very essence of sun and beach tourism. According to reports, Valencia recently experienced record-breaking temperatures of almost 31 degrees Celsius in January, setting the stage for potentially scorching summers ahead.
But it’s not just about the heat. The Mediterranean Sea, a playground for beachgoers, is also feeling the burn. Sea temperatures are reaching unprecedented highs, creating ideal conditions for jellyfish blooms that have forced beach closures and disrupted tourist activities along the coast.
Rising Seas and Sinking Shores
The threat isn’t just confined to the sands and surf; it’s creeping inland as well. Sea-level rise in the Mediterranean basin is outpacing projections, with coastal areas of Spain, Italy, and Greece experiencing sinking shorelines. This phenomenon not only exacerbates the risk of flooding but also threatens the very existence of coastal communities and infrastructure.
The Tourism Industry at a Crossroads
In the face of these challenges, the Spanish tourism industry is at a crossroads. With over 84 million tourists flocking to its shores annually, the sector is a vital contributor to the country’s economy, accounting for approximately 12% of the national GDP. However, reports warn that the economic impact of climate change could slash revenues by up to 50%, spelling trouble for an industry already reeling from the effects of the pandemic.
But amid the gloom, there are glimmers of hope. At events like Fitur, Spain’s premier tourism fair, industry leaders are embracing sustainability, environmental responsibility, and climate action as guiding principles for the future. From promoting eco-friendly practices in hotels to extending the tourism season beyond the traditional summer months, there’s a growing recognition that business as usual is no longer an option.
Looking Ahead: Toward a Sustainable Future
As Spain grapples with the realities of a changing climate, there’s a growing consensus that sustainability must become the new standard for tourism. Whether it’s reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, or educating tourists about their environmental impact, every stakeholder has a role to play in shaping a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry.
So, the next time you bask in the warmth of the Spanish sun or dip your toes in the azure waters of the Mediterranean, remember that the choices we make today will determine the future of one of the world’s most beloved tourist destinations.
It’s time to face the heat, adapt to the challenges, and pave the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.
Northern Spain lands can be very enchanting, where the green hills meet the vast Atlantic, and the echoes of ancient cultures resonate through charming villages, a unique opportunity awaits. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the top reasons why buying a house in the North of Spain is not just a real estate transaction but an investment in a lifestyle enriched with culture, natural beauty, and promising economic indicators.
1. A Tapestry of Scenic Beauty
In the region of Galicia, where emerald-green landscapes roll into the horizon and the Cantabrian Sea gently kisses the shore, buying a house is an investment in an ever-changing masterpiece of nature. According to the Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE), the region’s vast protected areas account for over 30% of the territory, ensuring that these landscapes remain unspoiled for generations to come (1).
2. The Cultural Symphony of the Basque Country
Venture into the Basque Country, a land where traditions are celebrated with fervor, and the language, Euskara, whispers tales of ancient times. With a unique cultural identity, this region stands as a testament to the diversity that is Spain. Statistical data from UNESCO shows the preservation of this cultural richness, as many elements of Basque cultural heritage are inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (2).
3. Culinary Bliss: A Feast for the Senses
Delight your palate with the flavors of the North. In Asturias, where cider flows freely, and in the Basque Country, home to Michelin-starred restaurants, the gastronomic adventure is unparalleled. According to a study by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Spain consistently ranks among the top countries with the most awarded restaurants, emphasizing the culinary excellence that awaits you in the North (3).
4. Property Market Stability and Affordability
Investing in the North of Spain not only promises a life of cultural richness but also a stable and affordable real estate market. According to the Spanish property portal Idealista, as of [insert latest date], the average property prices in northern regions such as Galicia and Asturias are notably competitive compared to the national average (4).
5. Tourism Boom: A Lucrative Investment Opportunity
The North’s allure is no secret, attracting tourists seeking an authentic Spanish experience. With over [insert number] million visitors annually, the tourism industry is thriving (5). Owning a property in a tourist hotspot could potentially translate into a lucrative rental income, offering both financial returns and the joy of sharing this captivating region with others.
6. Infrastructural Flourish: Connectivity and Accessibility
Recent investments in infrastructure have enhanced connectivity, making the North of Spain more accessible than ever before. With improved transportation links, including high-speed rail connections and upgraded road networks, the region becomes not just a picturesque retreat but a well-connected home (6).
In conclusion, the decision to buy a house in the North of Spain is not just a transaction; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a tapestry of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and economic opportunities. As you consider this journey, let the statistics and data guide you, painting a vivid picture of a life well-lived in the heart of one of Europe’s hidden gems.
Sources:
Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE), Protected Natural Spaces Statistics.
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists.
The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Idealista, Spanish Property Market Analysis.
Spanish Tourism Statistics.
Spanish Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure Investment Reports.
The surge in foreign property investment across various provinces in Spain remains notable, with a discernible uptick in their market presence. According to the Property Registrars’ data for the second quarter, foreign buyers accounted for a significant 14.94% of total real estate transactions nationwide, marking the second-highest result in recorded history.
This resurgence in foreign buyer activity, after a lull in the previous quarters, comes against a backdrop of a general decline in overall transactions. The registrars highlight the foreign market’s importance in sustaining substantial volumes in real estate deals.
The Mediterranean coastal regions and islands continue to attract substantial foreign demand, as seen in Alicante, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Málaga, and the Balearic Islands. In these provinces, buyers from other countries purchased a staggering 30% or more of all properties sold, effectively doubling the national average. Leading this trend, the Costa Blanca reported nearly 45% of transactions attributed to foreign buyers, with Alicante standing out as the province where 40% of property sales involved non-Spanish purchasers. Subsequent provinces on this list include Santa Cruz de Tenerife with 38.01%, Málaga with 32.02%, and the Balearic Islands with 30.38%.
Beyond these regions, provinces like Girona, Murcia, Las Palmas, Almería, and Tarragona also witnessed a higher-than-average share of foreign investment, contributing between 29.2% and 15.8% of the total transactions between April and June.
However, it’s noteworthy that while regions like Castellón, Valencia, and Barcelona registered double-digit shares, a vast majority of the remaining provinces had foreign buyers accounting for less than 10% of the market. Provinces like Granada and Zaragoza saw only 7% of their property deals involving foreign purchasers, while in others like Madrid, Teruel, and Guadalajara, the share stood at 6%.
In certain provinces, the presence of foreigners in property transactions is even lower, with A Coruña, Albacete, Pontevedra, Palencia, Cáceres, Córdoba, and Zamora recording figures below 2%.
The trend varies across Autonomous Communities, with only the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands experiencing foreign buyers contributing to more than 30% of home transactions in the second quarter. Subsequently, the Valencian Community (29.91%), Murcia (23.56%), and Catalonia (15.35%) emerged as the most prominent regions in this regard, while Extremadura and Galicia reported a mere 2% share.
This upsurge in foreign market activity during spring led to a 0.42% increase in their share compared to the beginning of the year, inching closer to the previous record of 15.92% recorded in the third quarter of 2022.
The quarterly evolution reveals a mixed picture, with 31 provinces witnessing an increase in foreign market share, while 19 others experienced a decline and one remained stable.
The British continue to hold a dominant position historically among foreign property buyers, though their relative share has dipped slightly from 9% to 8.8%. Other prominent nationalities contributing substantially include Germans (7.25%), French (6.56%), Moroccans (5.37%), Italians (5.22%), Romanians (5.15%), Belgians (5.09%), and Dutch (4.61%).
Despite purchasing fewer than 1,000 properties in the same period, nationalities like Poles (3.92%), Russians (3.43%), Chinese (3.09%), Swedes (2.94%), Ukrainians (2.72%), and Irish (1.66%) have shown increased activity compared to the beginning of the year.
Spain has many other wonderful cities to discover!
The British are the foreigners who visit our Spain the most, and they normally concentrate in the coastal areas of the east and south of the peninsula, as well as on the islands.
But now many brits have discovered other places where it is not common to see citizens of the United Kingdom enjoying their holidays. The Telegraph newspaper has published an article highlighting the benefits of the Principality of Asturias.
In its headline, the London newspaper jokes that it is the Spanish region that “has everything except British tourists.” “There are beaches, mountains, fascinating cities and it is less hot in summer than in the south and east of the country,” he says.
About the Principality of Asturias, the newspaper, founded in 1855, says that it is “almost as if it had been designed by an ingenious algorithm to keep everyone happy.”
“You don’t have to choose between beach or mountains, or between a city break or an active holiday: this small region in northern Spain has it all,” says the newspaper.
For the Telegraph, “it is not surprising that many Spaniards have a second residence there”, and says that “the only enigma is why so few Britons choose it for their holidays.”
“Traveling through the region, you come across pre-Romanesque churches, but also surprising contemporary architecture; you can walk through spectacular scenery in the hills in the morning and cool off on an idyllic beach in the afternoon,” the text continues.
Although they warn that “it rains more than in the south of the country,” they emphasize that “if you have only experienced the Spain of vacation packages in large resorts, you will feel as if you were in another country.”
The text highlights the three large cities, Oviedo, Gijón and Avilés, which “have very different personalities” but states that “each one has its own charm.” In addition, he recommends visiting other sites such as the Tito Bustillo caves, near Ribadesella; Buxu in Cangas de Onís and La Lluera in San Juan de Priorio.
“Covadonga, in the Picos de Europa, is recognized as the cradle of Christian Spain, since it was here at the beginning of the 8th century where King Pelayo triumphed over the Moors, beginning the reconquest that would take another seven centuries to complete” says the Telegraph.
According to the London newspaper, “Asturias is one of the best gastronomic regions in Spain.”
La Coruña: Where Spain’s North Meets the Atlantic
Imagine a breath of fresh air in the northernmost reaches of Spain, where a provincial capital perches on a stunning headland, embraced by vast, sweeping beaches that welcome the mighty Atlantic’s rolling waves (calling all surfers!). This is La Coruña, a city with the spirited charm of a place that thrives on industry rather than tourism, exuding the invigorating brininess of a hardworking harbor town.
For a taste of La Coruña’s legendary passion for football, don’t miss catching a home game at the Riazor stadium when Deportivo La Coruña (lovingly known as “El Depor”) takes to the field. And did you know that Picasso spent part of his childhood here? There’s a captivating trail to follow, from his family home on Calle Payo Gómez to the very shop where a young Pablo held his very first exhibition.
On a Saturday morning, seize the opportunity to explore the vibrant bric-a-brac markets and street fashion havens in the Orzán district, with a vibe reminiscent of Brighton. Afterwards, saunter over to the taverns on Calle Estrella for a hearty plate of pulpo á feira (octopus and potato) accompanied by generous glasses of albariño wine.
La Coruña effortlessly dispels the notion that the north is always grim; in fact, its warm, rough-hewn hospitality might just transport you to a place much further south, where life is lived with gusto and the sea is ever at your side.
Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country register significant increases in home purchases by foreigners.
She was born in London 47 years ago, but today Hannah Darvill lives and works in deep Galicia. Specifically in Toiriz, a village seventy kilometers from Lugo where it was established in 2021 after a series of coincidences. “A few years ago I decided that I wanted to live in the north of Spain: I had traveled the entire country by bicycle and I had fallen in love with Galicia, its landscapes, its greenery and its aesthetics,” he says. “After Brexit I had a deadline to apply for residency in another European country, so I took advantage and came.”
During the pandemic, Darvill Googled ‘Galicia river stone house’ and found a photo of “my dream house.” “It was an old mill in a restored house. It was in an Airbnb ad. I messaged the owners and asked if they were selling it. They said no, but later I suggested renting it to them during the winter and they said now Yes, they were thinking about selling,” he continues. “I was still interested, so I went to see it and bought it.”
It is curious, he says, that these owners were Scottish and the previous ones were English. The complex, made up of a main house and a secondary house and located in the Sobreirais do Río Arnego nature reserve, functions as a rural house. Darvill lives on that income, and when he rents the entire property in the summer he takes advantage of it to continue discovering the community by van.
The Londoner closed the purchase in November 2021, thus becoming one of the 1,218 foreigners who purchased a home in Galicia that year. In 2022 there were 1,382, almost 400 more, according to data published every six months by the General Council of Notaries. These are discrete figures, far removed from the Valencian Community, Andalusia and Catalonia, but they have been registering large percentage increases semester by semester. The trend is similar throughout northern Spain: in addition to Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country.
Sales by foreigners are growing in the north.
Home sales per semester in each community
Source: General Council of Notaries
“We must keep in mind that the data is deceptive. When you have 20,000 semi-annual operations and you go to 20,010, the percentage growth is very small, but it is still many more than going from 200 to 400. That said: from time to time there are areas that become fashionable for second homes. In the eighties it was Tarragona, Benidorm had a very strong time, Jávea is full of Madrid residents…” says Laura Martínez, communications director of the mortgage comparator iAhorro. “The north is becoming more and more attractive. These provinces are doing good marketing campaigns to attract tourism, but we will have to see if the demand for residences from foreigners ends up going there.”
The nationality of buyers in the northern provinces varies. Among the non-residents, Germans and Portuguese stand out in Galicia, Argentines and Germans in Asturias, French and Americans in Cantabria and Americans and French in the Basque Country. Among residents, the Portuguese dominate in Galicia and the Romanians in the rest of the communities.
Added to the trend in the north, iAhorro has detected a drop of 2.5% in the second quarter of this year in homes acquired in the coastal provinces of the south, the east and the Spanish islands, the areas that continue to concentrate the highest number of foreign sales in Spain. Castellón and Murcia are the cheapest to buy. Its mortgage director, Simone Colombelli, attributes this decline to the rise in interest rates, which in turn have made mortgage loans more expensive.
Where did foreigners buy the most homes in 2022?
Sales of foreigners by community
Source: General Council of Notaries
“Demand has reduced considerably and owners have to adapt by lowering their prices a little to be able to sell,” he says. In the case of Murcia, he also considers that “the bad publicity that the region has received due to the state of the Mar Menor has made, especially foreign buyers, opt for other options.”
From English to Dutch
Hannah Darvill didn’t buy her house alone. At that time I already knew David Imrie, a Scot living in Galicia who for years advised his compatriots who wanted to move and buy a house in the region. Imrie and his wife, from Sweden, worked in an office near London owned by Nokia. The Swedish company dominated the mobile phone market in the 90s and 2000s, but the launch of the iPhone sank its sales. So much so that in 2012 it laid off 30,000 people: among them, Imrie and his wife.
“We had very specific skills to work at Nokia, so it was going to be very difficult to find new positions. I already had a house in Galicia because during my years at Nokia I had taken the opportunity to study a master’s degree in architectural technology with the idea of, in future, dedicate myself to renovating homes,” he says. “I liked Galicia and I bought it. The climate is similar to the Scottish one, but much better than the English one. It’s not bad. And you can buy very big and cheap houses. We decided to move there and start a family.”
One of the houses that David considered buying in Galicia – DAVID IMRIE
Imrie settled in Pontedeume and set up a website to attract clients. In it he told the entire process he followed to check if one of the first houses he saw was worth it, from when he visited it until he verified the municipality’s General Urban Planning Plan established that at some point they could build a huge development behind it. He wrote more sections focused on how to find good homes and what to consider when buying them and got to work. “I had about thirty clients, both to help buy and to renovate. But in 2016 Brexit was voted and it killed my business, because all my clients were English,” he remembers.
As its website is still open, it occasionally receives emails from Europeans interested in buying. “Especially Dutch,” he says. “The profile is similar to mine: people who earn well, who work in technology and can work from anywhere. I have helped a ‘senior’ software developer and a graphic designer. I think they are people who are looking for a good balance between life and work. Buying a truly special house in London is impossible for most people. Here I have a 450 square meter house facing the estuary. It’s something I could never have afforded in the United Kingdom. That’s why people come.”
Record number of foreigners buying homes in Spain
In 2022, foreigners bought more homes than ever in Spain. According to the yearbook of the College of Registrars, there were 88,800 operations that represented 13.8% of the total sales, a record number and never seen before. In addition, the number of sales by non-EU foreigners who paid half a million euros or more (3,794) for a home skyrocketed, an operation through which they could apply for the golden visa and obtain a residence permit.
Despite Brexit, the British continue to be the foreigners who buy the most, followed by Germans, French, Belgians and Moroccans. Martínez, from iAhorro, believes that in the coming months house prices on the Andalusian and Mediterranean coasts will continue to fall, but more because of the rates than because of the heat.
Will the north fill with foreigners seeking milder temperatures as the south becomes impassable? In Asturias, the community in which the greatest percentage increase in sales was recorded in the last semester, they do not see it so clearly. “We are neither going to be filled with foreigners nor are we going to live off sales to foreigners,” declared the president of the Asturian Real Estate Association regarding the data. For Imrie, instinct tells him that demand, at least in Galicia, will continue to grow. “Before it was retired foreigners looking for a place to retire, now it’s younger people looking for a lifestyle that they can find here.”
The British newspaper names La Coruña as the perfect destination for its excellent restaurants, its cultural offer and the longest promenade in Europe.
“Picture a lush, green landscape, where the climate gracefully dances with change, and the faint echo of bagpipes adds a touch of magic to the atmosphere. This is La Coruña, a gem nestled in Celtic Galicia, and it feels like a world apart from the Spain you’re familiar with. Steeped in maritime history, this ancient port city lives in perfect harmony with the mighty Atlantic that embraces it. You’ll spot the ocean’s influence in every nook and cranny, from the delectable seafood to those sturdy glass balconies, built to brave all sorts of weather.
Recently, Kirsten Jenton’s enchanting article in The Times’ Travel section captured the essence of this Galician haven. She couldn’t help but praise the city, highlighting it as the ultimate weekend destination. Kirsten underscored La Coruña’s culinary delights, where you can savor top-notch dishes without breaking the bank, and its rich cultural scene.
As we delve into the past, we find that La Coruña has been a gateway to a world in perpetual expansion for centuries, welcoming sailors, pilgrims, and merchants from afar. Today, this city masterfully combines its history with vibrant festivals, captivating museums, and a plethora of budget-friendly restaurants. It’s the perfect recipe for an urban escape like no other.”
View of the Tower of Hercules from the Ensenada del Orzán
In the “What to Do” section, our friendly guide has lined up six exciting activities that promise a memorable La Coruña experience. Let’s dive right in!
First on the list, the must-visit is the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest Roman lighthouse, still standing tall and shining its light. And, because we English folks appreciate our brews, our guide seamlessly introduces beer into the mix. They suggest a visit to the Estrella Galicia Museum, where you can unravel the secrets of the perfect pint and dive into the fascinating history of this family business, born in 1906. Don’t miss the tasting with cheese pairing; it’s an absolute delight.
Now, if you’re up for a little adventure and a dash of alcohol (in moderation, of course), it’s time for an electric bike ride along Europe’s longest promenade. Take a pit stop at the charming O Parrote port before pedaling your way to the serene Praia das Lapas and the sandy arc of Orzán Beach.
The journey continues with a visit to the Picasso Museum, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the artist’s passing. Up next is the Monte de San Pedro viewpoint and a stroll in the lively María Pita square, where you’ll uncover the maritime connections between Great Britain and La Coruña. Not too far away, nestled in the gardens of San Carlos, you’ll find the mausoleum of Sir John Moore, a British army officer who met his end during the Battle of Elviña in 1809.
Maria Pita Square
Now, let’s talk about the coolest neighborhood, shall we? Galera Street is the place to be, brimming with bars and restaurants. Here, you can savor delectable scallops, mussels, clams, and for those feeling a bit fancy, barnacles. For a quick, delightful bite, our guide recommends La Cervecería, situated right where the first Estrella Galicia beer factory was born. Enjoy your beer alongside some Padrón peppers and bravas. Taberna Os Tigres is the go-to for an albariño and razor clams, while Barbería offers a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere for savoring some excellent octopus.
Galician-style octopus
When it comes to dining, our guide suggests two fantastic options. El de Alberto takes Galician products and adds a modern twist, so be sure to try their tasting menu. And then there’s Árbore da Veira, boasting a Michelin star and serving up dishes as exquisite as the panoramic views of the sea and the city.
Before you wrap up your day, cap it off with a delicious cocktail at Bordello Parlor, where they serve up liquid gastronomy that tantalizes all five senses.
