Spain is best retirement destination in Europe, new study reveals
- Spain is Europe’s no. 1 retirement destination (Blacktower Financial Management)
- Property prices and quality are a big draw for UK retirees (Taylor Wimpey España)
- Cost of living in Spain is 4th lowest in Europe (Expatistan)
As the autumn weather turns colder, and the prospect of a ‘big freeze’ arises once again, it’s hard to keep from imagining spending the winter – indeed, all winters – somewhere a little warmer than the UK. Southern Spain is an obvious choice for several reasons, particularly when it comes to retirement.
“Spain is such a short distance from the UK, but the climate is so different. The southern coast enjoys 300 days of sunshine per year, which is ideal for those looking to spend more time outdoors and to keep active in their golden years. The food is also superb. With hundreds of variations of rice dishes alone and plenty of local, seasonal ingredients, it’s a diet that is delicious, healthy and budget-friendly.”
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director, Taylor Wimpey España
A poll by Expatistan placed Spain fourth in Europe earlier this year in terms of affordable destinations. Blacktower Financial Management, meanwhile, has just rated Spain as the top retirement destination in Europe, based on criteria including the cost of living, life expectancy and property prices.
Spain certainly has plenty to offer when it comes to the latter. The Costa Blanca has long been seen as an affordable location in which to own your own slice of Spain, whether as a holiday home or a main residence. Leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España offers apartments and townhouses there, priced from €170,000 plus VAT.
At La Recoleta III, for example, buyers can pick up two- and three-bedroom apartments with private terraces and lovely views over the sea and the development’s pool and landscaped communal gardens. Those with a little more to spend have the option to purchase a penthouse, complete with private solarium.
The Costa del Sol also has a number of affordable off-plan and key-ready options. At the newly launched Sun Valley, prices start from €241,000. The 23 apartments include two- and three-bedroom homes, with glass balcony enclosures surrounding the large terraces to allow buyers to enjoy the surrounding golf course to the full. With an adult pool, an infant splash pool and communal gardens, the homes offer a surprisingly affordable option at the heart of the prestigious La Cala Golf Resort.
Taylor Wimpey España’s homes are designed with sustainability in mind, drawing inspiration from a long-term desire to build in harmony with the natural beauty of the local environment. For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, it’s entirely possible to access southern Spain by train, rather than plane. London to Alicante is doable with just three changes, as is London to Malaga, with a choice of four departures to each city each day.
For those retiring to Spain and looking forward to visits from friends, children and grandchildren, this accessibility is an important consideration. Flights from destinations around the UK are also plentiful, during the winter months as well as the main summer tourist season.
“Spain is a fantastic retirement option for those looking to live somewhere with a superb climate, a welcoming community vibe, first rate medical facilities, easy accessibility, plentiful entertainment options and so much more. With good value, high quality homes available in a range of beachfront and frontline golf locations, it also delivers on the property front. Why spend your retirement years in the rain and cold, when there are other options out there?”
Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director, Taylor Wimpey España
For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit https://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.