Living in this coastal province is synonymous with quality of life. With its warm climate and a variety of landscapes ranging from paradise-like beaches to charming inland villages, the Costa Blanca has become the perfect home for those seeking a new life filled with sunshine and tranquility, as well as for those looking for a holiday retreat to escape the routine. The quality of life here is unmatched, and in this article, we will explore in detail what it’s like to live in Alicante.
Where to Live in the Province of Alicante
The province of Alicante offers a great diversity of locations, catering to different lifestyles. There are options for everyone.
Coastal Areas: Sea Views All Year Round
If you dream of living by the sea, Alicante offers spectacular locations along the Costa Blanca:
- Benidorm: The city that never sleeps, ideal for those looking for a dynamic environment with top-tier services and iconic beaches like Levante and Poniente.
- Altea: A town with Mediterranean charm, whitewashed streets, and breathtaking sea views. Perfect for those seeking peace without giving up proximity to services.
- Dénia: With a vibrant port and excellent gastronomy, it is one of the most exclusive locations in the province.
- Torrevieja: Popular among expats, it offers an international community, fine sandy beaches, and a wide range of leisure activities.
- Santa Pola: An ideal destination for families, with a relaxed atmosphere and a strong fishing tradition.
Inland Areas: Nature and Authenticity
If you prefer the tranquility of inland areas, Alicante also has towns full of history and natural beauty:
- Alcoy: Surrounded by mountains and rich in historical heritage, it is perfect for those looking for a cultural and natural environment.
- Villena: With its medieval castle and high-quality gastronomy, it is an excellent option for a peaceful lifestyle.
- Xixona: Famous for its turrón, this charming town is surrounded by mountains and has great gastronomic value.
- Pinoso: Ideal for wine and nature lovers, with vineyards and a strong winemaking tradition.
Beaches and Nature: The Best of Both Worlds
Alicante is famous for its beaches. The Costa Blanca boasts over 200 kilometers of coastline, featuring:
- San Juan Beach in Alicante: One of the largest and best-equipped beaches.
- Cala del Moraig in Benitachell: A paradise-like cove with turquoise waters.
- Levante Beach in Benidorm: Ideal for enjoying a cosmopolitan atmosphere and luxury services.
For hiking and nature lovers, the province also offers incredible natural spaces, such as:
- Montgó Natural Park, spanning Dénia and Xàbia, perfect for hiking trails with breathtaking views.
- Font Roja in Alcoy, a Mediterranean forest ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle.
- The Salt Lakes of Torrevieja, a unique landscape with pink-hued lagoons and a rich variety of bird species.
Alicante’s Gastronomy: Mediterranean Flavors
Eating in the province of Alicante is a true delight for the senses. Its gastronomy, based on fresh products from the sea and the Mediterranean garden, reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage. Rice dishes are undoubtedly the stars of the Alicante table, and among them, arroz a banda stands out. This humble dish originated among fishermen. Its name, “a banda”, means “on the side” in Valencian, as the rice was traditionally served separately from the fish used to prepare the broth. Its flavor is unmistakable, and it is often accompanied by homemade alioli to enhance its essence even more.
Another iconic dish is fideuà, which shares many similarities with paella but replaces rice with thick noodles. Although its origins are disputed among several towns, it is undoubtedly prepared to perfection in the province of Alicante, using fresh seafood and a well-crafted sofrito that intensifies its flavor.
When it comes to exclusive products, the red prawn of Dénia is one of the Mediterranean’s true gems. This deep-sea crustacean, with its intense red color and exceptional taste, is highly prized in haute cuisine. Its quality is so outstanding that it is considered a delicacy in many Michelin-starred restaurants.
For those with a sweet tooth, Xixona’s turrón is an absolute must. This dessert, with protected designation of origin, has been traditionally handcrafted for centuries in the town of Jijona. Its smooth texture and rich almond and honey flavor make it a symbol of Christmas, although in Alicante, it is enjoyed all year round.
What Is the Quality of Life and Services Like?
The province boasts a top-tier healthcare infrastructure, with modern hospitals and private clinics ensuring high-quality medical care. Additionally, its connectivity is excellent, thanks to the Alicante-Elche International Airport, which links to numerous national and international destinations, high-speed trains connecting it to cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and a well-developed road network that facilitates access to any part of the region.
All of this is complemented by a reasonable cost of living. Compared to other coastal areas in Spain, Alicante offers an excellent quality-price ratio, both in terms of housing and services, making it an ideal destination for living and enjoying life.
Whether on the coast or inland, this region offers options for every taste and need. If you are considering moving to the Costa Blanca or investing in property, don’t hesitate to explore all the opportunities that Sonneil has to offer in this wonderful province.
