5 of the best places to buy a second home in Spain

If you’re considering a second home abroad, look no further than Spain. There’s a reason why it’s the world’s second-most popular tourist destination (after France), with approximately 82 million visitors a year.From its sun-drenched beaches, azure blue waters, mystical coves, gleaming mountain ranges and olive-studded hillsides, Spain has long been a favourite among European vacation goers — Brits in particular. It offers the perfect blend of warm hospitality, a climate to put even our best summer days to shame, an easy-going, rich culture and fantastic cuisine — and even better, it’s just a short flight away. If you’re looking for a second home in Spain, these five regions and cities offer sun, beaches and so much more.

Costa del Sol

Andalusia’s sun-drenched Costa del Sol — which translates to “Coast of the Sun” — stretches more than 150 kilometres along the southern Iberian Peninsula, and is arguably home to some of the most sought-after second home destinations in Spain. Boasting over 325 sunny days a year, it’s no wonder travellers flock there to seek out their own slice of paradise. Málaga is the region’s largest city and offers everything you could want — an airport, museums and excellent authentic restaurants, as well as inland areas which are bursting with ancient Greek, Roman and Moorish history. The renowned Sierra Nevada mountain range is just two hours away, where cyclists can tackle the sheer hillsides and skiing is available during the winter months.

Marbella

Along the Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga is the exclusive coastal town of Marbella. Within its centre is ‘The Golden Mile’: A one-mile-long stretch of upscale hotels, exclusive clubs, designer boutiques and Michelin-star restaurants. Puerto Banús Marina stands at one end of the gleaming stretch to the west and is packed full of some of the world’s most luxurious super yachts, whilst Marbella lies to the east.Marbella’s allure over the decades can be traced back to Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe-Langenburg — also known as the Prince of Clubs — who first opened The Marbella Club Hotel in 1954, drawing in celebrities and royalty from around the world. Since then, the area's popularity has continued to grow, firmly placing it among the top destinations in Spain to own a luxury second home. From golden beaches kissed by the Mediterranean Sea, to the striking Sierra Blanca mountains that form Marbella’s dramatic backdrop, there is a corner here to suit everyone, and plenty of fresh seafood to go around.

Ibiza

The Balearic Islands, located off Spain’s eastern coast, are among the country’s most iconic destinations. Of the four main islands, Ibiza is known as one of the top party destinations in the world, drawing international DJs and party-goers to its world-famous clubs every year.For those seeking a quieter experience, Ibiza has a mellow side and a rich cultural history as well.It is an island of two halves that together, create one of the most famous destinations in the world. It’s where boho-luxe meets party revellers, gin-clear water sparkles in secluded coves, and history is interwoven through Ibiza Old Town — a UNESCO World Heritage site — where Renaissance architecture lines the cobbled streets. If you’re looking for a good time, look no further. This is an island that offers something for everyone.

Mallorca

Mallorca — often referred to as the crown jewel of the Mediterranean — is the largest of the Balearic Islands and a serious contender when considering a Spanish second home destination. Known for its dramatic limestone mountains, sheltered coves, crystal-clear waters and the vibrant, historic Roman capital of Palma, the island is a treasure trove offering a stunning varied landscape. Head to Puerto Portals — one of the island’s most glamorous spots — for people and yacht watching, or visit Cap de Formentor on the island’s northernmost point for dramatic ocean and mountain views, plus art galleries and citrus orchards in nearby towns.

Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca, or the “White Coast,” spans 200 kilometres along Spain’s southeastern coast, from Dénia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south. The region has been a popular tourist destination since the 1950s, thanks to its stunning landscapes and famed towns like Alicante and Valencia. Located in southeast Costa Blanca is Alicante, a city known for its long stretches of beaches, the old town of Barrio de la Santa Cruz, its buzzy nightlife scene and palm tree studded boulevards. Valencia, located approximately 156 kilometres north of Alicante, is known as the home of arts and science (and is the alleged birthplace of Paella). The wider region is home to spectacular nature reserves, where coastal caves, waterfalls and scaling mountain crags attract those in search of adventure. A second home here offers the best of Spain’s spectacular and diverse landscape — one where you can sail and dive off the Mediterranean coast, scale the more than 50 mountain peaks (making it the second-most mountainous region in the country), swing your clubs at one of the 18 world-class golf courses or relax on one of the 71 blue flag beaches after catching some waves.

A second home of your own

If you dream of jumping on a quick flight to your own private escape in a city with fantastic restaurants, one of the best-preserved old towns in the region and year-round sunshine, then consider a Pacaso second home in Marbella. From a stylish villa that overlooks the town’s famous golf courses and spectacular Sierra Blanca mountain range to a sumptuous townhouse-style villa that offers the utmost privacy and stunning 360-degree panoramic views, you’ll find luxury and comfort in one of Spain’s most beautiful settings. Pacaso takes care of the design, furnishings, maintenance and management of the home, so you can simply show up and relax. Browse co-ownership listings in Marbella and discover your dream second home.