Costa Blanca North or South: The Key Differences
The Costa Blanca is 200 kilometres long and anything but uniform. The north and the south differ so much that they almost feel like two separate destinations. Once you know which part suits you, your property search becomes much more focused. Here are the main differences.
Where is the dividing line?
There is no official border, but in practice the line is usually drawn around Alicante city. Everything from Dénia down to Benidorm and Altea counts as the north; the area from Alicante to Pilar de la Horadada, with towns such as Santa Pola, Guardamar, Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa, forms the south.
Landscape: mountains versus beach
The north is green and hilly. The foothills of the Sierra de Bernia and the striking Peñón de Ifach near Calpe create a dramatic backdrop, with picturesque coastal towns, vineyards and coves with crystal-clear water. The south is flatter and drier, with long wide sandy beaches, dunes and the pink salt lakes of Torrevieja. Hikers and nature lovers tend to choose the north, while beach lovers feel at home in the south.
Property and prices
The price difference between the two areas is considerable. The north is dominated by detached villas on generous plots, often with sea views, in towns such as Jávea, Moraira and Benissa. Prices are clearly higher there and the choice below 250,000 euros is limited. The south offers far more in that segment: apartments, bungalows and townhouses on urbanisations, often with a communal pool. If you are looking for a holiday home in the sun on an average budget, the south is usually where you will end up.
Atmosphere and community
The north has traditionally attracted a quieter crowd and has a somewhat more exclusive character, with villages that have kept their Spanish charm. The south is livelier and more international: large Dutch, Belgian, British and Scandinavian communities live around Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa, and amenities such as golf courses, shopping centres and international schools are plentiful. The south also stays active outside the season, thanks to its many permanent residents.
Which part is for whom?
- Choose the north if you love nature, authentic villages and a spacious villa, and your budget is a little higher.
- Choose the south if you are looking for affordability, wide beaches, golf and a large international community.
Real Estate G. Jimmink works along the entire Costa Blanca and is happy to help you decide which part of the coast best matches your wishes and budget. Get in touch for advice without obligation.
