Costa Blanca Boosts Year-Round Tourism as Hotel Occupancy Surges to 77% in November
New data released this week shows that Benidorm and the wider Costa Blanca are successfully strengthening their push toward a year-round tourism model, with hotel occupancy climbing to 77% in November. This marks a significant rise from 69.1% during the same month last year, according to figures highlighted by Euro Weekly News.
The increase demonstrates that the region’s strategy to reduce reliance on the traditional summer season is paying off. More consistent tourism numbers throughout the year bring major benefits to the local economy, stabilising income for businesses, supporting long-term employment, and reducing the financial volatility often associated with seasonal tourism.
For the real estate market, the shift toward year-round visitation is especially positive. Sustained hotel occupancy correlates with higher demand for holiday rentals, long-stay accommodation, and second homes—particularly from northern European visitors seeking winter sun. This stability not only supports current property prices but also strengthens long-term investment prospects across coastal areas such as Benidorm, Altea, Calpe, Torrevieja, and the Orihuela Costa.
Local businesses also stand to benefit as tourism spreads more evenly across the calendar. Restaurants, shops, theme parks, tour operators, and service providers gain a more predictable flow of customers, encouraging expansion and discouraging seasonal closures. This creates a more vibrant atmosphere year-round, further increasing the Costa Blanca’s appeal to both tourists and potential residents.
The rise in occupancy is also seen as a positive signal for developers and investors. A steady, dependable inflow of visitors makes the area more attractive for new hotel projects, mixed-use developments, and hospitality-based investments. With tourism performing strongly outside the summer months, confidence in long-term growth is rising.
Overall, the November figures reinforce the Costa Blanca’s position as one of Spain’s most resilient and adaptive tourism regions. By continuing to attract visitors beyond the peak season, the area is securing stronger economic stability, supporting local jobs, and enhancing property market value—ensuring the Costa Blanca remains a top destination for both travellers and investors.
Posted by: Adam Hatton on 02/12/2025
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Torrevieja Salt Exports Strengthen Local Economy and Boost Area’s Appeal
Torrevieja’s world-renowned salt industry is once again playing a key role in keeping the United Kingdom’s roads safe this winter, as thousands of tonnes of locally harvested salt are shipped north for de-icing. The city’s iconic salt flats—already the largest in Europe—continue to expand their economic footprint, offering promising implications for employment, investment, and the local property market.
Each year, more than 250,000 tonnes of Torrevieja salt are distributed across Spain and Europe to combat icy conditions. The product is a unique blend of Mediterranean marine salt and mineral salt sourced from the Pinoso mines, prized for its durability on road surfaces and its ability to stay in place without excessive dispersion.
This winter season is already well underway. Four cargo ships have departed the Port of Torrevieja bound for the UK, ahead of the peak demand in December and January. Shipments are expected to continue through early March as cold conditions persist across northern Europe.
NCAST, the company responsible for managing the bulk of the loading operations, has the capacity to transfer up to 450 tonnes per hour—reaching an impressive 5,000 tonnes per day. This efficiency is supported by a dedicated rail connection running directly from the salt mountains at the lakeside to the port, ensuring a smooth, high-volume supply chain.
The increase in winter demand also leads to a surge in local employment. Additional staff are brought in for overnight and seasonal shifts to handle the influx of vessels requiring rapid turnaround. Last December alone, 90,000 tonnes of salt were shipped—highlighting the scale of operations and the workforce needed to support them.
While Torrevieja salt is best known for its role in winter road safety across Europe, the product also reaches markets in the United States and Canada. Beyond de-icing, it is used for industrial purposes and in food production, including bread, meat, pasta, and sausage manufacturing.
The continued global demand for Torrevieja salt not only bolsters local business activity but also enhances the city’s economic stability—an attractive factor for investors and new residents alike. Increased port activity, job creation, and international visibility all contribute to strengthening the Torrevieja area, supporting long-term growth and further encouraging interest in the property market.
Posted by: Adam Hatton on 25/11/2025
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A Thriving Market in the Heart of Spain
The Costa Blanca, Spain’s picturesque Mediterranean coastline, is becoming one of the most promising investment hotspots in 2025. With its stunning landscapes, growing economy, and increasing international appeal, this region is drawing attention from investors across Europe and beyond. From real estate to tourism, technology, and sustainable developments, the Costa Blanca offers a wealth of opportunities for those looking to secure a profitable future.
Booming Real Estate Market
One of the most significant investment drivers in the Costa Blanca is its real estate market. The demand for property in cities like Alicante, Benidorm, and Torrevieja has soared in recent years, fueled by a strong tourism sector and an influx of expatriates seeking a sunnier lifestyle.
According to local property experts, the region has seen a steady increase in property values, with some areas experiencing growth of up to 8-10% annually. The market remains particularly attractive due to its affordability compared to other Mediterranean hotspots like the French Riviera or the Amalfi Coast. Foreign buyers, especially from the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia, are showing increasing interest in both holiday homes and long-term investments.
Tourism Industry on the Rise
Costa Blanca’s tourism sector continues to thrive, making it a lucrative area for investors in hotels, vacation rentals, and hospitality services. With over 3 million visitors annually, the region benefits from its golden beaches, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage. The Spanish government has also been investing in infrastructure improvements, such as airport expansions and modernized transport links, ensuring continued growth in visitor numbers.
Investors are particularly drawn to the rise of eco-friendly tourism, as Costa Blanca is focusing on sustainable travel initiatives. Green hotels, eco-resorts, and nature-focused activities are attracting a new wave of environmentally conscious travelers, providing opportunities for sustainable investment projects.
Expanding Business & Tech Sector
While traditionally known for tourism and real estate, Costa Blanca is also seeing a rise in technological and business investments. Cities like Alicante have developed innovation hubs, attracting startups and international businesses. The Spanish government’s initiatives, including tax incentives for new businesses and digital nomad visas, have contributed to the region’s growing reputation as a business-friendly environment.
This digital transformation is not only attracting tech entrepreneurs but also investors looking to fund high-growth startups in industries such as renewable energy, fintech, and artificial intelligence.
Sustainable Investment Opportunities
As sustainability becomes a priority worldwide, the Costa Blanca is positioning itself as a leader in green development. The region has seen an increase in solar energy farms, eco-friendly residential projects, and smart city initiatives. Investors interested in sustainable ventures can find attractive opportunities in renewable energy projects, green construction, and environmental tourism.
Why Now is the Time to Invest
With property prices still relatively affordable, a booming tourism industry, and strong government support for business and sustainability, 2025 presents an ideal moment to invest in Costa Blanca. Experts predict continued growth across all key sectors, making it a prime destination for investors seeking long-term returns.
Whether you’re considering real estate, hospitality, technology, or green investments, the Costa Blanca offers a sunny and profitable future.
Posted by: Adam Hatton on 03/02/2025
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The Opposition Party counter Sanchez’s suggestions with offers of TAX CUTS for foreign investment
The opposition People's Party (PP) in Spain has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to address the country’s housing crisis, articulated through the Asturias Declaration. This policy announcement, presented at a summit in Asturias, underscores the PP's approach to creating pragmatic solutions aimed at housing affordability, increasing housing supply, and reducing bureaucratic barriers, all while maintaining a climate conducive to foreign investment in the construction sector.
Key Housing Proposals:
Reduced Property Transfer Tax:
A proposed cut to 4% for buyers under 40.
Income Tax Deductions:
Focused on investments in primary residences, energy-efficient improvements, and rentals to specific demographic groups.
Financial Assistance:
Guarantee programs for young buyers to secure 100% mortgage financing.
Boosting Housing Supply:
Mobilization of public land through public-private partnerships.
Incentives for property owners to release vacant homes into the rental market with safeguards against non-payment.
Squatter Issue:
Repeal of the Sánchez government’s Housing Law, seen by the PP as too lenient on illegal occupiers.
New legislation to allow expedited 24-hour evictions and stricter penalties for squatting.
Rent Controls:
Repeal of rent control measures, which the PP argues distort market dynamics.
Bureaucratic Streamlining:
Faster urban planning approvals and reduced administrative red tape.
Criticism of the Current Government:
The PP did not shy away from critiquing the policies of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his Socialist government (PSOE), alleging mismanagement and authoritarian tendencies. PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo emphasized that the current administration’s rent control measures and housing policies have aggravated the housing crisis rather than alleviated it.
Political Context:
The Asturias Declaration positions the PP as a viable alternative for addressing housing concerns and broader national issues. By combining measures to support young buyers, attract investment, and ensure legal protections for property owners, the PP seeks to differentiate itself with a more market-driven and investment-friendly approach compared to the current government.
This development highlights an ongoing debate in Spain over the balance between social housing policies and market-driven solutions, with significant implications for voters, investors, and the broader real estate market.
Posted by: Adam Hatton on 22/01/2025
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The Costa Blanca's Zenia Boulevard shopping center continues to solidify its reputation as a key driver of economic growth and community development. With record-breaking footfall in 2023 and significant ongoing renovations, the mall’s success offers a compelling case for property investment in the surrounding area.
Record Footfall Reflects a Thriving Economy
In its 12th year, Zenia Boulevard welcomed an unprecedented 15 million visitors in 2023, marking an impressive 8.6% increase in footfall compared to 2022. Peak months saw staggering traffic, with 1.8 million visitors in July and 1.7 million in August, underscoring the area’s year-round appeal as a retail and leisure destination.
Such figures not only highlight the strength of the local economy butalso demonstrate the sustained demand for tourism and services in the Costa Blanca. For property investors, this translates to growing interest in both short-term vacation rentals and long-term residential opportunities.
Renovations Signal Long-Term Growth
Zenia Boulevard is undergoing a transformative €18 million renovation, set to complete by March 2024. Upgrades include modernized facades, improved paving and rest areas, enhanced dining spaces, and revamped children’s facilities.
The addition of solar electricity installations and a micro water treatment plant highlights the center’s commitment to sustainability, with a projected 40% increase in renewable energy usage and up to a 15% reduction in water consumption. These forward-thinking initiatives are expected to attract even more visitors and tenants, further boosting the mall’s reputation and economic impact.
What This Means for Property Investors
Zenia Boulevard’s growth mirrors the broader appeal of the Costa Blanca as a hub for tourism, shopping, and lifestyle. Investors can capitalize on several key opportunities:
- Vacation Rentals: High visitor numbers create strong demand for nearby holiday accommodations, ensuring excellent occupancy rates and rental yields.
- Residential Demand: Families and retirees are drawn to areas with top-tier amenities, such as Zenia Boulevard’s shopping and leisure facilities.
- Commercial Potential: The influx of visitors provides opportunities for retail and service-oriented property investments near the mall.
A Future-Proof Investment Destination
As Costa Blanca continues to attract international attention, areas surrounding thriving developments like Zenia Boulevard are poised for sustained growth. The shopping center’s success and ongoing upgrades signal confidence in the region's economic future, making now an opportune moment to invest in property.
With a combination of increasing tourism, modern infrastructure, and a commitment to sustainability, the Zenia Boulevard area offers both immediate returns and long-term value for savvy investors.
Posted by: Adam Hatton on 05/12/2024
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