Why move to Alhaurin El Grande
Enjoy the authentic Andalusian lifestyle as it’s been for generations, with the Costa del Sol in easy reach, superb amenities and none of the urbanisations found in many similar towns.
While much of the Costa del Sol is well known for its modern developments and rowdy nightlife, the mountain town of Alhaurin El Grande is a reminder of thousands of years of rural Andalusian history. Nearby, forests contain traces of ancient Neolithic inhabitants and in the surrounding hills you will find Roman ruins. In town a Moorish archway takes you into the traditional Spanish Plaza. For all these reasons, this is a hotspot for settlers from overseas – and is the place that famed English travel writer Gerald Brennan finally laid his hat. And as he had dedicated his life to exploring Andalucia, you know that Alhaurin is something special.
The climate is another draw; the geography means you’re protected from the extremes of the summer heat and are equally comfortable in the winter. Outside the town you’ll find villas and fincas surrounded by land that is covered in olive, oak and pine trees with stunning views into the mountains or to the coast. You can spend a lifetime exploring this gorgeous natural habitat on foot, by bike and horseback. Or, if you’d prefer, take in a leisurely round of golf then watch the world go by in one of the town’s excellent tapas bars and restaurants.
Community
Alhaurin is home to 25,000 people, with a good mix of local and expat inhabitants. The town itself is predominantly Spanish, while around half of the properties in the surroundings are internationally owned.
Property
The town itself is very affordable, with apartments and houses to suit most budgets. Building was banned in the surrounding countryside in 2003 so you won’t find any sprawling urbanisations. This means more peace and quiet but also less property on the market.
Amenities
Shopping is excellent with several supermarkets, a greengrocer selling fresh, local produce and street markets on Thursdays and Saturdays. To relax you’ll find plentiful bars, restaurants and sports clubs, including a golf course designed by Seve Ballesteros.
Transport
Alhaurin El Grande is connected to Malaga and the nearby towns and villages by bus. You’ll find transport links much improved thanks to new roads leading to Fuengirola and Marbella. The nearest beach is around a twenty minute drive.
Employment
The town remains an agricultural centre, although, like much of the region you’ll find most work now in the tourist industry. There are a number of English bars and clubs, so this might be a good place to start if you’re still learning the language.
Health
You’ll find a state-run health centre in town along with a pharmacy and several private dentists. The nearest hospital is at the University of Malaga, twenty minutes in the car.
Schools
The town has a number of small Spanish state schools from nursery through to college level. If you’d like your children to follow the British educational system there are international schools in nearby Torremolinos and Fuengirola.
Cost of Living
One of the upsides of living away from the coastal resorts is that prices are a little lower, both for property and in the shops and restaurants.