Inside 'breathtaking' Spanish town where Brits flock for sunshine and quiet life
British expats love this Spanish town that is much less garish than nearby Benidorm - but tourists often overlook the gorgeous area.
Countless Brits dream of swapping the UK's dreary weather and daily rat race for a laid-back life in the Mediterranean. But when it actually comes to taking the plunge, where are they choosing to settle down?
Rather than packing into the neon-lit strips of Benidorm or the bustling city of Alicante (which shares its name with the wider Alicante province), savvy house-hunters are quietly flocking to a spectacular coastal enclave just 45 minutes up the road.
Javea – also known as Xabia in Valencian – is rapidly gaining a reputation as a "secret paradise" on the Costa Blanca. And according to local YouTuber 'Benidorm by Ana', who recently showcased the breathtaking spot in a video tour, it has become an absolute magnet for those seeking a better quality of life.
Flying her drone to capture the town's stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters, Ana revealed an astonishing demographic shift: more than half of Javea's permanent residents are now foreigners. British nationals lead the charge, making up a hefty 26% of the town's population.
"It's easy to see why so many people choose Javea to live here all year long," Ana observed. The biggest draw is undoubtedly the climate, with the town basking in an average of 320 days of sunshine a year.
But it isn't just the weather keeping expats happy; the thriving culinary scene offers everything from cheap and cheerful tapas to "authentic fancy restaurants with gorgeous views of the sea".
Those looking to truly embrace their new Spanish lifestyle have plenty of local delicacies to dive into.
Ditching standard paella for fideuà (a mouthwatering regional variation made with short pasta) is a rite of passage, alongside snacking on savoury cocas flatbreads and rich Cruet de Peix fish stew.
Despite the heavy international presence, Javea hasn't lost its soul. "It's a place where I would say tradition blends seamlessly with a modern touch," the creator concluded.
How to live like a local in Javea
If you are tempted to join the expat exodus, here is how you can spend your days soaking up the lifestyle:
Soak up the Old Town history: The modern beachfront is great, but expats know the real magic is in the historic quarter. Ana praised its undeniable "historic charm", with narrow, winding streets and gorgeous stone buildings providing a glimpse into traditional Spanish life.
Find your own private cove: The bustling sandy stretch of Playa del Arenal is perfect for families, but those in the know head for the coastline's hidden, rocky coves. Pack a snorkel and enjoy the crystal-clear waters far away from the main tourist trail.
Shop for fresh local produce: Skip the supermarket and head straight to Javea's bustling weekly markets. Located just a short distance from the sea, they are the perfect place to pick up authentic goods and fresh ingredients alongside your new neighbours.
Hike the spectacular coastline: Staying active is easy when you have the Mediterranean as your backdrop. The surrounding landscape is crisscrossed with brilliant coastal walks and lush forest trails offering sweeping, panoramic views.
