Aerial view of Calpe and Peñón de Ifach on Costa Blanca North
Region Guide

Costa Blanca North

Where mountains meet the Mediterranean. Jávea, Moraira, Altea, Calpe, Denia — Spain's most prestigious coastal address with properties from €220,000 to €3.5M+.

6
Major Towns
€220k–€3.5M
Price Range
320+
Sunny Days
50-90 min
From Airport

Spain's Most Prestigious Coast

Costa Blanca North stretches from Denia south to Benidorm, where the mountains of the Marina Alta and Marina Baixa plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean. This is not mass-tourism territory — this is where discerning buyers seek authentic Mediterranean living among traditional villages, dramatic cliffs, and some of Europe's most beautiful coastline.

From the old town charm of Altea to the sailing haven of Jávea, from the boutique sophistication of Moraira to the iconic Peñón de Ifach in Calpe, Costa Blanca North offers a Mediterranean lifestyle that has attracted international residents for decades. The region combines Spanish authenticity with international convenience, natural beauty with cultural richness.

Prices are higher here than in the south — but for many, the dramatic landscapes, established communities, and refined atmosphere justify the premium. Properties hold value well and the quality of life is genuinely exceptional.

Choose Your Town

Six Distinct Destinations

Each town on Costa Blanca North has its own personality. From cosmopolitan Jávea to gastronomic Denia — explore them all with aerial photography and insider knowledge.

Aerial view of Jávea (Xàbia)
Premium & cosmopolitan

Jávea (Xàbia)

Three distinct zones — historic old town, bustling port, and the family-friendly Arenal sandy beach. Home to 50% international population with established infrastructure and year-round lifestyle. WHO-recognized microclimate beneath the mighty Montgó mountain.

Sandy beach (rare in the north)
Montgó Natural Park
50% international population
La Granadella — Spain's best cove
Price range: €280,000–€4,500,000
Best for: Families, permanent residents, established communities
Aerial view of Moraira
Boutique & refined

Moraira

Boutique coastal town with an upmarket feel, picturesque marina, and quality restaurants lining a small golden-sand beach. Popular with German and Scandinavian buyers seeking refinement without pretension. Moraira's Castle of Moraira and El Portet cove define the town's charm.

Intimate sandy beach
El Portet cove
Upmarket dining scene
German & Scandinavian community
Price range: €350,000–€3,000,000
Best for: Quality seekers, sailing enthusiasts, discerning buyers
Aerial view of Altea
Cultural & artistic

Altea

The most beautiful old town on Costa Blanca — white-washed buildings cascading down a hillside toward the sea, crowned by the blue-domed Nuestra Señora del Consuelo church. Artists, musicians, and culture lovers gravitate to Altea's year-round events, galleries, and authentic Mediterranean atmosphere.

Most photogenic old town
Blue-domed church
Artists' quarter
Year-round cultural events
Price range: €300,000–€1,500,000
Best for: Culture lovers, old town living, artists
Aerial view of Calpe
Beach & active

Calpe

Dominated by the iconic Peñón de Ifach — a 332-meter rock jutting from the sea that is the symbol of Costa Blanca. Calpe offers excellent sandy beaches, a lively restaurant scene centred on its fishing port, and the most accessible pricing on the northern coast. The dramatic rock creates a unique visual identity.

Peñón de Ifach — iconic landmark
Sandy beaches both sides
Best value in the north
Fish restaurants at the port
Price range: €220,000–€1,200,000
Best for: Beach lovers, foodies, value in the north
Aerial view of Denia
Historic & gastronomic

Denia

Historic port town guarded by an 11th-century Moorish castle, with ferry connections to Ibiza and Mallorca. Denia is the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy — home to Michelin-starred restaurants and the gateway to Montgó Natural Park. Less touristy than its coastal neighbors, with a strong local identity.

Moorish castle
Ferry to Ibiza & Mallorca
UNESCO gastronomy city
Montgó hiking
Price range: €250,000–€1,500,000
Best for: History lovers, boating, authentic Spain, gastronomy
Aerial view of Benissa
Hidden gem

Benissa

Between Calpe and Moraira, Benissa offers a spectacular 4km coastal path along dramatic cliffs with hidden coves. The inland old town retains medieval charm with Gothic architecture. A quieter, more authentic alternative for buyers who want coast access without the tourist infrastructure.

4km coastal walking path
Dramatic cliff coves
Medieval old town
Between Calpe and Moraira
Price range: €280,000–€1,800,000
Best for: Privacy seekers, cliff-top villas, nature lovers
Natural Beauty

Mountains, Cliffs & Hidden Coves

The dramatic landscape is what sets Costa Blanca North apart. Protected natural parks, cliff walks, and mountain trails create scenery that rivals any Mediterranean coastline.

Jávea–Denia

Montgó Natural Park

753m mountain with hiking trails and 360° views to Ibiza. Protected endemic plant species and dramatic cliff faces.

Calpe

Peñón de Ifach

332m iconic rock — symbol of Costa Blanca. Nature reserve with hiking path to the summit.

Jávea

Cabo de la Nao

Easternmost point of mainland Spain. Lighthouse, cliff walks, and Mediterranean views stretching to the Balearic Islands.

Jávea

La Granadella Beach

Pristine cliff cove consistently rated among Spain's most beautiful beaches. Crystal water and pine-backed scenery.

Benidorm–Altea

Serra Gelada

Cliff-side natural park with walking trails, fossil dunes, and sea views between the two towns.

Callosa d'en Sarrià

Les Fonts de l'Algar

Mountain waterfalls and natural pools inland — a refreshing day trip from any coastal town.

Property Market Overview

Costa Blanca North is the premium end of the market. Prices reflect desirable locations, established infrastructure, and limited supply. Properties here tend to be larger, better-built, and hold value well. The market attracts quality-focused buyers rather than bargain hunters.

Property TypePrice Range
Apartments€220,000–€600,000
Townhouses€300,000–€800,000
Villas€450,000–€3,500,000
Luxury Estates€2,000,000+
Browse All Costa Blanca North Properties →

Golf on the Northern Coast

Quality golfing in spectacular settings with sea and mountain views. From Olazábal's La Sella to Nicklaus's Villaitana — world-class design meets Mediterranean scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Costa Blanca North more expensive than Costa Blanca South?
The north developed earlier, has more dramatic scenery with mountains meeting the sea, stronger Spanish character, and limited developable land. Established communities and infrastructure maintain premium prices. Many buyers consider it worth the premium for the landscape, authenticity, and lifestyle quality.
What is the best town in Costa Blanca North?
Jávea offers the best all-round package: three distinct areas, excellent infrastructure, 50% international community, and year-round lifestyle. Moraira suits those seeking boutique refinement. Altea appeals to culture lovers. Calpe offers the best value. Denia attracts history and gastronomy enthusiasts. Each town has a distinct character — visits are essential before deciding.
Is Costa Blanca North suitable for year-round living?
Excellent for permanent residence. Towns like Jávea and Denia have large year-round populations, full services, established communities, and a mild climate. Winters are warmer than Northern Europe (12–18°C) with some rain. Summer is warm (25–32°C) but less intense than further south. The international community ensures English-speaking services, social activities, and cultural events throughout the year.
How far is Costa Blanca North from Alicante Airport?
Drive times from Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC): Benidorm 50 minutes, Altea 60 minutes, Calpe 70 minutes, Jávea and Moraira 75–80 minutes, Denia 90 minutes via the AP-7 motorway. Valencia Airport (VLC) offers an alternative for Denia (60 minutes) and Jávea (90 minutes).
Can I live without a car in Costa Blanca North?
A car is strongly recommended. Towns are spread across hilly terrain, public transport is limited between towns, and many properties are in hillside urbanizations. The TRAM connects Benidorm to Alicante, and local buses exist within larger towns, but for the lifestyle Costa Blanca North offers, driving is essential.
How does Costa Blanca North compare to the French Riviera or Mallorca?
Costa Blanca North offers similar dramatic coastline and premium lifestyle at a fraction of the price. Properties are 50–70% less expensive than equivalent positions on the Côte d'Azur and 30–40% less than prime Mallorca. The climate is comparable, the infrastructure is excellent, and the international community is well-established.
What is the rental potential in Costa Blanca North?
Holiday rentals perform well in summer, with quality villas commanding €1,500–€4,000 per week. However, the market is less investment-driven than the south — most buyers seek lifestyle rather than yield. Long-term rental demand exists from established residents. Gross yields of 3–5% are typical for quality properties.
Are there international schools?
Yes. Xàbia International College (XIC) in Jávea offers British curriculum (GCSE, A-Levels). The Lady Elizabeth School near Denia is another British curriculum option. Laude Newton College serves the wider region. Spanish public schools throughout the area welcome international children with integration support programs.

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