Torrevieja is embedded between golden sandy beaches with a clear blue sea and 2 salt lakes rich in flora and fauna. A former small fishing village, developed into a tourist attraction where many expats live, that’s Torrevieja!
History
In 1803, a Royal Decree granted permission for the construction of houses. Previously there were only a few salinero houses (people who work in salt extraction) and an old tower. Soon the first inhabitants arrived and, in addition to salt extraction, fishing became a major source of income.
In 1829, however, an enormous earthquake destroyed the entire village. But the inhabitants were not discouraged and immediately started rebuilding Torrevieja once again.
Salt production and trade flourished in 1931. Because the salt was mainly exported, the village opened its harbour in 1954. To this day, the Salinas de Torrevieja and La Mata still produce salt. Moreover, the salt production in this region is one of the most important in Europe.
Over the years, tourism has been the main source of income. The former fishing village has grown into a large city that is rich in nationalities.
The city
Torrevieja (‘old tower’) is a seaside resort located on the Costa Blanca, more precisely, 41km south of Alicante. It’s a lively city with a dynamic atmosphere. It has about 105.000 inhabitants, half of whom are foreign.
This is also noticeable in everyday life. There are many restaurants that offer traditional dishes, or shops with the best products from different cultures. You’ll also notice how easy it is to communicate in hospitals and medical centres, or to visit a dentist in your own language.
Torrevieja comprises several residential areas. 9 main areas can be distinguished, all well equipped with local cafes, restaurants and shops.
The region is very popular with tourists and residents for the microclimate. The average annual temperature is 21 degrees Celsius. On top of that there are about 300 to 330 days of sunshine per year. The mountains stretch 10 to 15 km inland, where the coastal area shifts into a hilly area.
The mountainous area combined with the large salt lakes, the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean make the clouds evaporate above Torrevieja. The clouds there can often be seen around the inland mountains, but the coastal area remains sunny.
Your health matters!
In April 2006, Torrevieja was awarded as one of the healthiest areas of the world to live in, according to the World Health Organisation. As described above, the microclimate ensures pleasant temperatures. We all know that nice, warm weather and sun lift our state of mind. People suffering from heart problems, asthma, arthritis and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis will acknowledge the positive effects of the climate on their health condition.
Apart from the sunny climate, it’s not surprising that the World Health Organisation has chosen this region. Torrevieja is surrounded by two of Europe’s largest salt lakes and there is no industrial pollution.
In short, the great outdoors with fresh air full of iodine benefits your health!
Sun, sea and beach
This tourist attraction has a 20-km long coastline. This coastline has several beaches and bays, each with its own characteristics.
You will find the beautiful and wide, sandy beach of La Mata here.
Furthermore, this coastal strip has a wide range of restaurants, shops and beach bars.
More information about all beaches can be found here.
Shopping? Always a great idea!
You can enjoy a great day of shopping in Torrevieja. In the centre, there are a number of specialty stores and boutiques that focus on the more expensive brands such as Philip Plein, Kenzo, Gucci, etc.
It’s delightful to walk around and enjoy a delicious tapa or pastry.
Those who want to go shopping big-time, and enjoy a wide range of products can go to the “Habaneras”. It’s a medium-sized shopping centre (3 floors) where larger chains as Zara, Pull & Bear, H&M, Massimo Dutti, etc. have their stores.
It’s considerably calmer than the large shopping centre “Zenia Boulevard”, making it very pleasant to shop, even during the busy season.
A sporty city
Many of Torrevieja’s inhabitants practice sports and for the city this is an important issue. There’s a total of 300.000 m2 reserved for sports facilities.
For example, a large 80.000 m2 sports complex has been built with a heated Olympic swimming pool, athletic track, gym and polyvalent rugby field with a capacity of 3.000 spectators.
Spain is known for football, so this is certainly not lacking here either. Torrevieja has a municipal football stadium called “Vincente Garcia” and two football pitches with artificial turf, 4 spectator stands, dressing rooms, etc.
On top of that there are 10 tennis courts, a centre court, 8 padel courts and a cafeteria.
Finally, the city has a wide range of fitness centres, walking and cycling routes, water sports activities, etc. In short, sports enthusiasts will feel in heaven with all of these facilities.
Property
Looking for real estate in Torrevieja? Check out our range of apartments, houses and villas for sale, both new and existing properties.
Z-Yachting & Golf Estates already has more than 16 years of experience in real estate at the Costa Blanca.
Our international employees are driven to find the home of your dreams.
