European town favoured by British expats is just 6 miles from Benidorm but much prettier

From the sun-soaked costas to the charming inland villages, has long been a favourite escape for British expats looking for a better quality of life, a warmer climate, and that irresistible laid-back lifestyle. Popular spots like the , Alicante, and the Balearic Islands have become well-trodden territory, home to thriving expat communities.

But as these hotspots become busier, more and more Brits are branching out in search of quieter corners of Spain that still offer the magic - without the crowds. Tucked away from radiant skyscrapers, favoured by expatriates, lies the idyllic town of La Nucia, a name that charmingly translates to "delicious" from Spanish. Described as the perfect retreat, La Nucia comes highly recommended by foreign property experts at Kyero.

Nestled in a picturesque valley just shy of six miles northwards of Benidorm, La Nucia boasts around 18,000 residents and the average house price hovers at £300,000 (349,000 euros), per insights from Kyero.

With its lush orchards, pinewoods, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, this traditional village, perched on a promontory, combines coastal living with the peace of a mountain retreat.

Framed by the majestic Puig Campana mountains, the town is surrounded by small settlements that are said by Kyero to draw both international expats and local Spaniards alike.

La Nucia, while not directly on the coast, offers convenient access to a variety of beautiful beaches along Spain's Costa Blanca. Situated just a short drive from both Benidorm and Altea, residents and visitors can enjoy numerous seaside options within a 10 to 15-minute journey.

A short drive from Alicante and Valencia, La Nucia's diverse community includes people from Spain, Britain, Germany, France, The Netherlands, and Scandinavia.

Visitors and locals can wander through quaint townhouses, villas, and apartments peppering its streets. Amenities include several supermarkets and a weekly market on Sundays, not to mention a splendid 27-hole golf course within close proximity.

Hotelsbenidorm.com has recognised La Nucia as one of the six notable spots near Benidorm that tourists should make a point to visit.

The town's pristine natural surroundings are praised by the site, pointing to it as an ideal destination for hiking aficionados, offering trails suitable for both seasoned hikers and beginners according to hotelsbenidorm.com.

While Kyero indicates that La Nucia may not be the most economical option in Costa Blanca, its selection of shops and closeness to Benidorm provides a comfortable lifestyle "within a budget".

For educational needs, La Nucia is home to Spanish state schools and Elian's, offering bilingual education for the younger demographic.

As per the Spanish Tourist Board, La Nucia is renowned not only for its bustling second-hand goods market but also for its vibrant fiestas honouring the Holy Conception in August and the San Rafael festivities come November.

Accommodation options in La Nucia are plentiful, with Hostal Sunami, Casa Alice, Casa Rural and Hostal Kaizen among the top picks listed on booking.com.

The town is also home to the Michelin-starred restaurant El Xato, a family-run establishment celebrated as "the most prestigious restaurant in the Marina Baixa area.

Michelin has said the staff go above and beyond to ensure that diners "arrive as guests but leave as friends".

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Cristina Figueira, who, with the support of her husband Francisco Cano, showcases an "inexhaustible spirit". Her exceptional skills have earned her a reputation as "one of the most outstanding cooks" in the region, particularly for her "mastery" of Alicante cuisine, as noted by Michelin.