It could be a property finder's nightmare:
Denia has a population of around 45,000, mostly Spanish - unlike some of its Costa Blanca neighbours - but with a strong international flavour deriving from its history as a Mediterranean port (it's the closest mainland point to the Balearics, and on a clear day, Ibiza can be spotted on the horizon from the Montgó road). Denia has a young population with at least 13 schools, as well as adult education options which include Spanish lessons - but don't worry, it's easy to find support from English-speaking professionals in most services.
(And if you’re feeling homesick, you can always pop to Javea, just half an hour away, where you can access anything from childcare to eye-tests via first-language English businesses).
Denia has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and there are both Roman and Iberian ruins to be found locally. The museum at Denia Castle curates much of this, and it's also a great spot from which to enjoy panoramic views of the ciudad and coast. Then you can stroll down through the town to visit a range of museums celebrating everything from anthropology to local fiestas to toys.
Every fiesta in Denia involves fireworks at some point!
Whilst the different areas of the town have merged in terms of building and development, they each enjoy their own distinct appearance and community, from the Fisherman's quarter to the pedestrianised historical old town to the outlying pueblos like La Pedrera. This friendly neighbourhood rivalry is reflected in fiestas such as the legendary Fallas every springtime, where local groups compete to create the most spectacular temporary sculptures.
There's no shortage of modern culture either, with a seasonal drive-in cinema just out town, new night-spots and restaurants springing up all over the marina, and live-streamed performances from the Royal Opera House at Condado - something for all tastes to enjoy.
As well as being the main ferry port for the Balearics, Denia has easy access to both Alicante and Valencia airports, being just over one hour’s drive from either - making it easy to compare and find the best value flights, from all over the world. The local Tram train down to Benidorm and Alicante is currently being upgraded and new station platforms installed - a major project which will connect Denia quickly to neighbouring towns. There is a local bus network, a direct private shuttle bus to Alicante airport, and ALSA bus connections to destinations across Spain.
When it comes to local services, Denia serves as a hub for many neighbouring towns, due to its history and location and being the judicial seat of the comarca of Marina Alta. Lots of local government administration, including all the paperwork you need as a new resident, is accessed right here - and there is also an excellent new public hospital just out of town on the road to the motorway.
Traditional food in Denia is much like in the rest of the Comunidad Valenciana. As well as paella other rice dishes are popular, and traditional tapas like tortilla, albondigas, and a delicious range of seafood is on offer, much of it fresh from the daily fish market. You can buy the local catch to prepare at home, along with everything else you need for a tasty local meal, in the central market hall - or, of course, from the many supermarkets located throughout the town, stocking everything from local produce to familiar international brands.
Food really matters to Denia, and there are various gastronomic festivals and tapas routes organised throughout the year to celebrate this great life pleasure. Tapas bars will post on chalk boards when they have fresh local sardines or the famed ‘red’ prawns of Denia available, to welcome the gourmet crowds.
And if fine dining is more your thing than tapas, Denia also boasts Quique Dacosta, one of only nine 3 Michelin-starred restaurants in Spain. Save up, and don’t eat for a week beforehand… If you want a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Views of Denia from one of the hiking tracks on Montgó
The Montgó mountain’s national park to the south create its own microclimate, making this one of the healthiest spots in the world according to the WHO - expect over 3000 hours of sunshine per year. It also offers stunning views from its many well-maintained and variously-graded hiking trails. If you prefer something less strenuous though, the flat Las Marinas area provides ample level walking and cycling opportunities, including a traffic-free Via Verde running through the orange groves to the neighbouring town of El Verger. Did you know, it’s traditionally allowed for any thirsty traveller to help themselves to a single orange? So many oranges trees grow in the area that when the wind is right in the springtime, the fragrance of the blossom is intoxicating.
There are plenty of gyms and sports teams in Denia, and if you want to get active on the water you can enjoy anything from sailing to Paragliding… Or just sit back and enjoy cruising along the coast, seeing the mountains and castle of Denia from a new perspective.
Oh, did you mention you liked beaches..? We like beaches too.
From snorkeling in rocky Las Rotas, to the natural golden sands of Las Marinas, Denia has miles of Blue-Flag beaches to choose from. Which will suit you best? You'll have to come and see for yourself.
"I'm looking for my dream Spanish home.
I don't want to live in a retirement community, but a real thriving multi-generational town with plenty of family life. Not somewhere which closes down in the winter. And no expat ghetto for me - but that said, I'd prefer an international community, where I can find help with the language issues and getting things done. Whilst I don't want to be in a big city, I like exploring on foot - but I'd probably find a tiny village too slow-paced, because I love history, art and culture. Somewhere with its own identity and neighbourhood appeals. I need good transport connections so my family and friends can easily visit, and I want good services schools and hospitals. I love traditional Spanish food - but I also like variety. Good shopping and thriving nightlife, and we also enjoy nature and the great outdoors, so we’re seeking a healthier climate.
Oh, and we love beaches and the sea too. Hope you can help!"
Dear Homeseeker, You should definitely come and take a look at Denia. I think you might just find your own piece of paradise right here on the Marina Alta. Let's see...
Thriving town, with international connections
Denia has a population of around 45,000, mostly Spanish - unlike some of its Costa Blanca neighbours - but with a strong international flavour deriving from its history as a Mediterranean port (it's the closest mainland point to the Balearics, and on a clear day, Ibiza can be spotted on the horizon from the Montgó road). Denia has a young population with at least 13 schools, as well as adult education options which include Spanish lessons - but don't worry, it's easy to find support from English-speaking professionals in most services.
(And if you’re feeling homesick, you can always pop to Javea, just half an hour away, where you can access anything from childcare to eye-tests via first-language English businesses).
Culture and history
Denia has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and there are both Roman and Iberian ruins to be found locally. The museum at Denia Castle curates much of this, and it's also a great spot from which to enjoy panoramic views of the ciudad and coast. Then you can stroll down through the town to visit a range of museums celebrating everything from anthropology to local fiestas to toys.
Every fiesta in Denia involves fireworks at some point!Transport and services
As well as being the main ferry port for the Balearics, Denia has easy access to both Alicante and Valencia airports, being just over one hour’s drive from either - making it easy to compare and find the best value flights, from all over the world. The local Tram train down to Benidorm and Alicante is currently being upgraded and new station platforms installed - a major project which will connect Denia quickly to neighbouring towns. There is a local bus network, a direct private shuttle bus to Alicante airport, and ALSA bus connections to destinations across Spain.
When it comes to local services, Denia serves as a hub for many neighbouring towns, due to its history and location and being the judicial seat of the comarca of Marina Alta. Lots of local government administration, including all the paperwork you need as a new resident, is accessed right here - and there is also an excellent new public hospital just out of town on the road to the motorway.
Food
Traditional food in Denia is much like in the rest of the Comunidad Valenciana. As well as paella other rice dishes are popular, and traditional tapas like tortilla, albondigas, and a delicious range of seafood is on offer, much of it fresh from the daily fish market. You can buy the local catch to prepare at home, along with everything else you need for a tasty local meal, in the central market hall - or, of course, from the many supermarkets located throughout the town, stocking everything from local produce to familiar international brands.
Food really matters to Denia, and there are various gastronomic festivals and tapas routes organised throughout the year to celebrate this great life pleasure. Tapas bars will post on chalk boards when they have fresh local sardines or the famed ‘red’ prawns of Denia available, to welcome the gourmet crowds.
And if fine dining is more your thing than tapas, Denia also boasts Quique Dacosta, one of only nine 3 Michelin-starred restaurants in Spain. Save up, and don’t eat for a week beforehand… If you want a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Nature and outdoors
Views of Denia from one of the hiking tracks on MontgóBeaches
Oh, did you mention you liked beaches..? We like beaches too.
From snorkeling in rocky Las Rotas, to the natural golden sands of Las Marinas, Denia has miles of Blue-Flag beaches to choose from. Which will suit you best? You'll have to come and see for yourself.