Every year, the Foundation for Environmental Education in Europe awards blue flags to certify the quality of beaches and ports in almost 50 countries and once again, Spain heads the list of countries with most blue flag beaches, having 696 such badges of honours flying from this June.
The area of Spain with the greatest growth compared to last year was Andalusia, which has 7 new blue flags along the Costa del Sol, while the Valencian Community consolidated itself as the region with the highest total number of flags, 132. In total, Spain has gained 11 new beaches with blue flags for this summer, and the best way to get to know them is with this route around the best beaches to be awarded a blue flag in 2018.
Virgen de la Nueva in the San Juan reservoir in Madrid
Many have said that Madrid would be the perfect city if only it had a beach. Well, now there’s something to celebrate: Madrid can proudly say that not only does it have a beach, but it has a blue flag beach! 2018 brings an award with it for the Playa Virgen de la Nueva beach, located in the western Madrid municipality of San Martín de Valdeiglesias, on the San Juan reservoir. This is the first blue flag in the history of the Community of Madrid and the 5th inland beach to be awarded in Spain.
The San Juan reservoir was built in 1955 to supply the southwest of the Community of Madrid with water and electricity from the Alberche River, a tributary of the Tagus. Today, the San Juan reservoir is the only one in the region where swimming and motorised water activities are allowed.
The Playa Virgen de la Nueva is a respite from the Madrid heat and it even has bars right on the beach, where you can stop for a refreshing drink on the sand. If you visit the area, don't miss other areas of the reservoir such as Cerro de San Esteban, on the right bank of the reservoir, and the San Yelmo barge on the left bank.
Find your holiday rental in San Martín de Valdeiglesias
Find property for sale in San Martín de Valdeiglesias
Playa de Los Álamos in Torremolinos
In the heart of the Costa del Sol, at the far end of the centre of Torremolinos, is the Playa de Los Alamos. It is a large beach with fine sand and room to plant the umbrella and towels, with relatively few people (as long as you don’t go in July or August). There’s a real family atmosphere that invites you to rest and relax.
It’s also great because it’s clean, it has showers and there’s plenty of parking spaces for the car. The water’s not so deep, so it’s good for the kids and those who don't swim too well.
While all of this is already enough to earn it the blue flag, it also has several beach bars nearby for a drink and some food.
Find your holiday rental in Torremolinos
Find property for sale in Torremolinos
Playa Cuberris in Cantabria
The Cantabrian coast in the north of Spain adds the Cuberris beach to its list of blue flags, located in the town of Ajo, in the municipality of Bareyo. This semi-urban beach has around 300 metres (1000 feet) of fine golden sand and stands out for the quality of its transparent waters, its sand and its green surroundings.
It doesn't usually have a high occupancy rate and is an area frequented mainly by surfers during the low season, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a tranquil and relaxing getaway.
Depending on the day you go, you may encounter big waves or strong gusts of wind, so be very careful when swimming.
Find your holiday rental in Bareyo
Find property for sale in Bareyo
Playa Tarajalejo in Fuerteventura
In the south of the Canary island of Fuerteventura is the small town of Tarajalejo, and the beach that bears its name has been awarded a blue flag this year.
This small beach with black (black!) sand is ideal for family outings or water sports. Visitors old and young are sure to marvel at this curious geological phenomenon formed from volcanic sand. Because of the direction of the currents, the water on this beach is usually very clean, despite the fact that it looks dark and muddied; just be careful with stones when entering.
Its strongest point is probably its isolated location, being away from the tourist whirlpool with only one little fishing village at one end. Oh, and don't miss the incredible sunsets!
Find your holiday rental in Tuineje
Find property for sale in Tuineje
Playa Terramar in Sitges
On the border between the provinces of Barcelona and Tarragona is Terramar beach, 400 metres (1300 feet) long, which in 2018 will carry a blue flag. Being urban, easy to access, well signposted and having a bus stop, it is very popular gets a lot of visitors.
Along its stretch of golden sand you can find any number of services for your enjoyment, from renting hammocks, parasols or nautical boats. Don't be afraid to let yourself be carried away by beautiful Sitges and its spectacular festive atmosphere.
Find your holiday rental in Sitges
Living on Mallorca: pros and cons, best areas and cost of living
Many dream about living on Mallorca for its superb climate, dreamlike landscapes and a great quality of life. However, making the decision to move to this Balearic island involves considering various aspects. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of life on Mallorca, the best areas to settle and the cost of living associated with this charming destination, which offers a wide variety of settings.
Living in Formentera: work, cost of living and where to live
Formentera is a destination with dream beaches, tranquility and a life away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. However, beyond its idyllic landscapes, living in Formentera involves a series of practical considerations that are fundamental when deciding to move to this Balearic island. For those looking for a change of scenery or wanting to enjoy island life, it is important to understand Formentera's work dynamics, marked by seasonality and tourism.
Madrid's most "instagrammable" hotel you just cannot miss
Just a few steps from Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, yet with a relaxed atmosphere, The Madrid Edition has become one of Madrid's most instagrammable hotels. It has become a must-see stop for tourists and locals seeking iconic spaces for the best photography opportunities while enjoying exquisite Latin American-inspired dishes. The Madrid Edition's interior was carefully curated with details that will not go unnoticed by those who decide to delight in its impressive rooms.
German chain The Flag opens first wellness hotel in Spain in Estepona
The German chain The Flag gives a twist to its luxury hotel on the Costa del Sol and launches its first 'wellness' accommodation concept in Spain. The four-storey hotel has 78 rooms, some of which are up to 70 m2 with a terrace and sea views, and offers several professional wellness programmes, and beauty and health treatments. The company operates in several countries, including Germany, Switzerland and the US, and has 19 properties with more than 2,500 apartments.
The 5 best neighbourhoods to live in Malaga with children
If you're considering moving to Malaga, you may have wondered which neighbourhood is best for you. If you're moving with children, it is normal to weigh up the different options and which one will adapt to the needs and preferences of your family. That's why we've prepared a list of the five best neighbourhoods in Malaga to live with children, from those with green spaces to others with the best services or that are ideal for beach-lovers. This city has an option for everyone.