Menorca: The exclusive untouched gem of the Balearic Islands

2018-08-22

Stephen Penn, content editor at Abode2, takes a look at how Menorca is rising up the ranks and becoming a hot investment spot for a unique Balearic experience When thinking about the Balearic Islands it’s easy to stereotype them as vibrant party islands, but one island has retained its quiet Mediterranean charm over the years, and is now becoming the place to invest. In the 1970s, the majority of the Balearic Islands jumped headfirst into package holidays and nightclub tourism, giving them the stellar reputation of being premiere holiday hotspots. Menorca, however, resisted this transformation at the time, preferring to remain under the radar in terms of mass holiday appeal. Today, this has proven to be a smart decision, as it stands as an unspoilt Mediterranean haven and it’s property market is now gaining traction for its rugged shoreline, punctuated by small bays with white sand beaches on an aquamarine sea, and a generally laid-back lifestyle. Known as the ‘green’ island, it was named a Unesco Biosphere zone in 1993 to protect its cultural heritage, countryside and coastline. Menorca’s homes are held in high esteem for boasting immaculate drystone walls and rustic-chic gates made from wild olive wood – as anything bling is frowned upon by the local authorities. “Menorca reminds people of what the Mediterranean used to be like 40 years ago,” says Francisco Arnau of Engel & Völkers. “It’s relaxed and peaceful.” This air of exclusivity doesn’t come cheap however, as due to prices for the most attractive properties - on the beach or with sea views - are up 15 per cent year-on-year due to the limits on property numbers. This is seeing a boost, however, as 18th-century palacios in its former capital Ciutadella are being swept up by eagle‑eyed investors to be turned into sophisticated boutique hotels and a number of developers are casting their sights on the island to create more seasonal summer homes. This growing potential is bringing more and more people to the market, including the Balearics Sotheby’s International Realty team, which is now offering international and local clients a selection of high quality properties throughout the island. “We monitored the Menorcan market for some time and observed the increase in value of properties and land, boosted by the rapid growth in demand,” says Alejandra Vanoli, managing director of Balearics Sotheby’s International Realty. “We realised this unique and beautiful island had huge potential as the island in the Balearics with the biggest growth opportunity.” The vast majority of buyers on the island tend to be those in their later years, meaning that despite growing numbers, it has retained a more elegant and relaxing lifestyle. There are limitations however, as most who come do so between Easter and October, as the island still remains seasonal. “One of the downsides to Menorca, but which has helped to maintain its charm, is the lack of flights in the winter – they mostly drop down to weekly services,” says Colin Guanaria, a quantity surveyor on the island. Summer access is improving, though, with increased routes from Britain – as British Airways is now operating a route from Edinburgh and Jet2 has started a new route from London Stansted. According to Spain’s national airline database, Menorca Airport now receives around 1.5 million visitors per year. This is still a fraction compared to the 10 million tourists Mallorca welcomes each year, but it is clear that Menorca is rising to become the hottest place to invest in property. For more property insights, go to abode2.com

Positive vibes for Marbella´s property market

2018-07-18

The allure of sun-soaked Marbella is strong, and it’s having an extremely positive impact on the property market. Stephen Penn, content editor of Abode2 spoke to a local real estate agency to get the findings from their latest property market report. Across the board, virtually every indicator of activity of the Marbella property market and its economy is positive. Last year, the increase in sales volume was a healthy 6.9%, rising to 4275 properties sold during 2017. In addition, tourism - the main source for real estate sales - is breaking records, both nationally and locally, with hotels being built and old ones refurbished. Rental prices increased 20.8% from January 2017 to January 2018, and 924 new companies (discounting those which closed) were formed in Marbella in 2017. The evidence is clear that property prices are creeping upwards, and Spanish buyers are returning to the market place. Of the foreign buyers of property in Andalucia, those from the UK represent 21.5%, followed by the Swedes at 11.6% and the Belgians at 8.11%. Although the UK demand for property in this area has diminished slightly from 26.82% in 2016, the UK market is showing surprising resilience and remains the most important single market for purchasing property in Andalucia and in all of Spain. A few ultra-prime areas in Marbella have doubled in price since the bottom of the market in 2011, whereas other areas in the municipality still offer properties for sale at below pre-crisis levels. The property sales volume in the province of Malaga is double that of the Balearic Islands, and in fourth place in Spain behind Madrid, Barcelona and Alicante. But what is it that draws so many people to this sun-soaked city? Since Marbella started to become popular in the mid-1950s when the Marbella Club Hotel opened, a policy of low density, low rise construction and ample green zones have all played a part in making Marbella stand out today as an oasis of quality, compared to the overdeveloped growth corridors of the Spanish Costas. There are more than 40 golf courses within a 30-minutes’ drive from Marbella. Located at Europe’s southernmost tip, the area boasts more than 320 days of sunshine a year and has the best weather in all of the continent. With these contributory factors and a core population in the municipality in the winter months of around 300,000 people, Marbella now has a twelve-month season, with its high and low periods, compared to the strictly seasonal nature of many Mediterranean resort cities, rolling up the sidewalks at the end of September and gradually coming back to life at the end of March. Marbella also has a unique lifestyle which permits one to enter into the various strata of Marbella society or simply sit back and enjoy the climate, the incredible light which artists always enthuse about, the warmth and genuineness of the Spanish people, the outstanding nature surrounding the area. To get the latest property news, visit www.abode2.com

Embrace the pleasure principle at Pikes

2018-06-15

Ibiza’s ultimate hostelry of hedonism – Pikes Hotel may have embraced a wonderland makeover under the infamous Ibiza Rocks brand - but it’s still an island must, as Laura Henderson, the Managing Editor of Abode2, discovers. Nestled a few miles away from the drink-party-repeat clubbing scene of San Antonio - Pikes has played host to many a fast-living celebrity Mick Jagger, George Michael, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Grace Jones... I could go on. As absurdly decadent destinations go – the hotel is hard to equal. Th ink dazzling disco balls above the pool, walk-in costume closet and wall-mounted zebras. Did I mention the hot-pink tennis court or Freddie Mercury karaoke bathroom? Having been lovingly restored in 2011 since its takeover by Ibiza Rocks founders Andy McKay and Dawn Hindle – the couple have successfully created a modern incarnation of an old school classic, completely returning the estate to its former glory. The story of the let-your-hair-down establishment however wouldn’t be complete without reference to the former owner of the 15th century finca Tony Pike - a one-time yachtsman, model, actor, and raffish gigolo who converted the property into a resort synonymous with Hawaiian Tropic tanning days and wild nights that live long in the memory. Fast forward to present day and the property’s new life chapter hasn’t diminished any of its push the boundaries personality. For the third year running, the hotel has scooped prestigious awards at the 2017 ‘White Ibiza Best of Ibiza Readers’ Choice Awards including Best Boutique Hotel 2017. Accommodation has a whimsical character and rustic Balearic feel, with décor that gives a nod to the hotel’s party on roots with added extras such as vintage record players and sunken bathtubs. Rooms are dotted around the estate, linked by a web of paths and gardens where you might encounter a garden gnome or inflatable crocodile. The Ca Pietra Spanish tiled floors have been glammed up with cowhide rugs and guests can keep the boho vibe going by day by lounging on the porch in 70s style rattan peacock chairs or by the pool on over-sized sun loungers. Foodies are unlikely to go hungry either. Head chef Lee Milne who has worked at award-winning restaurants including ‘Restaurant Gordon Ramsay’ and ‘The Vineyard at Stockcross’ has established ‘Room 39’ as one of the best restaurants in Ibiza, with daily mouth-watering ‘House specials’ along with an extensive à la carte menu and sublime individually chosen wine list. A weekend institution drawing those in-the-know is the ‘Sunday Roast’ - starting with poolside Bloody Mary’s followed by a traditional English-style roast with all the trimmings. The hotel’s next stage outing is certainly in safe and creative hands - Dawn and Andy co-founders of Manumission, the biggest and most famous club night in the world that launched in 1993, boasted over 1.5 million visitors. In 2005, they spotted the shift in youth culture and launched the Ibiza Rocks brand that many argue - has pioneered the social rejuvenation of the island. Says Andy: “The hotel is one of the few places that still represents the authentic, carefree, Balearic spirit of the Ibiza. As we so often say to guests - the only danger of booking Pikes is that once you check in, you’ll never want to check out…” PIKES HOTEL – FAST FACTS • The hotel is named as one of the ‘Top 100 Hotels in the world’ by Sunday Times Travel. • There are 25 comfortable and spacious rooms and junior suites to the gorgeous vast apartment ‘La Residencia’, with walls hung with stunning photographic images by Victor Spinelli and other artists. • For the Zen-minded - there’s a whirlpool tub, a variety of massages, fitness and yoga classes offered in the ‘Rockovery’ tent.

La moda española: Spanish fashion brands to add to your wardrobe

2018-06-06

When you think of fashion, which countries spring to mind? France, Italy? The question is, should you be adding Spain to that list? For those that have already travelled to some of Spain's major cities to check out the shopping potential, the answer is an obvious yes! Spanish fashion continues to find new ground and new fans, from high street fast-fashion to high-end designers flying the fashion flag for Spain. Perhaps the most obvious Spanish designer or name to look out for is Zara. Hailing from Galicia, and part of the Inditex group, Zara is known across the world for its affordable adaptations of catwalk designer dresses, trousers and looks. With prices in Spain typically lower than in northern European countries, Zara is definitely worth popping into several times when on holiday in Spain. Styles and stock change weekly and they operate a slick turnkey buying process with a lot of their production taking place in Portugal and Morocco, perfect to ship in new designs that are a quick reaction to the latest high street and catwalk trends. For the younger and older ends of the Zara spectrum check out Stradivarius and Uterque. Stradivarius targets a younger market with staples such as jeans, slogan t-shirts and faux leather jackets a guaranteed fixture on their shelves. Uterque is all about fine tailoring, unusual jewellery and top knotch shoes. Aimed at an older than Zara market, a combination of the two names works well for us. With over 150 years' heritage, Loewe is well-known in Spain for classic leather bags, high-end accessories and ready-to-wear clothes. Now part of the LVMH group, Loewe is often seen on Queen Sofia and remains true to its founding country -its leather goods are all made in Spain. If you're a true high street fan then Mango should be a definite port of call. Like its rival Zara, you can snap up a bargain by shopping in their Spanish shops compared to their northern European counterparts. Leather jackets, basics and limited run dresses all form part of the classic Mango wardrobe. Nice Things offers a high street approach to Spanish fashion with higher end styles and prices. A more boutique feel welcomes you into their shops with their strengths lying in patterned tops, wide-leg trousers and blouses. Founded in 1995 this is a relatively young company and its collections reflect the upbeat approach to fashion and the designs you'll find in its stores. Finally, a mention for Bimba y Lola, a fashion focused brand well known in Spain for chunky jewellery, affordable leather purses and handbags and adaptable wardrobe staples. Invest in one of their handbags, you won't regret it! If you are looking for a holiday home for sale in Spain with easy access to Spain's top fashion brands, we recommend the Costa del Sol or Costa del Maresme, for the best shops with the latest from the best Spanish designers on your doorstep. Sources Photo by Pete Bellis on Unsplash Telegraph.co.uk/fashion/brands/best-spanish-brands/ Independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/fashion-beauty/best-spanish-fashion-brands-uk-a7395851.html

Evoking Ibiza´s party scene with bespoke art

2018-05-21

A scene-stealer for its Balearic-Beat coastline and high-octane nightlife, Ibiza is perhaps best known as the world’s premier dance music destination. White Isle resident and clubbing aficionado, Nick Pagett is honouring this heritage through art.  A thumping baseline is the ubiquitous heartbeat of life on the vibrant island of Ibiza, a sun-kissed getaway that has morphed from its bohemian roots into an extravagant, wild-spirited party Mecca. Disco fiends, celebrities and party hungry revellers arrive in droves over the summer to be swept up in the island’s outrageous party culture and to bake on its warm sands. But while the pristine coastline and stunning panoramic views continue to draw an ever more cosmopolitan crowd, it’s the vintage vibe and soul-seeking heritage that have honed its true character. That is certainly the opinion of UK business entrepreneur and White Isle resident, Nick Pagett, who has set up his own art business to help spread a little island nostalgia wherever you happen to be. First visiting in 2006, Nick was immediately hooked and soon set up a late-night food emporium for the leading nightclubs on the island, including Amnesia, DC10, Eden, El Divino and the Zoo Project. “I’ve travelled to 65 countries but there’s nowhere that tugs at the heart strings quite like Ibiza,” says Nick. “There’s such a diverse music range, so much going on for people of all ages, tastes and persuasions. “During the 50s, the island saw the likes of Denholm Elliot, Diana Rigg, Terry Thomas and a gaggle of young aristocrats take up residence. When Laurie Olivier pulled up in 1965, Ibiza’s reputation as the cool crew’s hangout was sealed. It was these trailblazing non-conformists who paved the way for the flower children of the late 60s. “From the hippies in the 70s at Benirras, through to the different genres of Acid House in the late 80s, the raves, famous DJs, the debauchery of Manumission, the golden era of Ibiza and the iconic clubs, there has always been something special for everyone here, whatever type of let-your-hair-down party you’re in to.” After purchasing his first home on the island in 2016, Nick found himself perusing art galleries and shops looking for pieces to adorn his white walls but came up empty. He says: “The island has such a vibrant history. I couldn’t believe that the artwork available didn’t reflect this colourful heritage.” This realisation sparked a brainwave, and Nick set about commissioning local artists and sourcing imagery to create bespoke pieces of art that not only tell the story of the island, but also capture the feeling of being there. “So much has happened on the island and there’s such an intense sense of nostalgia from all the millions of parties, clubbers that have visited over the years,” he explains. “I wanted to use art to recreate that vibe, to give people a way of bringing that vitality and life into their homes.” Nick teamed up with long-time friend and art enthusiast, Aaron Pope, and started work on creating a series of authentic paintings using local talented artists. This has since become his latest business venture, DJ Art Ibiza. “We have put huge efforts into sourcing nostalgic images and creating paintings that stir your emotions and bring back the feelings and memories you have of your time clubbing here, whether it be a great DJ, a chilled sunset, queuing outside a club or the atmosphere of a wild party,” he says. “We’re collaborating with five keynote island artists who specialize in different genres, including the renowned Karina Danchu and Carlos Genicio. It’s a show-stopping collection that’s already attracting attention not just from island residents and clubbing fans but art collectors seeking something a little different.” The work features well-known DJs David Guetta, Tiesto and Carl Cox, as well as iconic clubs like Pacha and Space. There are also paintings from memorable parties throughout history, ideal for a vibrant space, and even island landscapes, for a more holistic addition to the home. Original works of art are available for sale, as well as highquality canvas prints in various ‘ready-to-go’ sizes. Private commissions are also undertaken. Adds Nick: “Nowhere captures the clubbing scene with such clued-up originality as Ibiza. Yet for such a tiny island - it’s culturally sophisticated and outrageously picturesque too. Depicting its multiple personalities on canvas is a true privilege.” To find out more visit www.DJ-ART-IBIZA.com, email [email protected] or see exhibitions at various beach clubs over the island this By Laura Henderson of Abode2

May in Córdoba

2018-05-05

Córdoba's events calendar comes alive in May, just before the real heat of the Andalucian summer arrives. May starts with the patio festival. A lot of the older buildings in the town centre in Córdoba have a central patio, a feature of Cordoban houses that was inherited from the Romans but proliferated by the Moors. Patios were a shaded area which could be, and still are, decorated to keep cool but look attractive at the same time. Water features and flowers are the norm, with jasmine and orange blossom being the main plants you will find in these wonderful peaceful areas. Approximately 50 patios take part in the patio festival and some even open during siesta time. Once the patio festival is over it's time to party Cordoban style at the Feria de Mayo. Held at the El Arenal fairground, the annual Feria de Mayo sees the Cordobeses come out to shake their gladrags in style. You will soon get used to the sight of Cordoban men in the traditional hat and Cordoban women dressed in Flamenco dresses, dancing to Sevillanas with their friends, chatting and catching up over a glass of the local Manzanilla sherry and tapas. Initially a celebaton of Nuestra Señora de la Salud (Our Lady of Good Health), the Feria de Mayo is now the place to be seen and to meet friends for locals and foreigners alike. Local groups hire casetas (stands) and play Flamenco and Sevillanas music for those who want to dance like a local, and serve traditional food throughout the day and evening. For those who like the pomp and circumstance of a festival, there is a horse parade and firework displays as well as traditional gypsy costumes aplenty on show for Andalucia is the homeland of Federico Garcia Lorca's Romancero Gitano or gypsy ballads. We also recommend a walk along the Guadalquivir River, the fifth longest river in the Iberian Peninsular and the second longest in Spain and a visit to Córdoba's mezquita, a Catholic cathedral/mosque which holds a mass every morning at 9.30 am and twice a day on Sundays. If you own a holiday home on the Costa del Sol, Córdoba is very easy to get to on the AVE train from central Malaga. With a travel time of less than one hour, you can be in central Córdoba before lunchtime!  Sources: Mezquitadecordoba.org/cabildo-mezquita-cordoba.asp Andalucia.com/cities/cordoba/patios.htm Cordoba24.info/english/

Tourism cap could quash Mallorca´s all-time high tourism demand

2018-04-26

Stephen Penn, content editor at Abode2, takes a closer look at the impact of the tourism cap sweeping the Balearic Islands: Demand for holiday homes in Mallorca is at an all-time high, but thanks to caps on tourism rentals, there are strong concerns the supply cannot keeping up – as 3,620 accommodation places leave the market. Over the past two years, the number of people looking for exclusive holiday rental properties on the Balearic Islands has soared, with people looking more and more for ‘hidden’ locations on the sun-swept hotspots of Mallorca and Ibiza. In a bid to offer these private getaways, more and more property owners on the islands have been offering their homes to short-stay tourists, in order to capitalise on this demand. Rental prices have risen by double digits over the past few years due to the popularity of shared homes via sites such as San Francisco-based Airbnb, which in turn has priced has many locals out of the market. "The living situation has become unsustainable due to the increase in people using digital accommodation brokers such as Airbnb,” explains Vincent Torres, the general manager of the City of Ibiza Council’s tourism department. “We want to shift the housing situation to benefit long-term residents of the island, as things have spiralled over the past few summers – to no one’s benefit." In a bid to combat this issue and equal the playing field for locals and tourists, last year the government introduced a new law, enforcing a cap of 623,624 beds that can be used for tourists, as well as stricter enforcement of property owners having a DRIAT (Documento de Responsibilidad de Inicio de Actividad de Turismo) license for apartments and EVT (Estancia Turística en Viviendas) licenses for villas. The EVT licenses have been a requirement for years on the islands, allows owners of villas, fincas and chalets to advertise and let out their properties to tourists for short periods of time. These licenses come with restrictions, including properties having no more than 6 bedrooms and a bathroom for every three guests. DRIAT licenses for apartments are harder to come by. A spokesman for Engel & Volker’s explained to Abode2 that apartments cannot be rented out for holiday lets of less than one month, unless they are in existing designated buildings where there is a tourist license for the building. For years apartment owners have circumvented these rules, but now the government is cracking down and those who let out their apartments or villas without the correct paperwork, run the risk of being slapped with a serious fine. In addition to this, as of July last year, in a bid to tackle the ever-growing prices of rentals in places like Mallorca and Ibiza, a moratorium was put in place, meaning no new licenses will be issued until July 2018. Those with existing licenses will not be affected at the present time. This movement has been welcomed by a number of property rental companies, including Engel & Volkers. “For the local government, the main problem has been focused on the apartment market. It is important to understand that renting out apartments for short term holiday lets (under 1 month) is and always has been illegal in this region of Spain,” explains Dominique Carroll from Engel & Volkers. “Now, as the local government have introduced large fines of up to fines of up to €400,000 for platforms offering illegal housing, and fines of up to €40,000 for private owners, people will think twice about doing this.” Since the holiday rentals legislation came into force, 574 properties with 3,620 accommodation places have been removed from the market. But some have hit out at the impact this will have on companies like Airbnb, which is currently in a legal battle over an alleged breach of the regulations, as well as working class families who rely on rental income. "We strongly believe that rules in the Balearic Islands should help spread tourism benefits to local families and their communities - not keep them in the hands of a wealthy few,” says a spokesman for Airbnb. Despite this opposition, the change has been celebrated by the government. Tourism minister Bel Busquets publically stated last month that the reduction in illegal homes has been a ‘positive move’ and that it is fundamental to the objective of ‘changing the economic model’ of the Balearics. Other Spanish cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville and Valencia, have taken note from this change and have either passed laws, or are examining regulation, to curb tourism rentals via the sites because of their effects on local rental prices. For the latest property news and insights, visit www.abode2.com

Picture postcard perfection in Platja d'Aro

2018-04-11

One of just 19 Catalan Official Family Holiday Destinations, Platja d'Aro has grown from a small fishing village to a town that offers something for everyone. It is a fantastic place to rent one of our holiday villas if you are travelling to the Costa Brava with friends or family for a holiday. Platja d'Aro is the beach area just 3km from the nearest town of Castells d'Aro. A town steeped in history with Castillo de Benedormiens, a castle which dates back to 1041 being one of the main attractions. There are medieval towers to see here and El Parque dels Estanys, a 150,000 m2 wildlife park which has over 250 species of birds. Daily walking tours and lookout points are just some of the attractions at this very popular local gem. If you really want to partake in a local custom and you are in the area on the 23rd April, remember to buy a book and a rose to give to your significant other. The 23rd April is St Jordi's Day (Saint George's Day), the patron saint of Catalonia. On this day couples buy each other a rose and a book, often from the numerous stalls which local shopowners open up in a special fair just for the occasion. There is a lacemaking event on the same day, so if books aren't your thing, you can always buy some handmade lace and give that as a unique gift when you get back home. One of the biggest social gatherings of the year is the town's answer to Oktoberfest. A beer festival takes place every October, with both local and international beers served straight from the keg. Held in the town square, each year there is a different commemorative pitcher available to sample the beers in and take home with you. Platja d'Aro is just 80 km from Barcelona and 43km from Girona, giving you two options for airports to fly into when you arrive. You can take advantage of easy connections to major European airports at Barcelona, or low-cost airlines at Girona. If you are looking to rent a holiday home for a week, a month or even longer, check out our homes in Platja d'Aro and combine the best of two worlds - a fantastic beach and local cultural activities, just what you need for a relaxing holiday! Sources Picture: ID 90755648 © Juan Bautista Cofreces | Dreamstime.com Catalonia-valencia.com/castell-platja-daro-spain-travel-guide.html Platjadaro.com/events/1356/diada_de_sant_jordi.html Platjadaro.com/events/1231/inauguration_tapping_the_first_beer_keg.html

Property boom to continue in Mallorca throughout 2018

2018-03-21

Strong tourism numbers and significant infrastructure improvements have allowed the property market to prosper over the past 14 months, with growth continuing into 2018. Having undergone an impressive transformation over the past five years, the Balearics prime market is appealing to an increasingly wider audience of international buyers, with investors taking advantage of the recent tourism influx and continued growth. The island’s tourism boom has allowed for growth and development in all sectors, with legislative and infrastructure improvements supporting the already well rooted residential property market. According to recent figures from precioviviendas.com, property values increased by some 4.32% in Q3 which placed Mallorca as the only area in Spain where values increased in excess of 4%. It has also been the leading region in property price growth for the last three quarters, with Q1 and Q2 showing strong growth at 5.12% and 5.74% respectively. A key factor which has allowed for a strong property market over the years is that Mallorca has never had an issue with over supply, allowing values to remain resilient even in the most testing of times. Strong economic fundamentals, such as an increase in disposable income, higher employment, and a boost in consumer confidence, have made way for investment in infrastructure, technology and businesses, ultimately resulting in higher property values. An increase in direct investment in hotels and in schemes such as the €50 million investment in Palma Marina is also expected to do a great deal to draw wealthy yacht owners and guests to explore Mallorca and encourage local spending. The largest island in the Balearics attracts a diverse range of buyers and visitors, with a significant number of Germans, Swiss, Austrians, Brits - despite Brexit - and Scandinavians purchasing apartments and villas in Mallorca. All of this teamed with a low crime rate and the islands staggering beauty have led to it to be one of the top destinations in the world to live and own a property. Annual growth rates in 2018 are expected to sit at around 10%, with property values maintaining due to the continued demand from buyers of multi nationalities. By Laura Henderson, Managing Editor of Abode2. For more property news visit www.abode2.com

Easter isn't just about chocolate eggs

2018-03-02

Easter in Spain isn't just celebrated with chocolate eggs, there is a whole range of culinary delights to suit both sweet and savoury tastebuds. La Mona de Pascua A very typical Easter treat in Valencia, Murcia, Cataluña and La Mancha, with regional variations now found across Spain, the Mona de Pascua is a cake which has boiled eggs cooked within its rounded form. During Lent, eggs were traditionally one of the foods that Christians abstained from eating and so eggs hatched between Ash Wednesday and Easter were blessed and given as gifts, often within the cake, to grandchildren and godchildren. The number of eggs, to a maximum of twelve, represents the child's age. If you want to give baking your own a try, you can find a simple recipe for Mona de Pascua at the Spanish tourism website. Nowadays Monas de Pascua range from the traditional to chocolate coated ones and even come decorated with Spain's favourite football players! Look out for them in your local shops just before Easter. Torrijas Similar to French Toast, Torrijas are thick slices of bread that are soaked in a batter of egg and milk then fried with oil and served with honey sugar or even wine. Delicious with a glass of sweet wine from your local bar or a café con leche. Hornazo A savoury pie stuffed with chorizo, hard-boiled eggs and pork, this is found in the north in Ávila and Salamanca. Like the Mona de Pascua, the eggs laid during Lent didn't go to waste. Instead they were boiled and preserved for eating on Easter Monday, also known as Lunes de Aguas in these towns. Buñuelos Best eaten fresh from the fryer with a coating of icing sugar, a squeeze of lemon or stuffed with egg custard, these are a sweet treat to make your mouth water and have you coming back for more! Similar to a doughnut, they are made with eggs, flour, water and milk which once made into a batter are fried at a high temperature. You'll find them served at Easter at local gatherings but also in November on All Saints Day. A lot of the traditional foods eaten at Easter in Spain have their historic roots in Spain's rich past - often adaptations of Moorish foods to suit Christian beliefs. What we can't deny though, is that there is a reason they have been around for centuries. They really are truly scrumptious! Why not try them this Easter when staying at your holiday home? Or, if you are currently looking for a new home in Valencia or Murcia, contact us to find out where to head for the best local food as you start your search for your own home in the Spanish sunshine. Sources Spain.info/en/que-quieres/gastronomia/recetas/mona_de_pascua.html Spain.info/en/que-quieres/gastronomia/recetas/bunuelos_de_viento.html Thelocal.es/galleries/culture/ten-delicious-food-for-easter-in-spain Lameva.barcelona.cat/culturapopular/es/noticia/veinte-cosas-que-no-sabzas-sobre-la-mona-de-pascua