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Lucas Fox Guide to Tossa, Lloret and Blanes

Lucas Fox Costa Brava has recently expanded its portfolio to incorporate a number of luxury properties in and around Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar and Blanes. Situated in the most southerly sector of the Costa Brava in the county of Selva, the area is recognizable for its beautiful coves and beaches, cliffs and pine forests. In the 1950s it was this area of the Costa Brava which was singled out by the Spanish government and local entrepreneurs as being suitable for development as a holiday destination, mainly targeted at tourists from Northern Europe. The combination of a very good summer climate, nature, excellent beaches made this area a hugely popular tourist destination, and that is still the case today.

Tossa de Mar

Located half way between the city of Barcelona and the French border, Tossa de Mar is situated to the north of La Selva and is an ancient agricultural and fishermen’s village with an important historical background. The “Vila Vella enceinte” (Old Town) is the only example of a fortified medieval town still standing on the Catalan coast. The interior of the Old Town is a charming place with narrow, cobblestoned streets and Tossa’s wide beach is enclosed to the west by the medieval castle.

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Guía de Lucas Fox de Tossa, Lloret y Blanes

Lucas Fox Costa Brava ha ampliado recientemente su cartera inmobiliaria con la incorporación de una serie de propiedades de lujo situadas en los alrededores de Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar y Blanes. La zona que conforman estos tres municipios está ubicada en el sector más meridional de la Costa Brava, en la comarca de la Selva, y es famosa por sus hermosas calas y playas y sus magníficos acantilados y pinares. En la década de 1950, el Gobierno español y los empresarios locales declararon esta zona de la Costa Brava apta para el desarrollo urbanístico y para el turismo, principalmente dirigida a los turistas del norte de Europa. La combinación de un clima de verano muy agradable, la naturaleza y las excelentes playas han hecho de esta zona un destino turístico muy popular, un estatus del cual sigue gozando hoy en día.

Tossa de Mar

A medio camino entre la ciudad de Barcelona y la frontera francesa, Tossa de Mar está situada al norte de la comarca de La Selva y es un antiguo pueblo agrícola y de pescadores con un pasado histórico importante. La “Vila Vella” (casco antiguo) es la única ciudad fortificada medieval que se ha conservado en todo el litoral catalán. El interior del casco antiguo es un lugar encantador, con calles estrechas y empedradas, incluyendo la playa de Tossa, donde a su izquierda se alza el imponente castillo medieval.

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Villa en primera línea de la playa de Benirrás, norte de Ibiza LFB468

Esta impresionante propiedad en primera línea consiste en una villa de 5 dormitorios y una casa de invitados de 2 dormitorios. Las dos tienen vistas al mar y están situadas a pocos minutos de la playa.

Esta magnífica villa en venta en San Juan se encuentra en una parcela de 3000 m2 con puertas de entrada automáticas, amplia entrada de coches y jardines.

La propiedad consta de una casa principal y una casa de invitados.

Hay amplias terrazas cubiertas delante de la piscina.

La piscina está rodeada de terrazas y jardines bien cuidados con zona de barbacoa, todo con sombra gracias a los árboles.

La propiedad disfruta de unas vistas maravillosas a la playa de Benirrás y los alrededores. El entorno es tranquilo y ofrece total privacidad.

Photoset:
Exterior view - ibiza properties

garden view - villa for sale in north ibiza - Benirras

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Alcudia beach in Mallorca voted one of the best in Europe

The beach at Port d’Alcudia in Mallorca has been voted the second most beautiful beach in Europe by travellers of TripAdvisor. It was just pipped to the post as European hotspot by Oludeniz beach in Turkey. Located in the north of the island, La Playa d’Alcúdia stretches more than 14km all the way to Can Picafort, making it the longest beach in Mallorca.

In the 1920s the first tourists began to visit Alcúdia and by the early 70′s it became clear that the future of Alcúdia would be in tourism. 15 years later the old harbour of Puerto de Alcúdia had developed into a major resort for European tourism. In the 90′s the construction boom calmed down and several regulations were put in place. Now the focus is on visitors searching for both relaxation and activity. A golf course has been constructed and there are numerous biking and hiking opportunities. The Old Town has been preserved and pedestrianized and it has now become one of the most visited villages in Mallorca.

The beach itself is curved with fine, white sand with numerous palm trees. The water is fairly shallow making it ideal for families with small children and it is also wonderful for snorkeling, diving and waterskiing. The main promenade (Paseo Maritimo) is  packed with traditional ‘Balneario’ bars that sell everything from drinks & ice-creams to hearty meals such as pizzas, pastas and paellas, and some of the island’s most luxurious yachts can be seen in the Port. Unlike some ports this marina is not sandwiched between beaches so usually boats will not come close to swimmers, which leaves the waters very clear and safe for swimming. There is also an annual Ironman competition which takes place in Alcudia  with participants coming from all over the world to complete.
The nightlife is more family orientated then in some of the other Balearic resorts. The bars and clubs are lively but rarely rowdy.

All in all, Alcúdia is a beautiful sought-after resort and well worth a visit for those considering investing in property.

Lucas Fox has a range of beautiful properties in North Mallorca. Here are some of our most viewed…

Stunning country property for sale set in a 15 hectare plot with views of the bay of Alcudia.

Large 18th century finca for sale Vall d’en March in north Mallorca. Newly refurbished with modern interior.

Charming rustic coastal property for sale with main house and guest house in Colonia de San Pere, North Mallorca. Large plot and swimming pool. Close to some of Mallorca’s top golf courses and sailing facilities.

40 hectare country estate for sale in North Mallorca. Over 1100m2 constructed area including a traditional farmhouse to renovate. Possibility of building a second house of 500m2.

For information on any of the above properties or other property for sale in Mallorca please contact the Lucas Fox Mallorca office on (+34) 971 719 907 or by email rafa@lucasfox.com/nicole@lucasfox.com

The Lucas Fox guide to… Luxury dining in the Costa Brava

Catalunya has a well deserved reputation for being home to some outstanding restaurants. In fact, the region has the highest concentration of Michelin starred restaurants in the whole of Spain. Fourteen restaurants have amassed twenty Michelin stars between them, while the chef Joan Roca, of El Celler de Can Roca, has been singled out for his exceptional cullinary talent. Many of Spain’s finest modern chefs (including of course Ferran Adria) have been trained in Catalan schools and restaurants, and numerous exciting and unique dishes have been created in a Costa Brava restaurant. The region’s gastronomy, inextricably linked to the local cuisine and geography, is a powerful engine of the local economy and tourism industry. Indeed, gastronomy now represents one of the reasons tourists choose to holiday in the Costa Brava.

For any ‘foodie’, or for those holidaying in the area, there is a wealth of gastronomic delights to discover. Some typical local speciality dishes include:

Pa amb tomàquet – Bread brushed with tomato and olive oil –this is pretty much a staple at any meal.

Allioli – this garlic-and-olive-oil mayonnaise style accompaniment is found in restaurants around the world, but you must taste the real thing handmade in Catalunya.

Crema Catalana – similar to the French crème brulee and sometimes with a twist such as cinnamon or orange.

Suquet – a fish stew dish. Delicious.

Escalivada – onion, red pepper and aubergine grilled and often served with bread or paired with a meat or seafood dish.

There are countless excellent restaurants in the region.. here are some of our favourites:

El Cellar de Can Roca Can
Sunyer 48,17007, Girona
Tel: 0034 972 222 157
restaurant@cellarcanroca.com
www.cellercanroca.com

This 3 starred Michelin restaurant is a must. Run by 3 brothers who combine to create truly spectacular food. They call themselves a free-style restaurant, committed to the avant-garde, but still faithful to the memory of different generations of the family’s ancestors dedicated to feeding people.

Bo Tic
Ctra. C-66 Girona, Palamós, Km 11,5 – 17121 CORÇÀ (Girona)
Tel: 0034 972 63 08 69
restaurant@bo-tic.com
www.bo-tic.com

Since  2007 the owners of this one Michelin Starred restaurant, Albert Sastregener i Surroca and Cristina Torrent i Cos, have displayed an enviable professional know-how despite their youth, and have been shaping the idea of this interesting new gastronomic project. It is a creative, innovative and involving design cuisine project, inspired by the essence of traditional Empordanese cuisine.

Ca L’Arpa
Passeig Indústria 5, 17820, Banyoles
Tel: 0034 972 57 23 53
calarpa@calarpa.com
www.lescols.com

A modern and beautifully styled restaurant with two Michelin Stars serving up simply amazing food.

Miramar
Passeig Marítim, 7, 17490, Llançà, Girona
Tel: 0034 972 380 132
www.restaurantmiramar.com

Miramar was first opened in 1939 by the Serra Family. During many years it was a tavern. Nowadays, the fourth generation are running the show and since 1997 have been in charge of re-creating a Miramar as Gourmet Restaurant. After 75 years of history, the Miramar restaurant, now has 2 Michelin Stars, given in 2006 and 2010 to Chef Paco Perez.

Els Tinars
Ctra. de St. Feliu a Girona, km 7,2, 1724, Llagostera, GIRONA
Tel. 972 830 626
tinars@tinars.com
www.elstinars.com

Their cuisine is and always has been based on traditional Catalan cooking and the finest seasonal local produce. They take advantage of new techniques to bring traditional dishes constantly up to date.

Director of Lucas Fox Costa Brava Tom Maidment believes lovers of good Spanish cuisine will be spoilt for choice when visiting the region
““The Costa Brava, in particular the region of Empordà is blessed with fine dining, but a great meal doesn`t always have to bore a whole in your pocket.  Before tourism reached Costa Brava, incomes relied on the fishing trade, olive farming and wine, and these staples remain part of the area’s gastronomy. You can find yourself having memorable introductions to Catalan gastronomy in restaurants such as Tragamar in Canadell, Platillos Can Climent in Begur or Hostal Sa Tuna in Sa Tuna.“

Lucas Fox has numerous luxury properties close to some of Europe’s best restaurants including

Luxury, newly constructed, Costa Brava properties to buy in Aigua Blava, one of the most exclusive areas of the Costa Brava – 24-hour security, gated community, sea views, 1km from the beach

Semi-detached, golf property to buy on the prestigious PGA de Catalunya golf resort – near Girona city and the beaches of the Costa Brava

Lovely 5-bedroom Costa Brava villa to buy just a 5-minute walk from the stunning bay of Tamariu

Superb luxury Begur villa for sale in an exclusive residential estate overlooking Aiguablava with private pool and lovely sea views. Walking distance to the beach

For more information on the above properties or any other property for sale or rent on the Costa Brava, please contact Tom Maidment Tom@LucasFox.com or +34 648092334

 

Lo más destacado de…Santa Eulalia, Ibiza

Santa Eulalia (Santa Eulària des Riu, en Catalán) es un municipio situado en la costa este de Ibiza y es la tercera ciudad más grande de la isla. El ambiente cosmopolita y relajado hace de Santa Eulalia un lugar ideal para vivir todo el año, al igual que otros municipios de la zona, como Jesús, San Carlos y Santa Gertrudis. El casco antiguo de Santa Eulalia se alza sobre una colina (Puig de Missa) donde se halla una iglesia del siglo XVI construida para defenderse de los piratas. La ciudad cuenta con varias galerías de arte de renombre, un puerto deportivo nuevo, tiendas exclusivas, dos playas hermosas y algunos de los mejores restaurantes de la isla, todo ello potenciando su reputación como centro gastronómico y cultural de Ibiza. El ambiente de la vida nocturna es más relajado que en Ibiza ciudad o San Antonio, pero el nuevo puerto deportivo, lleno de bares musicales, también es muy popular para cenar y disfrutar de la noche. La ciudad también cuenta con un mercado hippie, testigo de la época hippie de los años 70. Hoy en día, también es un destino frecuentado por muchos famosos, una zona donde no se acercan los paparazzi. Situada a poco más de 20 km del aeropuerto, Santa Eulalia viene demostrando hace tiempo que es un destino popular para las familias, muchas de las cuales poseen segundas residencias en esta región. El paseo marítimo, alienado con palmeras, es ideal para los niños, y los resorts turísticos próximos de Es Canà, en el norte, y Cala Llonga, en el sur, también son destinos populares para las familias.

“Tienes (casi) todo lo que necesitas en un solo lugar, todo ello a poca distancia a pie, por lo que se puede aparcar y hacer todos tus encargos sin tener que aparcar”, explica el fotógrafo local Gyspy Westwood “Hay excelentes carnicerías, pescaderías, mercados, supermercados, cafeterías, todo tipo de tiendas… Ahora tenemos un cine, donde todos los martes y miércoles ponen películas en versión original y el resto de la semana, dobladas al español. También hacen obras de teatro y otros eventos como el ¡Teatro España! Hay excelentes instalaciones para los niños, todo tipo de actividades deportivas, muchas escuelas… es un fantástico lugar durante todo el año porque es pequeño, ¡pero en invierno no parece un pueblo fantasma con todas las tiendas cerradas! Siempre hay movimiento, incluso en invierno, lo que la convierte en una gran comunidad.”

 

A continuación os mostramos algunos de nuestras mejores propiedades ubicadas en el municipio de Santa Eulalia

Casa  de campo  de estilo ibicenco en San Carlos de Peralta, situado en una amplia parcela de terreno con excelentes vistas al mar

Villa encantadora estilo “Bauhaus” en Ibiza, cerca de Santa Eulalia con preciosas vistas a la montaña y al mar. Casa espaciosa con apartamento independiente.

Chalet ultra moderno en Cala Llonga, Santa Eulalia. Estilo moderno mezclado con un toque clásico ibicenco. Acabados de alto standing.

Parcela situada cerca de la carretera entre Ibiza y Santa Eulalia. El proyecto ha sido aprobado para la construcción de una casa de lujo de 4 dormitorios. A solo 10 minutos en coche de Ibiza.

Para más información sobre estas propiedades o cualquier otra propiedad en venta o en alquiler en Ibiza, por favor, póngase en contacto con Alix Bond en la Oficina de Lucas Fox Ibiza alix.bond@lucasfox.com

 

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Golf’s best kept secret – The Costa Brava


The Costa Brava is blessed with some truly magnificent golf courses, the majority of which were previously unrecognized in official rankings. In recent years however, many of its courses have been regarded as being top European contenders, most notably the PGA de Catalunya and Empordà courses. It is not surprising then that the region is becoming an increasingly popular spot for golfers of all levels who can combine their passion for the sport whilst holidaying in one of Europe’s most beautiful regions

“Recognition of the Costa Brava as a leading golf destination is long overdue. The area boasts some truly outstanding golf courses such as PGA Catalunya and Golf Empordà and has rightly been given the accolade as one of the world’s top emerging golf destinations” says Tom Maidment Director of Lucas Fox Costa Brava “Not only can lovers of golf enjoy the sport within a spectacular setting and superb year round climate, they can also enjoy some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches, some fantastic historical sites and numerous Michelin starred restaurants in the region”

Here is Lucas Fox’s guide to the Costa Brava’s top golf courses as well as some fabulous Costa Brava properties for lovers of the sport….

1.      Around Platja d’Aro/S’Agaro…

PGA de Catalunya
With the Pyrenees as a backdrop, PGA de Catalunya (Stadium & Tour course, both 18 holes, Par 72,)  is home to two truly stunning golf courses. The Stadium course was designed by Spanish golf legend Angel Gallardo and Ryder Cup star Neil Coles and opened at the end of 1998. It has already hosted a number of top golf events including the Spanish Open in 2000 and 2009 and the PGA European Tour Qualifying School Finals. The Stadium course has received a steady stream of accolades since its inauguration and was recently voted the Number One Course in Spain in an influential new ranking of Spanish golf courses.

If you are interested in viewing property for sale on the PGA de Catalunya resort we suggest you take a look at the following:

Fabulous contemporary, 3-bedroom semi-detached house with pool

Exquisitely designed 4-bedroom property with high quality finishes, pool and garden

First line plots within this exclusive luxury residential development. Superb views of the Stadium and Tour courses, the Pyrenees and the dramatic surrounding landscape

2. Around Begur…

Empordà
Considered one of the best courses in Catalonia, Empordà Golf (Links course: 18 holes, Par 71, Forest Course, 18 holes, Par 73) also plays host to one of the PGA European Tour Qualifying Schools. With top practice facilities, Empordà boasts four, nine hole courses, which have been combined to form two distinct 18 hole courses. The first 18 holes are a links-style course with lakes, dunes and extensive bunkers. The second 18 are immersed in Mediterranean pines, typical of the area.

Platja de Pals
Founded in 1966, the Platja de Pals Golf Club Golf Club (18 hole, Par 73), runs parallel with the beautiful Pals beach and is surrounded by dense green pine forests. In 1972, it hosted the Spanish Open. Since then the course has been considered as one of the finest in Spain thanks to its design and construction, and it has been the venue of numerous international competitions.

Serres de Pals
Founded in 2000, the Serres de Pals Golf Club (18 holes) was designed by Ramón Espinosa. It is set in rambling agricultural land and boasts beautiful views. The course offers a challenge to golfers of all levels as it is composed of three distinct areas with smooth hilltops, pine tree forests and fairways between lakes.

If you are interested in viewing property close to the Serres de Pals, Platja de Pals and Empordà courses, we suggest you take a look at the following:

Two apartments with stunning views over the Empordà golf course and the mountains of the Gavarres – only 8km for the beaches of the Costa Brava

Magnificent, fully restored country house for sale near the medieval village of Pals on the Costa Brava

3. Around Figueres…

Peralada
The Peralada Golf course (18 + 9 hole, par 71) is one of the most beautiful golf courses of the region; attracting players of all levels. It is an attractive and relaxing course for players of all levels. This course forms part of the Peralada Golf Resort and also boasts a Golf School. Within the casino/castle there is a renowned wine spa.

Torremirona
Torremirona Golf Resort (18 hole, par 72) is situated a few kilometers from Figueres in a spectacular natural setting with the Pyrenees as a backdrop. Immaculately maintained throughout the year, it offers the golfer spectacular views and a challenging course. The club also boasts a prestigious Golf Academy with three practice holes.

If you are interested in viewing properties close to Torremirona and Perelada courses, we suggest you take a look at the following:

Immaculate four-bedroom golf villa in the desirable Peralada Golf Resort. Garden and pool.

Three bedroom duplex golf apartment on the Torremirona Golf Resort with communal swimming pool, gardens and wonderful views of the Pyrenees

Stunning 18th Century Girona country house with beautiful garden and views. Close to Lake Banyoles and easy access to Girona city

4. Around Playa de Aro / S’Agaro / Sant Feliu de Guixols…

Golf d’Aro
Built high on a hilltop above the coastal town of Platja d’Aro, Club de Golf d’Aro or Mas Nou Golf Club (18 hole, par 72) is located in a spectacular setting with panoramic views of the surrounding coast and landscape. Designed by architect Ramón Espinosa, it is a challenging course with water hazards and stategically placed bunkers. The club has hosted several European Ladies Tour events. There is also a 9 hole pitch and putt course.

Costa Brava
The Costa Brava Golf Club (18 holes, par 70) is located a short distance from the fabulous beaches of Platja d’Aro and St. Feliu de Guixols. The first nine holes, surrounded by pine and cork oak forests, differ from the other nine which are located on flat, wide fairways. The clubhouse is a spectacular 19th Century ‘Masia’ (country house).

If you are interested in viewing properties close to Golf d’Aro and Costa Brava courses, we suggest you take a look at the following:

Superb Catalan-style 5-bedroom house on the Golf Costa Brava development with guest apartment, sauna, lift and panoramic views over the valley and the golf course

Beautifully presented 5-bedroom seafront house on the attractive Golf Costa Brava resort, just a few minutes from the beach

5. Around Girona…

Girona Golf Club
Founded in in 1992 and designed by FG Hawtree, the Girona Golf Club (18 hole, par 72) is immaculately maintained and is the only course in Spain sown with ‘Pencross Grass’ and relies on the natural lie of the land to give it its elegant features, providing a challenge for golfers of all levels.The Girona Golf course has a beautiful clubhouse built of natural stone, blending in perfectly with its surroundings.

If you are interested in viewing properties close to the Girona Golf Club,, we suggest you take a look at the following:

An exquisite, luxury six-bedroom country property to buy just 10-minutes from Girona city

For any enquiries about the above properties or any other property in the Costa Brava please contact Tom Maidment on +34 648092334 or email Tom@lucasfox.com , or please Click Here

 

Lucas Fox’s guide to…Palma (Mallorca)


Palma (formerly known as Palma de Mallorca) is the island’s only true city and is the capital of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands. It has a population of approximately 400 thousand and is the 12th largest urban area of Spain. Almost half the population of Mallorca live in Palma. Its airport, Son Sant Joan, serves over 22 million passengers each year and it is where the Spanish Royal Family tend to spend their summer holidays.

Palma is a city of modern hotel chains and upmarket shops, yet still retains much of its original architecture in the Old Town – a maze of streets and picturesque squares hinting towards an Arab past. With the exception of a few streets and squares which allow traffic, the streets in the Old Town are narrow and quiet and boast a diverse range of buildings. The majority of buildings are private houses, some of which are open to the public as discreet museums or galleries. La Seu, its restored cathedral is the city’s most prominent attraction. Although construction began in 1229, it was not finished until 1601 and architect Antoni Gaudí was drafted in during a restoration project in 1901. The Parc de la Mar lies just south of the cathedral. The Old Town is also home to the Town Hall and Arab Baths, one of the few remnants of Palma’s Moorish past. The city’s beach Playa de Palma, is ten minutes from the city centre.

Football is the most important sport on the island, with the majority of fans supporting Real Mallorca. The city also holds a number of watersports and cycling tournaments.

In recent years Palma has increasingly attracted a cosmopolitan crowd, many of whom are choosing to buy in the city instead of other areas of the island. Some have even labeled Palma the ‘new Barcelona’, albeit a smaller version.  Indeed the city is undergoing a similar transformation -  new stylish hotels, fashionable shops, restaurants and bars are appearing and the opening of the Es Baluard Art Museum has helped assert the city as a cultural capital.

For buyers interested in purchasing property in Palma Old Town, the area offers many good investment opportunities, as prices have fallen since the boom years. Crime is low and it is safe and clean.
“ You can find some truly spectacular Renaissance houses of historical interest with inner courtyards and patios which have been stylishly converted into luxury apartments or single residences, many of which have sea views” says Rafael Calparsoro of the Lucas Fox Mallorca Office “The Old Town is quiet, cut off from traffic and you are within walking distance to the beaches, yacht club and harbour as well as some great restaurants and bars”

Here are some of our favourite Palma properties in the Old Town:

Beautiful 16th century palace with patios and large reception rooms. 3000m2 of built surface and 200m2 garden

Historic building with licence to develop ten luxury apartments with parking and terraces. Great central Old Town location

4-bedroom, 4-bathroom manor house in the heart of the Cathedral district. High quality renovation. Large roof terrace with stunning views of the Old Town and the sea.

Magnificent penthouse apartment with spectacular views, lovingly restored just a few years ago. Combining original features with stunning modern touches

 For buyers interested in any of the above properties or who wish to view more properties in Palma please contact Rafael Calparsoro on +34 971 71 99 07  or by email Rafael.c@lucasfox.com , or please Click Here