Foreign buyers' bank loans surge 35% in Spain as non-resident mortgages hit 1.3 million
More than 1.3 million non-resident individuals and companies in Spain now hold a bank loan, following a 35% increase in the last year, according to data compiled by The Objective. While this figure still represents a relatively small percentage of total bank customers — around 5% of the sector's open operations — growth is accelerating. The Bank of Spain reports that lending for property purchases by foreign buyers is concentrated primarily on the Mediterranean coast, accounting for 74.3% of operations, with the provinces of Alicante (23.9%) and Málaga (20.6%) together accounting for almost half of all transactions. Non-resident buyers pay significantly more for property, with an average of €2,452/m² compared to €1,481/m² for Spanish buyers. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Gijón's San Lorenzo beach leads Asturias luxury property market with €2,700/m² as international interest surges
The northern Spanish coast is positioning itself in the international luxury market, with Asturias standing out for its wide range of properties, quality of life, and historical heritage that has inspired a variety of artists. Gijón, where the sea "in waves pours its infinite poetry" according to writer Rosario de Acuña, recorded the highest average used housing price in Asturias in 2025 at €2,700/m² — a 5.9% increase — with new builds approaching €5,700/m² and certain developments reaching €6,500/m². According to Engel & Völkers and Veri Corral, the region is awakening great interest in the international luxury market, driven by climate, coast, nature, privacy and the absence of massification, with a growing profile of discreet buyers from Central Europe, America and Spain. The market's maturity is reflected in properties ranging from 2.3 million to 4.9 million euros. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Llanes and Ribadesella rank Spain's top 3 most searched villages, leading Asturian property interest
Northern Spain is asserting itself as a priority destination for international buyers. A recent study analysing Spanish localities with the highest volume of internet searches confirms the undeniable appeal of the Cantabrian coast, placing Asturias at the epicentre of property interest. According to published data, Llanes ranks second nationally, recognised for its well-preserved medieval historic centre and exceptional coastline, while Ribadesella ranks third, distinguished by its elegant historic centre, the imposing Santa Marina beach and the world-renowned River Sella descent. The Cantabrian coast's strong presence is completed by Santillana del Mar (6th) and Ribadeo (7th). .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Asturias leads northern Spain property boom with 5.8% of international transactions, CaixaBank Research reports
The real estate market on the Cantabrian coast is experiencing an unprecedented boom, consolidating Asturias as the preferred destination for foreign investment in northern Spain. According to the recent CaixaBank Research report, based on data from the College of Registrars, international interest in "Green Spain" is structurally transforming the sector. Property purchases by foreigners in the northwestern peninsular communities have risen from 1.8% at the end of 2020 to 3.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024. Within this expansion, Asturias leads with 5.8% of international transactions, ahead of the Basque Country (3.7%), Cantabria (3.6%) and Galicia (2.2%). .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Asturias becomes international investment refuge as foreign demand grows 15% with buyers paying over €3,200/m²
The housing market in Asturias is undergoing an unprecedented transformation. Far from the saturation of traditional destinations, the Principality is consolidating itself as the benchmark for international buyers seeking tranquillity, security and an unrivalled lifestyle. Foreign demand in the region has grown by 15% in just one year, reaching nearly 8% of all purchases in the second quarter of 2025. Buyers from northern Europe, Switzerland, Sweden and the United States lead the premium market, investing more than €3,200/m² for unique properties, paying 60% of operations in cash. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Asturias seduces British buyers: The rise of 'Coolcationing' in Spain's green north, say The Guardian and The Times
International buyers are turning their attention to northern Spain, with Asturias emerging as the preferred destination for those fleeing extreme temperatures in search of quality of life, authenticity and green landscapes. The phenomenon, dubbed "Coolcationing" by the media, has been highlighted by The Guardian, The Times and The Telegraph in extensive features. The region's Picos de Europa, virgin beaches, culinary scene from traditional cider houses to Michelin-starred restaurants, and improved air connectivity are driving this shift away from the traditional sun-and-sand tourism of the south. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Rural property transfers surge 15% in Asturias as international buyers target the region's countryside
The transfer of rural properties in Asturias has surged by 15%, according to recent data published by RTPA on 9 August 2026. This significant increase reflects the growing interest from international buyers in the region's countryside, from the valleys of Allande and Cangas del Narcea to the coastal parishes of Llanes and Cudillero. The data, which covers the entire Principality, confirms a structural shift in the property market: buyers are increasingly looking beyond urban centres towards rural estates, traditional farmhouses and land with development potential. The rise is particularly notable in concejos such as Tineo, Salas, Pravia, Proaza and Quirós, where the combination of affordable prices, natural beauty and proximity to the coast or the Picos de Europa creates a compelling investment proposition. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Detached houses in Gijón already account for 15% of new homes, with prices above 2,500 €/m²
Detached houses now represent 15% of new homes in Gijón, with prices not falling below 2,500 euros per square metre. A 160-square-metre house costs around 400,000 euros, while a standard 120-square-metre house with a porch and garage can reach 525,000 euros including all fees. According to architect José Pis, construction costs range between 2,200 and 2,400 €/m², but final prices can reach 3,000 €/m². The trend has been rising since the pandemic, especially in areas such as Somió, Castiello, Cabueñes and Deva. This market requires significant purchasing power and reflects the growing demand for space and quality of life. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
The renaissance of the Palace of Mon in San Martín de Oscos after a 1.4 million euro rehabilitation
The Palace of Mon, a Cultural Interest Asset (BIC) in San Martín de Oscos, has regained its former splendour thanks to a rehabilitation project promoted by the Principality and financed with 1.4 million euros from Next Generation funds. The building has been transformed into a gastronomic and cultural centre, combining heritage, gastronomy, culture and knowledge to generate new opportunities for the region. The work has consolidated the structure, restored facades, recovered original elements, and incorporated a modern kitchen and restrooms. The project also includes a museumisation plan with funds from the Oscos-Eo tourism sustainability plan. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}
Fernando Alonso's refuge in Oviedo: a city with a golf course, UNESCO heritage, and world-class cider
Fernando Alonso, the famous Formula 1 driver, has found his personal refuge on the outskirts of Oviedo, a property surrounded by greenery with a private golf course. But the real attraction of the area is the city itself, the capital of Asturias, which combines a historic centre with UNESCO World Heritage monuments such as the Cámara Santa and the pre-Romanesque churches on Mount Naranco. Oviedo is also a gastronomic benchmark, with dishes such as fabada, cachopo and natural cider, which has led the city to be considered the world capital of this drink. The city, surrounded by nature, is a testament to the quality of life that attracts both the famous and many international residents. .inastour-article *{box-sizing:border-box;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;line-height:1.6}