The Andalusian way of life: a homeowner’s story
From buying a home on the Costa Tropical of Granada to writing a book about Andalusia’s hidden Blue Zone. Discover how one of Cumbre Villas’ buyers fell in love with a lifestyle that inspires longevity and joy.
There are places that capture your heart from the moment you arrive. For many international buyers, the Costa Tropical of Granada is one of them. With its beautiful Mediterranean coastline, picturesque whitewashed villages, mild climate and relaxed way of life, this lesser-known corner of Andalusia offers much more than an attractive place to own a property. It offers a different way of living.
At Cumbre Villas, we have witnessed this countless times over the years. Clients arrive looking for a holiday home or a permanent residence in southern Spain, only to discover a region that exceeds their expectations. What begins as a property search often turns into a lasting connection with the local culture, landscape and lifestyle.
One of these stories belongs to Sebastián V., who purchased a home in Cotobro, Almuñécar, through Cumbre Villas and became so inspired by the Andalusian way of life that he wrote The Hidden Blue Gem: Andalusia, a book celebrating the region’s culture, traditions and approach to wellbeing.
Falling in love with the Costa Tropical
When Sebastián discovered the Costa Tropical, he found more than beautiful beaches and spectacular sea views. He was drawn to the slower rhythm of daily life, the warmth of the local community and the natural balance between the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.
“For six months, we immersed ourselves in life along the Costa del Sol, staying in different towns and villages, from Estepona to Nerja, not simply to visit, but to discover what it would truly feel like to call this part of Spain home. But it was Almuñécar that captured our hearts. Within easy reach of Málaga Airport, yet a world away from the bustle, it offers something increasingly rare: an authentic Spanish way of life, still beautifully preserved in its narrow streets, charming squares and unhurried rhythm.
The coastline reminds us of the Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, winding roads and breathtaking Mediterranean views. Yet here in Almuñécar, life feels quieter, more intimate, with hidden coves and secluded beaches waiting to be discovered.”
Like many international homeowners, Sebastián discovered that life here often revolves around simple pleasures: a morning coffee in the village square, fresh produce from the local market, long lunches with friends and evenings spent outdoors enjoying the Mediterranean climate.
For Sebastián, purchasing a home in Almuñécar was not simply a real estate investment. It marked the beginning of a new chapter and a deeper connection with the place he had chosen to call home.
Andalusia: Europe’s hidden Blue Zone?
In The Hidden Blue Gem: Andalusia, Sebastián explores the culture, traditions and lifestyle that make southern Spain such an appealing place to live. The book draws inspiration from the concept of Blue Zones, regions associated with longevity and wellbeing, where factors such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, strong social connections and a sense of purpose play an important role in everyday life.
Although Andalusia is not officially recognised as one of the world’s established Blue Zones, Sebastián explores how many aspects of its traditional lifestyle reflect these same principles.
On the Costa Tropical, outdoor living is part of daily life. The region’s subtropical microclimate, sheltered by the surrounding mountains, allows residents to enjoy the outdoors throughout much of the year. From swimming and walking along the coast to cycling through the hills, hiking in La Alpujarra or skiing in the nearby Sierra Nevada, there are endless opportunities to stay active and enjoy nature.
Social connections are equally important. Family gatherings, local festivities, neighbourhood cafés and long meals shared around the table remain an essential part of Andalusian culture. It is this combination of climate, nature, food and community that Sebastián celebrates in his book.
The Mediterranean lifestyle and its liquid gold
The traditional Mediterranean diet is another important aspect of Andalusian life. Fresh vegetables, seasonal fruit, fish, legumes and extra virgin olive oil form the foundation of this diet, which is widely recognised for its health benefits.
Olive oil, often referred to as oro líquido or “liquid gold”, holds a particularly important place in the region’s culinary heritage. The olive groves that shape the Andalusian landscape represent generations of agricultural tradition and a close connection with the land.
Sebastián’s appreciation for these traditions also inspired Tree of Andalucia, a project centred on authentic, organic olive oil produced in the Sierra Nevada area near Órgiva. Passionate about the traditional art of olive oil making, he follows the process from harvest to bottle, with a focus on pure, additive-free extra virgin olive oil, produced responsibly and sold at a fair price.
For those interested in discovering more about the region’s olive oil heritage, the Museo del Aceite in Vélez de Benaudalla, near Motril, offers an opportunity to explore this important part of local culture.
A special edition created for Cumbre Villas
Sebastián’s story captures what we hope every client will experience when purchasing a home on the Costa Tropical: not only finding the right property, but also discovering a place where they truly feel at home.
Following his own experience buying a property with Cumbre Villas, Sebastián created a special edition of his book for our agency, featuring an exclusive foreword and afterword dedicated to his experience of buying a home in Spain. In the foreword, Sebastián reflects on what led him to settle in Andalusia:
“My own decision to settle here grew from a quiet inner certainty — a sense of recognition that unfolded gradually, then all at once.”
He also highlights the importance of trusted local guidance when purchasing property abroad. From finding the right home to navigating the legal and practical aspects of the purchase, having an experienced local team can make all the difference.
As a family-run real estate agency with in-house legal and tax specialists, we have been helping international buyers find their place on the Costa Tropical since 2001. Our relationship with clients often continues well beyond the purchase, as they settle into their new homes and become part of the local community.
Sebastián’s story is a wonderful example of that connection, and we are delighted to share his book with others who are considering making Granada part of their own lives.
The special Cumbre Villas edition of The Hidden Blue Gem: Andalusia is available exclusively at our offices in Salobreña and La Herradura. The regular edition can also be purchased on Amazon.
More than a property, a place to call home
Every buyer has a different reason for choosing the Costa Tropical of Granada. Some come for the sunshine and spectacular sea views, others for the tranquillity, outdoor lifestyle or proximity to Granada and Málaga. Many discover that what truly makes them stay is something less tangible: the welcoming atmosphere, the sense of belonging and the quality of everyday life.
Sebastián’s journey from property buyer to author beautifully illustrates how discovering a new region can become a life-changing experience. At Cumbre Villas, we believe that finding your dream home is about much more than choosing a property. It is about finding the right place to build the lifestyle you want.
Are you considering buying a home on the Costa Tropical?
Visit our offices in Salobreña or La Herradura to explore our selection of amazing villas with stunning views and discover what life in southern Spain could offer you.