Spain shines as Europe’s ideal second home destination
Spain shines as Europe’s ideal sustainable travel and second home destination
- Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2024 highlighted Spain’s sustainability credentials
- Taylor Wimpey España selling a range of A-rated new properties
- Flight free travel and working from home supporting new sustainability patterns
Lonely Planet has just ranked Spain as among the top ten destinations in the world for sustainable travel, as part of its Best in Travel 2024. The country’s commitment to biodiversity and the fact that “new cycle paths, electric buses and train routes offer flight-free ways to see the country” contributed to Spain’s status as a leading destination for eco-conscious travellers.
Sustainability is an increasingly important issue for second home buyers in Spain, as well as holidaymakers. According to Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director at leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España, energy efficiency is increasingly top of mind for buyers. When asked to predict trends for the Spanish second homes market in 2024, he commented:
“Buyers are increasingly seeking modern homes built with sustainability in mind. They are asking about energy certifications and seeking out A- and B-rated properties with features such as aerothermal heating pumps, installation for electric cars, energy-efficient appliances and energy-saving measures in communal areas. This is going to be a key trend in 2024 and beyond, with buyers increasingly turning away from older properties in favour of new, more sustainable homes.”
Taylor Wimpey España already provides virtual show home visits for buyers looking to reduce their carbon footprint by minimising travel. The company has seen travel patterns change too, with many owners using their properties for fewer, longer breaks, often blending leisure time with working from home.
“We expect to see further growth in executive nomads using their second homes in Spain in 2024. Those who have established effective, long-term working from home arrangements now have the freedom to change their travel patterns and enjoy greater lifestyle benefits as a result. Instead of travelling to the office daily, sitting in traffic and adding to the fumes, they can step onto the terrace and enjoy an early morning coffee in the near-year-round sunshine, drinking in the stunning view as motivation for the day’s work.”