The best beaches.
Barbados? Mauritius? Where are the best beaches in the world?
It may come as a surprise to some (but not to us, of course!) that it is Spain that tops the worldwide list of Blue Flag beaches, yet again. It is not widely known, but Spain has in fact topped the ‘best beaches’ list every year since the Blue Flag scheme was initiated – in 1987!
The blue flag scheme was conceived by the Association for Environmental Education and Consumers (ADEAC), with the aim of highlighting beach quality and amenities in order to raise standards and increase public awareness of the issues faced by coastal areas.
Beating European contenders Greece, Turkey, France and Italy, Spanish beaches were considered to be the best in the categories of cleanliness, quality, safety and accessibility – the attributes required to be awarded the prestigious accolade. Another important qualification added this year means that lifeguards must have access to a defibrillator within five minute’s reach of any bather.
The Blue Flag scheme encompasses not only beaches but marinas and cruise ship ports also, with a grand total of 696 being awarded to Spain this year – an increase of twelve on last year’s total. The region of Valencia topped the Spanish Blue Flag hit-parade, although the Costa del Sol acquitted itself more than adequately, with Marbella, Estepona and Fuengirola being awarded four flags each as well as Marbella marina recovering its award.
The Costa del Sol’s superb microclimate, shaped thanks to the protective presence of the Sierras Bermeja and Nevada, ensures almost guaranteed sunshine with long summers offering plenty of opportunity to enjoy the superb beaches!
Altavista has a wide range of properties benefitting from sea views as well as being within easy reach of many of the area’s blue flag beaches.
Contact us to find your ideal property.
