The ancient city of Elche has many charms, from its historical buildings, its local traditions and its 12km coastline just 15 minutes from the town. Plus the new town is Spain's shoe-making capital with lots of outlets for those keen on their footwear.

But the most stunning aspect of Elche is its 300,000 palm trees, planted in the 4th century in a vast forest which includes the 19th century landscape park called the Huerto del Cura (open in summer from 9am-8.30pm and in winter from 9am-6pm). In this exotic paradise you can wander among the orange trees and pomegranate trees, cacti and lily ponds.

In August the city heats up for its local fiestas. For the rest of the year it's a typically Spanish town, not yet really discovered by foreign buyers. Nearby you can go rock climbing, cycling, mountaineering, diving, paragliding and horseriding.

Large new villas and country houses with extensive land just outside of the town cost from £160,000-£200,000. Spacious central apartments and townhouses with 4 bedrooms cost around £100,000.