With the weather getting nicer, I’ve been thinking about buying a small villa with a yard in Northern Spain. It would be great for escaping the summer heat and could also be rented out at other times. My family and I love the green mountains and cool climate of the north, so we’ve narrowed our search to the regions of Asturias and Cantabria. However, after browsing Idealista for a few weeks, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options and information, so I’d love to hear your thoughts.
My current impression is that the natural scenery in Asturias seems more pristine, especially in the areas near the Picos de Europa National Park—it’s like a paradise on Earth. The property prices seem to vary widely, from old stone houses needing major renovation for around €100k-€200k to modern villas for €400k-€500k. On the other hand, Cantabria, particularly around Santander, feels more modern and upscale. Daily life might be more convenient there, but the overall property prices also seem to be higher. I’m not sure if my impressions are correct, though.
Regional Comparison
I’ve put together a quick table comparing a few points that are important to me, but much of this information is based on online research and may not be accurate for villas in Northern Spain. I hope those with experience, especially friends who have lived there long-term, can help correct and add to it. Your firsthand experiences are the most valuable.
| Feature | Asturias | Cantabria |
|---|
| Natural Scenery | More rugged mountains, more pristine | Beautiful coastline, high-quality beaches |
| Main Cities | Oviedo, Gijón | Santander |
| Transportation | Airport has fewer routes | Santander airport has more routes |
| Property Prices (Impression) | Seems more affordable overall, more options | Coastal areas, especially around Santander, are more expensive |
| Atmosphere | More rustic and quiet | More modern and vibrant |
Some Questions
I have a few main questions for everyone: 1. From an investment and future appreciation perspective, which region has more potential? 2. If I plan to rent it out, which area attracts more tourists and offers a better rental yield? 3. Besides these two regions, what are your thoughts on the northern coast of Galicia? I’ve noticed the property prices there seem quite attractive too. Is the rainfall there really much heavier than in Asturias and Cantabria? I look forward to hearing your genuine experiences. Thanks in advance!
