Sleepy Spanish town loved by Brits that has seen a huge population surge

A small, sleepy coastal town in Spain that’s known for its whitewashed streets and Mediterranean views has seen its population soar by over a third in just eight years - with thousands of Britons now calling it home.

Torrox is located on the Costa del Sol in Andalusia and has grown by 5,815 residents since 2017, bringing its population to 22,345, according to figures cited by The Olive Press.

The town, which is split into Torrox Pueblo, a traditional hillside village, and Torrox Costa, a seaside resort, has long been a favourite among British and German expats.

Unlike some Spanish towns that have struggled with overcrowding, Torrox’s rapid growth has been described as sustainable.

The town has no limits on tourist housing and local officials insist the expansion is being handled carefully.

Torrox mayor Oscar Medina explained that while development is important, it must be balanced.

“This sustainable development has been important, but we cannot grow at any price and have to analyse multiple factors, including that of tourist housing,” he said.

The town’s appeal is clear - five and a half miles of coastline, a mild climate, and property prices still lower than in nearby hotspots like Nerja and Málaga.

There are also two major urban projects on the way - Calaceite and Puerto Narixa - which will bring even more housing and facilities to the area.

Torrox’s popularity has driven up demand for homes, but experts believe the market remains stable.

Jose Antonio Perez, the CEO of the Real Estate Business School, said that while tourism plays a key role, Torrox has managed to strike a balance between residential and holiday homes.

“It has completed the most new homes in the province along with renovated properties attracting residents from Málaga City and neighbouring municipalities, due to housing availability, quality of life and prices,” he said.

Official figures show just over 1,000 properties in Torrox are registered as tourist rentals - roughly 5% of all homes in the area.

Perez added: “These tourist homes do not harm Torrox at all, since they attract employment, talent, consumption, and taxes provided that infrastructure and services grow and adapt at the same time, which is happening.”

Many Britons looking to escape to the Spanish coast have been drawn to Torrox, thanks to its mix of modern facilities and historic charm.

The town boasts an average annual temperature of 18C, with many locals proudly displaying signs reading “Mejor clima de Europa” (Best climate in Europe).

Located just 31 miles (50km) from Málaga and 10 miles (15km) from Nerja, Torrox is well-connected, yet quieter than some of the Costa del Sol’s larger resorts.

It offers a range of beaches, traditional tapas bars, and scenic hiking trails in the nearby Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park.

Despite its growing popularity, the town has retained its authentic Andalusian feel, especially in Torrox Pueblo, where narrow streets, beautiful churches, and orange-tree-lined squares create a relaxed atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Torrox Costa, just three miles away, is home to a long promenade, modern apartments, and a historic lighthouse that overlooks the Mediterranean.

Though often overlooked in favour of more famous Spanish destinations, Torrox has a fascinating past.

During Roman times, it was a big producer of garum, a popular fermented fish sauce that was exported across the empire.

Later, during the Moorish period, the town became known for silk production, with links to both Málaga and Granada.

Today, remnants of its Roman and Moorish heritage can still be seen, including the Roman archaeological site near the lighthouse and several historic churches and palaces in the old town.

With its growing popularity, Torrox is expected to continue expanding, especially as new developments bring more housing, businesses, and infrastructure to the town.