Why Melegís, Lecrín Valley, Granada
Often referred to as the "Valley of Happiness," the Lecrín Valley is a lush, orange-and-lemon-scented enclave nestled between the city of Granada and the Mediterranean coast. Melegís is arguably the "jewel" of the valley—a white-washed village known for its exceptional views, citrus groves, and traditional architecture.
The primary draw for investors and lifestyle buyers is the balance of authenticity and accessibility. Unlike the more commercialized Costa del Sol, Melegís offers a slower, rural Spanish pace of life. Buying a traditional mill (molino) here is a rare opportunity to own a piece of industrial heritage, often featuring thick stone walls, water rights, and unique architectural volumes that make for stunning conversions.
Climate & Lifestyle
The climate is a major selling point. Because of its location in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, the valley stays greener than the arid plains of Almería.
- Spring/Summer: Springs are fragrant with orange blossoms. Summers are hot but less humid than the coast, with cooler evenings breezes rolling off the mountains.
- Autumn/Winter: Winters are mild and sunny, though you will see snow on the peaks above you. It is one of the few places in the world where you can ski in the morning (Sierra Nevada) and have a drink on the beach in the afternoon (Costa Tropical).
Life revolves around the "Paseo"—the daily walk—and long lunches at local spots like Los Naranjos. People here value community; the rhythm is dictated by the agricultural seasons rather than the 24-hour clock.
Getting There & Around
Melegís is exceptionally well-connected for a rural village:
- Airports: Granada Airport (GRX) is 35 minutes away. Malaga International (AGP), with flights to almost everywhere, is an easy 75-90 minute drive via the A-44 and A-7 motorways.
- Cities & Coast: You are 25 minutes from the historic Alhambra in Granada city and 30 minutes from the beaches of Salobreña and Motril.
- Local Transport: While there are local buses, a car is essential for practical living. The roads are generally in excellent condition, though the interior village streets are narrow and better navigated on foot or in a small vehicle.
Practical Living
Daily life is surprisingly convenient for foreigners:
- Healthcare: There are local clinics (consultorios) in the valley for basics, and the state-of-the-art PTS Hospital in Granada is just 20 minutes away.
- Education: While local schools are Spanish-speaking, there are international schools in Granada (such as ISG).
- Connectivity: Fiber-optic internet has reached most of the valley, making it a viable spot for remote workers.
- Supplies: Melegís has small grocery stores and bakeries. For large supermarkets, the town of Dúrcal is a 10-minute drive.
Property Considerations (The Old Mill)
Purchasing a mill involves specific technical challenges:
- Structure & Humidity: Mills were built near water sources. Dampness (capillary rise) is the most common issue. Ensure you have a structural survey to check foundations and "tanking" requirements for lower levels.
- Protected Status: Many mills are protected as "Patrimonio" (heritage). Renovating them requires specific permits from the Delegación de Cultura. You cannot always change the facade or structural footprint.
- Utilities: Older rural mills may not be connected to the modern sewage system or may have antiquated electrical feeds. Upgrading these into "Urbano" standards can be costly.
- Costs: Renovation costs in Andalusia currently range from €1,000 to €1,500 per square meter for high-quality finishes. Skilled tradespeople (masons, carpenters) are available locally, but project management is essential if you aren't on-site.
Buying as a Foreigner
The Spanish buying process is transparent but bureaucratic:
- The Process: Once an offer is accepted, you sign a Contrato de Arras (deposit contract) and pay 10%. Completion happens before a Notary.
- Taxes: Budget approximately 10-12% on top of the purchase price for costs. This includes ITP (Transfer Tax—7% in Andalusia), notary fees, land registry fees, and legal fees.
- NIE: You must obtain a Spanish Tax ID (NIE) and open a Spanish bank account before purchasing.
- The "Illegal Build" Trap: In rural areas, ensure the property is Urbano or has a DAFO certificate. Many older buildings were extended without permits; a good lawyer is non-negotiable here to ensure you aren't inheriting fines.
Community & Expat Life
The Lecrín Valley has a sophisticated, low-key expat community consisting mainly of Northern Europeans, North Americans, and British retirees or "digital nomads."
Unlike the coastal "ghettos," expats here tend to integrate with the local Spanish population. The locals in Melegís are notoriously friendly but usually speak only Spanish (or the local dialect). Learning basic Spanish is the "key to the kingdom"—it transforms you from a tourist into a neighbor. The community is active, with hiking groups, art classes, and local festivals that welcome foreign participation. Integration isn't just encouraged; it’s the best part of living here.
