Those flying from the UK to Madrid will now be able to access the Costa del Sol in just two and a half hours thanks to a new Alta Velocidad Espanola train connection linking Madrid and Malaga, making property in the area a more attractive proposition to holiday-home owners and buy-to-let buyers.

Previously those travelling from Madrid to Malaga often made the trip by a 1,100 kilometre car journey to visit their properties. Inaugurated on 23 December 2007, the Madrid-Málaga AVE reaches speeds of up to 350 kilometres, substantially shortening the trip.

"Costa del Sol virgins will soon discover that we have 50 or more fabulous golf courses, a stunning year-round climate and they too will be boarding the AVE for weekends away with family or friends," says Adam Gale, Director of property agents Duchy Estates.

"Costa del Sol property prices are also lower than in the salubrious suburbs of Madrid so they may be pleasantly surprised with what they can get for their euros."

In the first year of service, Spanish rail company RENFE expect 1,650,000 people to use the AVE Málaga service and by 2009 a total of two million, double the number carried by the previous Talgo 200 service. Civil Aviation expect airline passenger numbers between Madrid and Málaga to reduce by 40 per cent because of the AVE acting as a more convenient mode of transport for tourists and property buyers.

Both Vueling and Spanair have already cut back on their services between the two cities in direct response to the cost-effective train service, which is currently priced at 76 euros for a single fare but can be secured for as low as 30 euros if booked online in advance.

RENFE is also currently refunding half the ticket price for delays of as little as 15 minutes and the full price if the train is delayed by more than half an hour. Once the service is fully tested and minor glitches ironed out, refunds will be made in full if the train arrives more than five minutes late - a common policy for established AVE routes.

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Article published 19 March 2008