Mission Statement: to assist the integration of foreign residents living in Spain
By Johanna Gardener •
Published: 27 Oct 2024 • 19:03
• 3 minutes read
Fincas across Spain can be rural or coastal and can provide rustic or luxury living options
Credit: Shutterstock: Stephen Langhans
Property listings go beyond standard homes and apartments to include unique options like the finca, a rustic countryside estate that captures the charm of traditional Spanish rural life.
In Spain, it s not only houses and apartment buildings that are up for sale—there’s an entire range of unique property types, each with its own Spanish terminology. One such property type is the finca” a concept unfamiliar to many newcomers. A finca is essentially a countryside estate or farmhouse, typically situated on a plot of land, often exuding rustic charm with features like stone walls, wooden beams, and clay tile roofs. These properties embody the essence of rural Spanish living and offer a distinctive, traditional character that many buyers find enchanting.
Fincas are rustic yet can denote luxury and elegance
The word “finca”, originating from Arabic in the 1400’s, translates to “estate” or “farmhouse”, but usually takes on greater fame when framed against the often fabulous views it can behold. From its humble origins amongst the Moors, the finca has come to represent a way of life steeped in historical and agricultural significance and even denoting luxury and elegance.The average plot size of a finca in Spain is around 6.000m2, which can obviously vary, depending on the region.
Many expats come to Spain to seek out that new Mediterranean lifestyle, often searching for the typical Spanish villa or apartment with a sea-view balcony. For those who prefer a quieter, rural life away from the hustle and bustle, a finca might be exactly what you re looking for. These countryside retreats offer an idyllic blend of luxury and tranquility, perfect for embracing a laid-back lifestyle surrounded by sun, fresh air, and birdsong. Many weddings in Spain are held in fincas –the proof in the pudding that they provide wonderful backdrops, excellent photos and most importantly, sensational memories.
Spanish fincas are characterised by deep tradition and history
Fincas vary in size and design. From rustic farmhouses surrounded by blooming vineyards to luxurious estates with ample gardens and private pools, Spain offers great variety. What they all have in common of course is that cemented within their walls is deep Spanish tradition. Many have been passed down over generations and behold decades of history. They have their own unique charm and cultural heritage. The traditional finca often flaunts quintessentially Spanish characteristics including whitewashed walls and terracotta roofs and are often bordered by olive groves and vineyards or even orange and lemon trees. They serve as a permanent home, second home or quite easily, as a holiday rental – particularly in more touristic regions including Andalucía where demand for rural fincas is exponentially growing.
Are fincas always rustic?
Fact: purchasing a finca is an excellent investment. Its versatile qualities as a family home, a rural retreat or a holiday rental option open up many doors. Avoid been thrown by the term “rustic” too. Many come complete with modern luxuries including tennis courts and swimming pools. If it so happens that you do prefer the more rustic way of living, why not buy a few hens and start to collect your own eggs every morning? Often fincas are not just one building but several as their long heritage may go back as far as once being a home for agricultural labourers. It isn’t unusual to see fincas split into a mainhouse with separate farmhouses, barns or storage sheds, recreating history in modern times.
Of course, not all fincas need to be rural. With Spain’s extensive coastline, it comes as no surprise that such things exist as coastal or even vineyard fincas. Andalucía is a region particularly rich in this type of lodging due to its well-ingrained agricultural heritage. Coastal fincas in Andalucía afford direct access to the stunning Mediterranean coastline, and aside from being a region rich in olive production, it is also a region highly renowned for its wine production – especially sweet wines.
If you are as convinced about purchasing a finca as I am, it is important to make sure that all bases are covered. Fincas are often not only rustic in design but also in infrastructure and obtaining the correct paperwork with conscientious detailing of house plans, electrical systems, water supply, and the condition of its infrastructure is a must. Some fincas may have “cave” bedrooms, an individual well or water supply, or underground bodegas (wine cellars) and it is imperative that these are checked over beforehand to avoid a legal headache post-purchase.
Spanish fincas: an investment 365 days a year
Fincas in Spain offer a unique and versatile alternative to the typical villa, blending rich history and heritage with modern comfort and charm. Whether nestled in the countryside, along the coast, or surrounded by lush vineyards, these properties provide an idyllic setting for a second home, a profitable rental, or even a grand event venue. Unlike villas, fincas carry with them stories and legacies that add depth and allure, making them a truly exciting choice. For those seeking more than just a property—a genuine piece of Spain’s cultural landscape—a finca offers unmatched character, tranquility, and endless opportunity.
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Written by
Johanna Gardener
Originally from Manchester, UK and with a degree in English with Modern Foreign Languages, she has been a permanent resident in Spain for the past 12 years. Many of these years, she has spent working as a secondary school teacher, as well as in journalism, editing and marketing. She currently lives in the historic centre of Malaga, where she enjoys writing, walking and animals.
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