Finca La Palmera - Eco-Living Paradise in Rural Andalusia

About This Space

Finca La Palmera is a beautifully restored 200-year-old farmhouse offering a unique eco-living experience on Spain's Costa de la Luz. Nestled in the idyllic village of La Zarzuela, this coliving space is surrounded by a lush 2-hectare garden with palm trees, a permaculture garden, and dedicated spaces for relaxation and work. The atmosphere is one of calm, warm energy, cultivated by a passionate host and a community of thoughtful individuals seeking to slow down and reconnect. It provides an ideal environment for digital nomads and remote workers, with reliable WiFi, multiple coworking nooks, and a perfect balance of social connection and personal freedom.

Biggest Pros

• Incredibly peaceful, calming atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings
• Warm, welcoming, and authentic community vibe fostered by the host
• Well-equipped for remote work with good WiFi and dedicated workspaces
• Unique eco-friendly and sustainable living philosophy
• Proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks for outdoor activities

Biggest Cons

Unique Selling Point

A genuine non-profit eco-living community set in a historic farmhouse, where sustainable practices, personal connection, and immersion in rural Andalusian life are prioritized over commercial tourism.

Neighborhood

Set in the authentic, quiet rural village of La Zarzuela, offering a true escape from tourist areas with pastoral walks, local culture, and a handful of village restaurants within walking distance. The area is surrounded by three National Parks.

Community Vibe

A warm, family-like community of thoughtful individuals seeking to slow down, reconnect, and live sustainably.

Social Events

The community emphasizes organic connection over forced scheduling. Core traditions include welcome and goodbye dinners to foster integration. Residents often self-organize activities like shared meals, board game nights, ukulele sessions, and local excursions, creating a balance between social engagement and personal space.

Typical Resident

Digital nomads, remote workers, and travelers passionate about sustainability, nature, and authentic cultural experiences, looking for a peaceful place to focus, relax, and connect with like-minded people.

Amenities

The finca blends historic charm with functional comfort. The communal kitchen and living/coworking area are in a separate building surrounded by gardens. Private rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and direct garden access. The expansive outdoor space is a highlight, featuring a yoga deck nestled among pines, multiple hammocks, a permaculture garden for harvesting fresh produce, and plenty of quiet corners for work or relaxation.

• High-speed WiFi (reliable for remote work and video calls)
• Multiple coworking tables and nooks in common areas
• Fully-equipped communal kitchen
• Private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and garden entrances
• Outdoor yoga and meditation deck
• Permaculture garden with fresh vegetables and herbs
• Multiple hammocks and garden relaxation areas
• Fireplace in common area
• On-site laundry facilities
• Bicycles available for guest use

Location & Accessibility

Located in a rural village offering peace and quiet, with beautiful beaches and national parks a short drive away. While the setting feels remote, it is well-positioned for exploration. Having personal transportation significantly enhances the experience, though it's possible to manage with bikes and planning.

Public Transport

The nearest major train station is in Algeciras (approx. 55 km away). Local bus services run from nearby towns like Tahivilla and Zahara, but reaching these bus stops from the finca requires a bike, hitchhike, or a ride.

Car Considerations

A car is highly recommended for full independence, easier grocery trips, and exploring the surrounding beaches, parks, and white villages. On-site parking is available.

Walkability

The immediate village is walkable, with a few local restaurants within a few minutes' walk. For anything beyond the village, a bike is useful for getting to the bus stops or nearby areas. Taxis or ride-sharing would likely need to be booked.

Key Distances

Approximately 4-7 minutes drive to Zahara beach and other pristine Costa de la Luz beaches. Surrounded by three National Parks (including Breña y Marismas). The vibrant town of Tarifa, a kitesurfing hub, is a short drive away.

Challenges & Tips

The primary challenge is the rural location without immediate access to major public transport. Planning is key if you don't have a car. Bikes are provided and are excellent for local trips and reaching bus stops. The host and community are often helpful with tips and occasional rides.

Lifestyle Activities

Social & Cultural

Community life is organic, with optional shared dinners, game nights, and skill-sharing, fostering genuine connections.

• Welcome and goodbye community dinners
• Self-organized board game or ukulele nights
• Shared meals and cooking
• Local village explorations

Wellness & Fitness

A focus on mindful living with dedicated spaces for yoga and movement amidst nature.

• Morning yoga on the pine-surrounded deck
• Meditation in the garden
• Running on nearby beaches
• Padel tennis at a nearby facility

Outdoor & Adventure

Exceptional access to world-class beaches and protected natural parks, ideal for water sports and hiking.

• Kitesurfing and wingfoiling at nearby beaches (Punta Paloma, Valdevaqueros)
• Surfing on the Costa de la Luz
• Hiking in Breña y Marismas Natural Park
• Mountain biking through national parks and along the coast
• Beach walks and swimming

Ratings