Living in Ifonche y Benítez: Nature, Silence, and Open Skies

Ifonche y Benítez is a sparsely populated rural area nestled in the hills between Arona and Adeje, sitting at around 1,000 meters above sea level. Surrounded by pine forests, ravines, and walking trails, it offers one of the most peaceful and secluded lifestyles available in southern Tenerife. This is not a town or village in the traditional sense – it’s a collection of rural homes, fincas, and agricultural land set against a dramatic natural backdrop. For those seeking total disconnection, fresh mountain air, and space to live independently, Ifonche y Benítez is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. 

The property market here is made up almost entirely of rural houses and fincas, often with large plots of land. Prices vary depending on access, condition, and views. Renovation projects or small country homes can start around €180,000, while larger fincas with land, water tanks, and farming potential usually range between €250,000 and €400,000. Fully renovated properties with panoramic sea views and good road access can exceed €500,000, especially if they are off-grid or set up for eco-living or rural tourism. Inventory is limited, and buyers here are usually looking for something very specific.

Ownership costs are low, though they can vary depending on the nature of the land and the services available. IBI is minimal – often between €150 and €300 per year – and there are no community fees since the properties are independent. However, rural living comes with its own costs: water rights, land maintenance, private road upkeep, and self-sufficiency systems (like solar panels or tanks) may require investment. On the other hand, utilities are often lower or even absent for properties that are completely off-grid.

Homes in Ifonche y Benítez are spread out, private, and often built in traditional Canarian rural style. Stone walls, wooden beams, and thick construction are common, reflecting the area’s agricultural past. Some properties include old barns or outbuildings that can be converted for workshops, studios, or guest rooms. Others have been modernized into cozy, sustainable homes. The emphasis is always on views, tranquility, and integration with nature. There are no apartment buildings, and very few homes come on the market – those that do are often snapped up by buyers seeking isolation and natural beauty.

Day-to-day life in Ifonche is deeply tied to the environment. There are no supermarkets, schools, or pharmacies in the immediate area – those are found in Arona, La Camella, or Adeje, all within 20–30 minutes by car. Residents here rely on personal vehicles, home deliveries, and strong planning. But the rewards are significant: stunning sunsets, silence broken only by birds or wind, and some of the island’s most beautiful hiking trails just outside your door. It’s a haven for artists, nature lovers, remote workers, or anyone looking to live outside the noise of the modern world.

The climate is cooler than on the coast, with pleasant summers and chilly winters. Daytime highs in summer range from 22–26°C, while winter days average around 15–18°C, with night temperatures dropping below 10°C. Cloud and mist are common in the cooler months, especially in the late afternoons, but the area still benefits from many sunny days and fresh, dry air. Heating is often needed in winter, but homes stay pleasantly cool in summer, reducing the need for air conditioning.

The population in Ifonche y Benítez is extremely limited, with just a few residents scattered across the hills. Most are Canarians who have lived off the land for generations, along with a growing number of international homeowners seeking privacy, farming potential, or alternative lifestyles. Spanish is essential, though the community is open and respectful, especially to those who show care for the land and the rural way of life. There is a strong spirit of self-reliance here – neighbors are distant but usually helpful when needed.

In conclusion, Ifonche y Benítez is a place for people who want space, nature, and a slower rhythm. It’s not for everyone – services are distant, and rural living demands effort – but for those drawn to solitude, land, and open skies, it’s a rare opportunity. Here, you don’t just own a home; you live in a landscape. And that’s something few places can offer.