Living in Vilaflor: Peaceful Mountain Living in the Heart of Tenerife

Vilaflor is a small mountain village located on the southern slopes of Mount Teide, and it holds the distinction of being the highest town in all the Canary Islands. At over 1,400 meters above sea level, it offers a lifestyle unlike anywhere else on the island – cooler temperatures, pristine air, stunning nature, and deep Canarian roots. Far from the tourist zones and coastal resorts, Vilaflor attracts residents who want authenticity, space, and silence. It’s a place to disconnect, reflect, and enjoy life in rhythm with the seasons, surrounded by pine forests, vineyards, and volcanic landscapes.

Property in Vilaflor is attractively priced, especially for those looking for land, space, or restoration projects. Traditional Canarian houses in the village start from around €150,000, while renovated homes or rustic-style villas with gardens often fall between €200,000 and €300,000. Larger country estates or fincas with land and farming potential can range from €300,000 upwards depending on plot size, condition, and location. Apartments are limited, as most of the housing consists of standalone or semi-detached houses, many with historic or rural charm. The real estate market here is slow-paced and stable, suited more for end-users than investors or short-term buyers.

Taxes and ownership costs in Vilaflor are very low. IBI (property tax) for a small home typically ranges between €150 and €300 annually. Community fees are rare, since most homes are independent. For those with larger rural plots, the main costs come from garden or land maintenance, but even those are modest compared to coastal properties. Utilities are also lower due to cooler temperatures, which reduce the need for air conditioning. Vilaflor is ideal for those looking to reduce monthly costs and live simply, without sacrificing quality of life.

The housing stock is mainly composed of traditional Canarian architecture – thick stone walls, tiled roofs, and wooden balconies. Many homes feature patios, terraced gardens, or private plots with space for growing vegetables or keeping animals. Some properties have been lovingly restored to preserve their original features, while others offer renovation opportunities for buyers seeking a more personalized mountain retreat. New construction is rare, but when it exists, it’s usually respectful of the village’s rustic aesthetic and planning restrictions. Whether you're looking for a cozy cottage or a multi-generational home, Vilaflor offers unique and character-rich options.

Life in Vilaflor is quiet, connected to nature, and deeply rooted in tradition. The town has a small but complete infrastructure: supermarkets, bakeries, a pharmacy, primary school, health center, and several family-run restaurants. Local agriculture and viticulture are still important, and residents often grow their own produce. The surrounding forests and trails make it a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Cultural life revolves around village fiestas, religious celebrations, and seasonal agricultural events, where neighbors still gather as they have for generations. It’s not a place for nightlife or shopping malls – those are over 30 minutes away in the southern towns – but it offers a calm and intentional lifestyle that appeals to those who’ve grown tired of the rush.

The climate in Vilaflor is completely different from the coast. With its altitude, the air is clean, crisp, and cooler – especially in the evenings and during the winter months. Summers are pleasant, with daytime highs typically in the low-to-mid 20s°C, while winters can bring chilly nights and occasional frost. Rainfall is more common than in southern beach towns, and the village sees several weeks a year of mist, cloud, or even light snowfall – a rarity in Tenerife. This mountain climate creates lush greenery in spring and autumn, and the almond blossom in January and February is one of the most beautiful natural events on the island.

Vilaflor has a small and tightly-knit population, mostly Canarian, with a growing number of foreign residents who have chosen to live closer to nature. Most of the international community is made up of Northern Europeans – German, Belgian, and Swiss in particular – as well as a few long-term residents from mainland Spain. The pace of life is slow, people know each other by name, and integration into the community is both possible and welcome for those who appreciate the local culture. Spanish is essential here, as very few services are adapted to tourists or expats. For people looking to experience the “real” Tenerife and build lasting local connections, Vilaflor offers a warm and grounded environment.

In conclusion, Vilaflor is a place for those who value space, authenticity, and silence. It’s not for everyone – the altitude, cooler weather, and rural isolation mean it doesn’t suit those looking for beach life or entertainment. But for people seeking peace, self-sufficiency, or a deeper connection with nature and tradition, Vilaflor is a rare gem. With affordable housing, minimal costs, and breathtaking surroundings, it’s one of the few places in Tenerife where time truly seems to slow down.