Lately, I’ve been researching rural properties in Spain and stumbled upon a very unique type of home—the cave house, or ‘Casa Cueva.’ They are mainly concentrated in Andalusia, especially in the Guadix and Baza areas of Granada province. The pictures look incredibly cool, they stay warm in winter and cool in summer, and the prices listed on many real estate websites are shockingly low
! Some are even listed for just thirty or forty thousand euros. This has really got me excited. Could I really own my own cave in Spain for just a few tens of thousands of euros? If anyone knows about this, let’s dive in and discuss.
These aren’t primitive caves; they are traditional local dwellings. Many have been modernized with full access to water, electricity, and the internet. The interiors are often decorated just like a regular villa, sometimes even more uniquely. Their biggest selling point is their natural ‘central air conditioning’ property. Thanks to the thick rock walls, they maintain a constant temperature of around 18-22 degrees Celsius year-round. When it’s a scorching 40 degrees outside in summer, it’s wonderfully cool inside; in winter, when it’s freezing cold outside, the cave stays warm. You could save a fortune on electricity bills alone each year!
What Are the Prices Really Like?
I’ve done some research, and the prices vary quite a bit, depending on the condition, size, and location. I’ve created a simple table for your reference:
| Price Range | Condition | Notes |
|---|
| €20,000 - €50,000 | Needs complete renovation | Basically an undeveloped cave. Utilities like water and electricity may need to be reconnected for these cave houses |
| . Ideal for those with strong DIY skills. |
| €60,000 - €120,000 | Good condition, ready to move in | Most options on the market fall into this range. Decent decoration and fully equipped with appliances. |
| €150,000+ | Luxury renovation, with garden/pool | Usually consists of several interconnected caves, offering a large area, private land, and even a cave pool. |
There are two sides to every coin. The advantages of cave houses are energy efficiency, tranquility, low cost, and a unique experience. However, the disadvantages must also be carefully considered. For instance, natural light is often more limited than in a conventional house, with windows only on the facade. There can be issues with dampness, requiring a good ventilation system. Additionally, due to their unique structure, renovating the internal layout can be difficult, and you might have less flexibility for outdoor projects like creating your dream Spanish garden. Also, while the prices of rural properties in Spain are appealing, remember that most cave houses are in remote villages where amenities and transportation may not be as convenient.
I think a Casa Cueva is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique living experience, who love tranquility, or who want to run a distinctive B&B. But if you have high requirements for natural light and convenience, you might want to think twice. Are there any members here who have lived in or bought a cave house? Please share your real-life experiences! I’m already dreaming of my cave pool, haha!
