With the weather getting warmer, I’m starting to think about buying property again. I was previously looking at houses on the southern peninsula, but I recently stumbled upon La Palma in the Canary Islands and it feels like discovering a new world! There aren’t many Chinese people here, and it’s not discussed much on the forums, so I’m starting this thread to get a conversation going.
Everyone calls it ‘Isla Bonita,’ and for good reason. I’ve spent a lot of time doing my homework online, looking at information and videos, and the natural scenery there is truly top-tier. From volcanic landscapes and ancient forests to the astronomical observatories with star-filled skies, it seems perfect for those who love peace, quiet, and nature. Crucially, compared to more popular islands like Tenerife or Gran Canaria, La Palma’s property prices are much more affordable. It feels like an undervalued gem that hasn’t been overdeveloped yet.
But an investment can’t be based on positives alone. I’ve also identified some potential pitfalls… or rather, things to be aware of. First, the impact of the 2021 volcanic eruption. Although it’s over now, it has certainly affected property values and insurance costs in some parts of the island, so you must research the specific location before buying. Second is transportation. While it has an airport and ports, it’s still an island, and the cost and time of traveling to mainland Europe need to be considered. Lastly, job opportunities. The economy is mainly based on tourism and agriculture, so if you’re planning to move there for work, your options might be limited.
A Brief Analysis of Property Prices in Different Areas of La Palma
I’ve looked at listings in a few main areas, and the differences are quite significant. Here’s a simple table for reference. The prices are average listing prices I’ve seen on major property websites, so they may not be exact but should give you an idea of the trend:
| Area | Features | Price Range (Apartment) | Price Range (House) |
|---|
| Santa Cruz de La Palma | Capital city, convenient, all amenities | €100k - €200k | From €250k |
| Los Llanos de Aridane | Island’s largest city, commercial hub | €80k - €180k | From €200k |
| El Paso | Near the national park, great scenery | €90k - €150k | From €180k |
| Breña Alta / Baja | Near the capital and airport, good transport links | Relatively lower prices | Relatively lower prices |
My feeling is: If you have a budget, aren’t looking for the hustle and bustle of a big city, and want a place where you can truly ‘slow down,’ while also using the property as a La Palma property for holiday rentals, then La Palma is definitely worth considering. However, if buying a house in La Palma is purely for short-term speculation, or if you have very high requirements for convenience, then you might want to think twice. Are there any members here who are in the Canary Islands or even on La Palma itself? I’d love to hear about your actual living experiences!
