Country Houses

There's an alternative kind of accommodation aside from the obvious hotels and pensions on La Palma, and that's casas rurales - country houses. As the name suggests, these are houses for rent in the countryside. It's self-catering accommodation, which is, of course, very flexible, and tends to suit walkers. The local government has a registration scheme, and they have a reputation for being demanding, which is good news for tourists. They're mostly very comfortable, and some have swimming pools. Since they're in the countryside, they're usually in very peaceful surroundings. The downside of that is that you probably need a hire car to go anywhere else. (Although some walking tours come complete with transport).

The photos are of the cheapest casa rural I know of, Casa Maria Cruz, in Puntallana. It was built as a family home in the beginning of the 19th century and has just been renovated to include 21st century comforts.

Prices vary from 50€ a day for two people to 70€ a day for four (babies free), minimum stay three days. This includes cleaning before and after your stay. More information at: http://es.geocities.com/casamariacruz/index.htm The owners only speak Spanish. If you want to book in English, email me: There's information on other country houses at: http://www.islabonita.es/

If you have any questions or problems