what is the difference between a finca and a cortijo
This is a question that seems to get asked a lot. The main thing to understand firstly is what a finca is.
Finca in strictly legal terms is Plot, you’ll see this on descriptions of property on the title deed of a property or property registry description.
The Most common ones are:
Finca Urbana: urban plot, meaning a plot of land inside the perimeter of the urban zoning of a municipality.
Finca Rustica: Rural Plot, a plot outside of the urban zoning of a municipality
But in spanish and urban or industrial plot is colloquially described as “Parcela” Though this is also true if its a small plot of land its flat and generally rectangular in shape.
“Finca” is generally used for a decent sized plot of land usually over 2000 m2 that may or may not have a building on it.
Generaly though when somebody calls land a finca in spain they are refering to a smallholding of some sort. You typical finca will be anything from a 5000 m2 plot with a small Workman’s house ( casa de apero, nave agricola, almacen, etc ), or a larger working farm with a house on it being anything from a one bedroom cottage to a decent sized family house or two and many hectares of land.
Cortijo on the other hand is a large working farm of usually more than 10 hectares with a farm house building which would include minimum of one main building with two wings giving it a “U” shape. Normally the main house, the guest wing and the stables and warehouse adjoining them leaving a large patio area in the middle. Sometimes these are closed off with a large gate big enough to get animals and materials in through them giving it a fantastic appeal.
For a property to officially be called a Cortijo it should have at least one tower. Though they don’t all have this a lot of them will have and some will have two.
If it has three towers which is far less common, it is called a “Hacienda” or Cortijo, but a Cortijo can never be a Hacienda officially if it does not have three towers. Though of course properties get redefined all the time, it was this way back in the day.
We have seen a lot of cortijos and haciendas in our time and they can be very different. And some people will even call a rather small “finca” a Cortijo as a term of endearment. like calling your toy Yorkshire terrier the guard dog.
Here are some examples:
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Country property Ronda: Andalucian Finca in Sierra de Cadiz P.O.R
Olvera, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€8,000,000
Country property Ronda: Andalucian Finca in Sierra de Cadiz Country property Ronda: ref TV320 An outstanding Andalucian finca of more than 11,000,000 sq m comprising the main 200 year old Cortijo/ hunting lodge of 1500 sq m and 12 other farm buildings dotted around this huge estate that could each be converted into an […]
- Bed20+
- Baths20
- m²2500
- Lot Size11660000 m²
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Costa de la Luz 26 bedroom beach Hotel for sale andalucia Spain
Caños de Meca, Costa De La Luz, Vejer de la Frontera, Costa de la Luz
€6,000,000
Costa de la Luz 26 bedroom beach Hotel for sale andalucia Spain REF: SH3 Unique opportunity to buy a beautiful well established hotel on the costa de la luz. This Hotel consists of 26 double rooms 2 of which are suites, and an additional 3 houses with three bedrooms each. A large restaurant that boasts a large dinning […]
- Bed30
- Baths30
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Stylish and unique country house for sale Gaucin.
Gaucin, Jimena de la Frontera, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€5,250,000
Stylish and unique country house for sale Gaucin. Gaucin property for sale. Ref: MBC920 This property enjoys spectacular views of the mountains, Gibraltar and Africa and is set in a wonderful tranquil area. This large Gaucin country property is surrounded by forest and vegetation typical of Andalucia and the grounds are beautifully laid out. The […]
- Bed7
- Baths8
- m²581
- Lot Size36000 m²
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Featured
Luxury Golf Villas with sea views Casares costa del Sol
Casares, Costa del Sol, Costa del Sol, Malaga
From €5,000,000
Luxury Golf Villas with sea views Casares costa del Sol 12 luxury Villas for sale all totally unique and designed by a group of exceptional architects, all of these luxury villas are first line Golf and have outstanding sea views of the Mediterranean coast. The villas are all unique in their design ranging from […]
- Bed5
- Baths5
- m²500-1350
- Lot Size1800 - 3500 m²
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gaucin country home with avocado plantation and river frontage
Gaucin, Genal Valley, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€5,000,000
gaucin country home with avocado plantation and river frontage gaucin property Ref: MB4421 This 40 hectare farm has an exquisite position bordering the river genal at the bottom of Gaucin’s Genal valley. The property has 40 hectares of land of which 4 hectares approximately are avocados, 400 prudcutive and another 2600 that will be producing in […]
- Bed7
- Baths6
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Featured
Luxury Villa property for sale Casares Costa del sol
Casares, Costa del Sol, Costa del Sol, Malaga
From €3,700,000
Luxury Villa property for sale Casares Costa del sol New Development of 16 Modern and stylish villas, for sale Casares, on plots of up to 2,200 sqm, and featuring internal floor areas of between 605 sqm and 724 sqm, all with spectacular views out over our golf course. Villas boasting 4, 5 and 6 […]
- Bed4, 5, 6
- Baths4, 5, 6
- m²600 - 725
- Lot Size2200 m²
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Featured
For Sale New Addition
Stunning finca with vineyard near Ronda, inland Andalucia
Ronda, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns España
€3,200,000
Stunning finca with vineyard near Ronda, inland Andalucia Ronda property for sale MB8279 A stunning property 10 minutes from the historic town of Ronda surrounded by undulating cork forests in Ronda´s wine growing area. It is a working vineyard, set in 28 hectares of land, with 800 square meter house and 200 square meter terrace […]
- Bed5
- Baths6
- m²1200
- Lot Size280000 m²
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Sold
Country estate with luxury Cortijo for sale Gaucin
Casares, Gaucin, Genal Valley, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€3,000,000
Country estate with luxury Cortijo for sale Gaucin property for sale Gaucin: ref MBFY This one of a kind property located in the Municipality of Gaucin and surrounded by lush countryside is arguably one of the best luxury properties in the whole area. Featuring just under 100 hectares of the estate, A large 600 m2 […]
- Bed9
- Baths8
- m²1225
- Lot Size1000000 m²
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Featured
Stunning villa in Nagueles with Lake views Costa del sol
Costa del Sol, Marbella, Nagueles, Costa del Sol, Malaga
€2,950,000
Stunning villa in Nagueles with Lake views Costa del sol Villas for sale Costa del Sol: ref: JM2291 Stunning and Unique Villa for sale in the Nagueles Area of Marbella. Set in a large 4.500 m2 plot, a tropical paradise with its own small lake and private swimming pool, these wonderfully landscaped gardens surround […]
- Bed3
- Baths3
- m²339
- Lot Size4422 m²
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Sold
Luxury Cortijo for sale andalucia.
Sevilla, Costa de la Luz, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€2,950,000
Luxury Cortijo for sale andalucia. Cortijo for sale Andalucia Seville Ref: AD1 A rare opportunity to own an evocative slice of history, which could be a perfect retreat or a luxury boutique hotel. Just half an hour from Seville, The Palacio, a former ducal residence, has been lovingly restored to its former glory, a luxury […]
- Bed7
- Baths7
- m²1200
- Lot Size30000 m²
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Sold
costa de la luz tarifa property: Villa for sale in Tarifa 2,645,000 €
Costa De La Luz, Tarifa, Costa de la Luz
€2,645,000
costa de la luz tarifa property: Villa for sale in Tarifa costa de la luz tarifa property: ref TV245 Exclusive property located inside the Natural Park and a few minutes walking to the beach. Consisting on a main house and 5 apartments ideal to be rented. Plot with impressive sea views.
- Bed8
- Baths7
- m²320
- Lot Size1350 m²
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Featured
New Addition
Breathtaking Andalucian Villa Gaucin
Gaucin, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€2,500,000
Breathtaking Andalucian Villa Gaucin Gaucin country property ref: MBJS21 An enchanting estate that harmoniously blends the allure of an Andalucian Hacienda with the tranquility of the natural landscape, situated between the charming Gaucin Village and the meandering River Genal. Set amidst rolling terrain, with the majestic backdrop of the mountains gracing the horizon, this captivating […]
- Bed5
- Baths5
- m²450
- Lot Size52000 m²
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Sold
Luxury country property for sale in Gaucin with views over Africa
Gaucin, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€2,500,000
Luxury country property for sale in Gaucin with views over Africa country property for sale Gaucin ref: ZO1 Spectacular home with panoramic sea and mountain views, just two kilometers away from the charming Andulasian village of Gaucín. South facing and surrounded by mature trees beautiful minimalist gardens and an orchard. The main entrance has parking […]
- Bed4
- Baths6
- m²770
- Lot Size50000 m²
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Stunning hotel Caños de Meca Vejer.
Caños de Meca, Cadiz, Costa de la Luz España, Spain
€2,500,000
Stunning hotel Caños de Meca Vejer. Ref: vc117 Nestled in the heart of a stunning natural park, this unique and stunning hotel for sale in Spain is an old country farmhouse that dates back to the 18th century. Located in the peaceful and tranquil countryside close to the Atlantic coast, this charming rural hotel […]
- Bed16
- Baths16
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38.000 sqm land located very close to the beach, Zahora
Vejer de la Frontera, Zahora, Cadiz, Costa de la Luz España, Spain
€2,280,000
38.000 sqm land located very close to the beach, Zahora ref: vc098 38.000 sqm land located very close to the Zahora beach. The land has access by a country path and has a well. A great investment opportunity.
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Featured
Idylic Mountain finca with avocado plantation
Genal Valley, Genalguacil, Jubrique, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€2,250,000
Idyllic Mountain finca with avocado plantation Country property Andalucia ref MBJA A stunning Property tucked away in the genal valley and a short drive to Jubrique. The property is at the very end of a track with no through traffic, secluded and peaceful yet only a 10 minutes drive through the raw nature of the […]
- Bed2
- Baths1
- m²70
- Lot Size10.000 m²
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costa de la luz tarifa property: Villa for sale in Tarifa 2,180,000 €
Bolonia, Costa De La Luz, Tarifa, Costa de la Luz
€2,180,000
costa de la luz tarifa property: Villa for sale in Tarifa costa de la luz tarifa property: ref TV174 Great investment!! Fabulous villa located in Bolonia close to the beach, with a fantastic main house. The plot has three apartments, seven rooms, gardens and pools. Great rental potential!
- Bed10
- Baths10+
- m²550
- Lot Size2500 m²
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Country hotel for sale in Benalup costa de la Luz Andalucia
Benalup, Costa De La Luz, Costa de la Luz
€2,000,000
Country hotel for sale in Benalup costa de la Luz Andalucia Hotel for sale costa de la luz ref: MB191 country hotel for sale in benalup in la costa de la luz consisting of 19 bedrooms and two houses, one is 75 m2 and the other 150 m2, with 2 and three bedrooms respectively, a […]
- Bed20+
- Baths20
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Featured
Exquisite andalucian Villa a countryside paradise, Gaucin
El Colmenar, Gaucin, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€1,995,000
Exquisite Andalucian Villa, a countryside paradise Gaucin Gaucin country property for sale Ref: MBNL1 Nestled amidst the captivating landscapes of Andalusia, Southern Spain, this charming country villa draws inspiration from traditional Andalusian architecture. Situated near the picturesque village of Gaucin, this exceptional property offers a unique blend of tranquility and modern comfort. Boasting a total […]
- Bed5-7
- Baths5
- m²525
- Lot Size134000 m²
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Luxury B&B Hotel Mijas
Alhaurin, Costa del Sol, Fuengirola, Mijas, Costa del Sol, Malaga
€1,950,000
Luxury B&B Hotel Mijas Hotels and B&B’s for Sale Andalucia, Spain: ref MV2321 A meticulously renovated and enhanced 200 year old south facing Finca, offering modern luxury but retaining original rustic style and décor. The B&B is surrounded by 62,000 square metres (15 acres) of rustic woodland in an exclusive, secluded valley with magnificent […]
- Bed8
- Baths9
- m²766
- Lot Size62000 m²
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Sold
Clasic Cortijo sea views Manilva Costa del Sol andalucia
Casares, Costa del Sol, Manilva, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Costa del Sol, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€1,900,000
Clasic Cortijo views Manilva Costa del Sol andalucia REF: MB606 this stunning 750 m2 Cortijo is one of a kind, Set in the hills above Puerto Duquesa nearby on the Costa del sol, this luxurious Cortijo is set in 9000 m2 of manicured Gardens with fantastic sea views: the interior is clasic Andalucian style with […]
- Bed7
- Baths8
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Featured
Campsite for sale in the Ronda area. Cortes, Gaucin, Ronda
Cortes de la Frontera, Gaucin, Ronda, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€1,900,000
Campsite for sale in the Ronda area. Cortes, Gaucin, Ronda Stunning campsite for sale in Andalucia Ronda area. The campsite is a well established and successful business opportunity with many returning and loyal clients. The Campsite is a very unique one, resting on the edge of the River Guadiaro you can rent out kayaks and […]
- Bed20+
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Featured
Ronda Country Hotel: A Tranquil Oasis with 16 Bedrooms
Ronda, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€1,895,000
Ronda Country Hotel: A Tranquil Oasis with 16 Bedrooms Hotels for sale Andalucia: Ref MBT14231 Presenting an exceptional investment opportunity, the Ronda Country Hotel stands as a testament to elegant hospitality. Formerly an olive mill, this meticulously converted establishment boasts 16 finely appointed bedrooms and an equivalent number of modern bathrooms, ensuring utmost comfort and […]
- Bed16
- Baths16
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Featured
COUNTRY HOUSE FOR SALE IN CASARES PERFECT FOR HORSES
Casares, Gaucin, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Costa del Sol, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€1,800,000
COUNTRY HOUSE FOR SALE IN CASARES PERFECT FOR HORSES Country property for sale Casares Andalucia Ref: MBF59 The access to the house is through a door that leads to a beautiful Andalusian-style patio, where you also access the guest house. On the main floor, we find the entrance hall, a toilet, a room that is […]
- Bed4
- Baths3
- m²400
- Lot Size35000 m²
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Featured
Lakeside Hotel for sale Spain, Galicia.
Lugo, Nothern Spain
€1,750,000
Lakeside Hotel for sale Spain, Galicia. hotels for sale spain ref: NG1 A unique exquisite lake hotel for sale in Spain located in the Province of Lugo, Galicia. This large and unique Hotel is set on a 7300 m2 plot of land with gardens areas and set on the edge of a reservoir with […]
- Bed22
- Baths24
- m²2373
- Lot Size7400 m²
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rural cortijo style Hotel for sale casarbonela, Malaga, andalucia €1,750,000
Malaga, Marbella, Costa del Sol, Inland Malaga
€1,750,000
rural cortijo style Hotel for sale casarbonela, Malaga, andalucia ref:MB2899 Stunning rural cortijo hotel for sale 42 km from Malaga, marbella. The property was built in 1999 and is 600 m2 built with another 400 m2 of porches and outside built areas. The plot is 10.000 m2 but it is possible to purchase separately two more […]
- Bed12
- Baths12
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costa de la luz tarifa property: Tarifa Finca With Panoramic Sea Views 1,595,000 €
Costa De La Luz, Tarifa, Costa de la Luz
€1,595,000
costa de la luz tarifa property: Tarifa Finca With Panoramic Sea Views costa de la luz tarifa property: ref TV106 Rustic style house situated on a large plot with magnificent elevated sea views and Punta Paloma in the distance. The house which is located on the site of an old mill and originally constructed […]
- Bed10
- Baths7
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Featured
Hotel for sale Costa de la luz: 17 bedroom hotel for sale near beach in Caños de meca
Caños de Meca, Costa De La Luz, Vejer de la Frontera, Cadiz, Costa de la Luz
€1,500,000
Hotel for sale Costa de la luz: 17 bedroom hotel for sale near beach in Caños de meca. Hotel for sale Costa de la luz: ref: TF2 Modern style beach hotel 10 minutes walk to the beaches of caños de meca. This hotel is an excellent deal, the building itself is quite new with all […]
- Bed17
- Baths17
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Large rural rural tourism hotel between malaga and granada andalucia €1,500,000
Loja, Inland Andalucia
€1,500,000
Large rural rural tourism hotel between malaga and granada andalucia REF: MB1082 27 bedrooms 18 bathrooms, 4 guest bathrooms. 9 houses and 6 apartments, swimmming pool, activity rooms, 1500 m2 built 20.000 m2 plot. one hour from malaga What an opportunity. This beautiful complex of 9 houses and 6 apartments is set in fabulous scenery […]
- Bed27
- Baths18
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Featured
Iconic andalucian Country Hotel for sale Ronda, Andalucia
Arriate, Ronda, Ronda Area & Surrounding, Inland Andalucia, Inland Malaga, Ronda Area Surrounding Towns
€1,450,000
Iconic andalucian Country Hotel for sale Ronda, Andalucia Hotel for sale Ronda, Spain. Ref. MB51020 Just 10 minutes drive from Ronda, this iconic Hotel is now for sale and an excellent opportunity to acquire a successful, well-established business in Andalucia’s most famous and picturesque Town Of Ronda. The property, which was once a working mill, […]
- Bed15
- Baths15
- m²1200
- Lot Size5000 m²