Discover the town of Arona, the beautiful historic town that hosts the Coliving.
Nestled just 15 minutes from Los Cristianos in the foothills of south Tenerife, Arona is a town full of Canarian history and natural beauty.
It is now home to Zen Den Coliving.
Coliving in Arona, Why would you stay?
With its rich blend of traditional culture and stunning architecture, Arona offers visitors a unique and authentic experience while being a stone’s throw away from the busiest part of the island. It is a perfect place for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads to have a tranquil place to stay and work. familiarising themselves with the local culture. Whilst still being close enough to everything going on in the South of Tenerife’s bustling Remote Working Community.
A Historic Gem in the South
Arona boasts a rich history dating back to the Guanche era, the island’s indigenous people. The town is home to several historically significant landmarks, such as the Church of San Antonio Abad. It was built in the 18th century. This iconic church, with its whitewashed walls and traditional Canarian bell tower, is a must-see for history lovers.
The historic centre of Arona has been carefully preserved. its narrow streets lined with traditional Canarian houses. These streets lead to charming plazas, where you can enjoy local cafes and immerse yourself in the relaxed pace of life. Arona’s deep-rooted heritage creates an atmosphere of timeless charm, making it a great base for our Coliving project.
The Coliving itself, with its traditional name “Casona de Arona” dates back over 120 years and forms part of the nucleus of the town. All this history is just outside our door at Zen Den Coliving.
At the top of the town is the Casa La Bodega. An information centre for the Historical and Cultural Heritage of Arona that still retains its architectural charm and holds several small music concerts last year.
Coastal Links: Los Cristianos, Playa Las Américas and Costa Adeje
One of Arona’s key advantages is its proximity to three of Tenerife’s most popular coastal tourist towns. Los Cristianos, Playa Las Américas and Costa Adeje.
They are probably the best-known areas of the island but for the past few years have been the most popular areas for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads on the island. This is where Zen Den started and we have worked hard to build our Nomads Den Community. Our highly rated, dedicated Coworking Space, Zen Den is located here too.
As part of your stay at the Coliving, you can use this space. Meaning you can easily head down to the beach to work from the Coliving. Going to the beach on your lunch break or attending some of the events hosted at the Coworking or in the coastal areas.
Zen Den Coworking is just a 17-minute drive from the Coliving in Arona. So if you have hired a car or want to use our rideshares Whatsapp group to find a lift. You can be on the coast in the Coworking in no time at all.
From right outside the Coliving, you can take the bus to Los Cristianos in less than 30 minutes on the 480 bus route this is the fastest bus.
There is also the 482 bus route which is slightly slower and goes via the town of La Camella. It has the closest gym and large supermarket and is roughly less than 15 minutes each way.
Remember to download the local bus app on your phone Titsa for local times and routes.
Gateway to Teide and Bodegas
Our Coliving in Arona is also ideally positioned for those seeking to explore Tenerife’s natural wonders. From the town, you can easily access Mount Teide.
Spain’s highest peak and one of the most iconic landmarks of the Canary Islands. Whether you choose to take the cable car or enjoy one of the many hiking routes, the views from Teide are breathtaking. Local bus services from Arona also give you easy access to the volcano. We are on the direct road up to Teide. making it easy to visit this UNESCO World Heritage site.
From directly behind the Coliving at the Gas Station, you can take the most scenic public transport on the island. The 342 bus route. This will wind its way up the mountain and get you to the Volcano in no time
For wine lovers, the local bodegas (wineries) north of Arona offer a chance to explore Tenerife’s rich wine heritage. You can enjoy wine tastings and tours that showcase the unique volcanic soil flavours that make Canary Island wines so special.
The same 342 bus route allows you to get on and off on your way to Teide. Having a little wine and cheese at every stop.
Our Favourite Bodegas include
Finca Ecológica Alma de Trevejos
These are all on the way to Teide and the beautiful town of Vilaflor, which is also worth a stop for a coffee and a bocadillo.
En route, you can also stop at our favourite cultural gift store Mar de Nubes · Canary Concept Store & Cafe where you can have a traditional Coffee called a Barraquito and pick up some locally made items and souvenirs.
Dining and Nightlife: Less is More!
Arona might be the municipal capital of Los Cristianos. But the local residents haven’t let it become saturated with tourist restaurants or fast food!
It has a select number of place to eat and drink, but they are all really good. Just next door to Zen Den Coliving is a little local bar called Bar atlético Arona serving beers, Tapas and sandwiches. This is open from 7 am to 10 pm Tuesday to Sunday, so if you need to have a sandwich at lunch, or after-work beers, this is a close and amazing choice.
A short two-minute walk will take you to a bakery that locals claim is the best on the island, especially if you have a sweet tooth! Pastelería Aroma has cakes to die for and you can also head here for a takeaway coffee and cake on your mid morning break!
Restaurante Roque del Conde is a six-minute walk from the Coliving and the best place close by to get a sit-down meal with traditional Canarian dishes being served and a fantastic selection of local wines.
A little further away but still closeby.
For those willing to venture a little further, Oliver’s Out of Town is a hidden gem about a 20-minute walk from Arona. It is often fully booked, making reservations essential. The tranquil setting and innovative dishes make it well worth the visit. This is British owned but don’t expect Fish and Chips or an English breakfast here. This is fine contemporary dining with a daily catch-of-the-day seafood dish and a menu for Vegetarians and Vegans that changes daily. See their menu here.
Our founder Roy’s personal favourite. So much so, its his favourite restaurant on the entire island is Restaurante El Cobijo. also a 20-minute walk (or a quick 3-minute drive) from the Coliving. This restaurant offers the best views of the south coast of Tenerife. With cute private casitas where you can enjoy your meal in a secluded and picturesque setting. Amazing!
Want to stay at the Coliving and order a pizza? Don’t worry, both Uber Eats and Glovo have plenty of options to order a takeaway from the nearby town of Valle San Lorenzo. Also just an eight-minute drive.
Download UBER EATS here and get €10 off your first €20 order.
Outdoor Adventures: Arona is a hiker’s paradise.
You wont need a car or a lift to enjoy hiking at Zen Den Coliving There are several trails that start right from the Coliving itself. One of the most popular routes is the Roque del Conde, a hike that begins just a five-minute walk from the town centre. This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with the towering Roque del Conde as the highlight.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the natural beauty of Arona and its surroundings will leave a lasting impression.
Here are some of the other hikes that start from Arona.
Las Casas – Vento – Easy – 4.3km
Local Events: A Town That Knows How to Celebrate
Arona’s lively spirit comes to life in its local events and traditional festivals. Throughout the year, the town hosts various cultural celebrations, including street parties, music festivals, and religious processions that showcase Canarian culture. Some key events include:
Fiestas Patronales: Held in honor of San Antonio Abad, the town’s patron saint. The festival features religious processions, traditional music, and folk dances.
Romaría: A traditional Canarian pilgrimage that involves colorful parades, live music, and local food stalls, celebrating Arona’s agricultural heritage.
Carnival of Arona: This vibrant event takes over the streets with colorful costumes, floats, and dancing. It’s one of the most anticipated events in the southern region of Tenerife.
Arona Summer Music Festival: Held during the summer months, this festival draws international artists and DJs, transforming the town into a hub of music and entertainment.
Arona Jazz Festival: A celebration of jazz music with performances in open-air venues around the town.
Noche de San Juan: A magical midsummer celebration where locals and visitors gather on the beaches to light bonfires and celebrate the longest day of the year.
At Zen Den Coliving will be working with the town council to include Digital Nomads and Remote Workers in these local events and have them included as part of our events schedule. So get ready to get involved!
As you can see, Arona might not be well known or huge, but it is beautiful, well connected and has plenty of things to see and do outside the Coliving!
So why not come and join us at Zen Den Coliving, where we want to help bridge the gaps between the Remote Working and the Digital Nomad Community, and the local people.
Building a sustainable community and future for Tenerife together!
REMEMBER – A little Spanish goes a long way and Arona is a local town, please be respectful and try to speak a little Spanish at these venues, even if it’s just “¡Hola! Por favor and gracias” it really will go a long way to show we are respecting the town and local people.