The pretty village of Vilaflor, located in the south of the island of Tenerife and close to the Teide National Park, is a haven of tranquility surrounded by rural landscapes and pine forests. Its streets and houses speak of the history of the midlands of this area of Tenerife, away from the nearby bustling tourist centers of the south. Its great natural and cultural heritage is well worth a visit on any trip to the island of Tenerife.
Nestled in the heart of the Corona Forestal Natural Park, Vilaflor still preserves the aroma of a rural town in Tenerife. Proof of this are its vineyards, from which a famous wine is obtained that the visitor should not miss tasting. It preserves a rich historical heritage, such as the Casa del Marqués or an old water mill. And it has a natural heritage of great beauty that can be accessed through several trails.
Vilaflor: the highest village in Spain
Vilaflor is considered the highest village in Spain and one of the most beautiful in the Canary Islands. In addition, it is located within the Natural Park of Corona Forestal, which is why it stands out for its rural landscapes and pine forests. Like many rural areas of Tenerife, in the past it was an important region of shepherding and transhumance and has a great wine tradition.
Vilaflor can be reached via the TF-1 through the south of the island and continue on secondary roads following the signs until you reach the town. Also from the north, using the TF-21 and crossing the Teide National Park.
It is a quiet area, away from the hustle and bustle of tourist areas. Its streets and squares preserve many elements of the traditional architecture of the XVII and XVIII centuries. From its beautiful main square you can see the Church of San Pedro Apostle. Its construction dates back to 1530, as well as the well-known Casa Inglesa and the Casa de los Soler or Casa del Marqués. We recommend that you enjoy a pleasant sightseeing tour of the area, appreciating its monuments and architecture.
On the other hand, Vilaflor is an area suitable for hiking trails. One of them is Los Escurriales, through which you can appreciate an incredible lunar landscape. It also has a great natural heritage. We can highlight the famous Pino Gordo or, in front of it, the Pino de las Dos Pernadas. Both are considered the tallest native trees in Spain.
Vilaflor, its very particular name
Its name comes from its municipal capital. The area was originally known as Chasna, a term of Guanche origin that, according to some authors, means "tier" or"step".
Its modern name appears from the second half of the 16th century with the variants Villaflor and Vilaflor. The origin of this name is revealed by Sabino Berthelot. He transmitted in his work a legend according to which a Castilian conqueror exclaimed "Vi la flor de Chasna!" when he fell in love with a young Guanche girl of the area during the conquest.
In 2014 the Cabildo Insular approved the change of name of the municipality. This was done by Vilaflor de Chasna, thus recovering its original name.
Protected areas in Vilaflor
Part of the areas included in the Canary Islands Network of Protected Natural Spaces are located in the municipality. The Teide National Park, the Corona Forestal Natural Park, the Ifonche Protected Landscape and the Montaña Colorada Natural Monument.
These areas are also included in the Natura 2000 Network as Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas for Birds. Vilaflor also has the Public Utility Mountains called Vica and Lajas and Lomo Gordo and Agua Agria. Within these protected areas are located natural places of interest such as the spring of Fuente Alta. This is located at 1,400 meters above sea level.
The Canary Islands is a land with a thousand things to see, explore and get to know. If you are interested in knowing more interesting facts about the Canary Islands, here is the link to the section Explore the Canary Islands section of Marca Canaria.
Paula Vera
Photos: holaislascanarias.com, Town Hall of Vilaflor
