Vilaflor Tenerife South

Great views, Hikes, Must see towns, South Tenerife

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About Vilaflor

Vilaflor is a picturesque village situated at an altitude of over 1,400 meters (4,600 feet), it is one of the highest villages in Spain and boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The village is known for its traditional Canarian architecture, with whitewashed houses and narrow streets that wind through the hillsides. Its main square, Plaza de San Pedro, is home to the Church of San Pedro, which was built in the 18th century and features a striking bell tower.

One of the most notable attractions in Vilaflor is the Parque Nacional del Teide, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Canary Islands. The park is home to the Teide volcano, the highest peak in Spain, as well as a range of unique flora and fauna that are adapted to the harsh volcanic landscape.

In addition to its natural attractions, Vilaflor is also known for its delicious local cuisine, including dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), mojo sauce, and traditional Canarian stews. The village is also home to several wineries that produce some of the island’s finest wines.

Some things to do around Vilaflor

  1. Hiking: The surrounding mountains and forests offer plenty of hiking opportunities, with a range of trails suitable for all levels of ability. Popular hiking routes include the Paisaje Lunar trail, El Contador trail, Pino Gordo trail, Sendero del Rey trail, and Roques de Garcia trail.
  2. Wine tasting: Vilaflor is home to several wineries that produce some of the island’s finest wines. You can take a wine tour and taste some of the local wines while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
  3. Visit the Church of San Pedro: The 18th-century church is located in the village’s main square and features a striking bell tower.
  4. Try local cuisine: Vilaflor is known for its delicious local cuisine, including papas arrugadas, mojo sauce, and traditional Canarian stews. There are several restaurants in the village where you can try these dishes.
  5. Stargazing: The clear skies above Vilaflor make it an ideal location for stargazing. There are several observatories in the area where you can learn about the stars and planets.

 

The History of Wine in Vilaflor

Vilaflor has a long and rich wine history, dating back to the 16th century when the Spanish conquistadors first introduced wine production to the Canary Islands. The village is located in the southern part of Tenerife, which is known for its volcanic soil and unique microclimate, making it an ideal location for wine production.

The first vineyards in Vilaflor were planted in the mid-16th century, and by the 17th century, wine production had become an important industry in the area. In the 19th century, phylloxera, a vineyard pest that devastated many European vineyards, hit the Canary Islands, causing a decline in wine production. However, by the 20th century, wine production had rebounded and continued to grow in popularity.

Today, Vilaflor is home to several wineries that produce some of the island’s finest wines. The most common grape variety grown in the area is Listán Negro, a red grape that is well-suited to the volcanic soil and warm climate. Other grape varieties grown in the area include Listán Blanco, Negramoll, and Malvasia.

One of the most famous wineries in Vilaflor is Bodegas Reverón, which has been producing wine since 1945. The winery is located in the heart of the village and offers tours and tastings for visitors. Other notable wineries in the area include Bodegas Insulares Tenerife, Bodegas Monje, and Bodegas Viñátigo.