Have you ever wondered which is the highest village in the Canary Islands? The islands boast some of the most beautiful villages in Spain, such as Tejeda in Gran Canaria, Teguise in Lanzarote, and Betancuria in Fuerteventura, all located in the province of Las Palmas. However, the highest village in the archipelago is in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, specifically on the island of Tenerife. Curious to know which one it is?
Vilaflor de Chasna: The Highest Village in the Canary Islands
Vilaflor de Chasna is a charming rural village situated in the midlands of southern Tenerife. Covering an area of 56.26 km² and located at 1,500 metres above sea level, it is one of the highest municipalities in Spain. It borders La Orotava, Arona, Granadilla de Abona, San Miguel, and Adeje.
This picturesque village is renowned for its prime geographical location, surrounded by lush pine forests and in close proximity to Mount Teide. It is characterized by small houses, cobbled streets, and a significant agricultural presence, including potato, vine, and almond tree cultivation, benefiting from the fertile soil and high-quality water.
One of Vilaflor de Chasna’s historical landmarks is the English House, built in the 19th century next to the cypress trees in the square of the church of San Pedro Apóstol. It was once home to British residents Mary Edwards and Reverend Thomas Gifford Nash and is currently used as a parish house.
Vilaflor de Chasna is also home to Europe’s highest vineyard, situated at an altitude of 1,600 metres. The grapes grown here, at elevations between 1,100 and 1,500 metres, thrive in the unique black soil, enhancing their quality and competitiveness in the market. This has led to a significant increase in vine cultivation in the area in recent years.
Moreover, Vilaflor de Chasna is notable for being the birthplace of the first Canarian saint, Santo Hermano Pedro, the evangeliser of Guatemala, born in 1626.
Other High-Altitude Villages in Spain
Spain is home to several other high-altitude villages, including:
- Pradollano (Granada, Andalusia): 2078 metres.
- Valdelinares (Teruel, Aragon): 1695 metres.
- La Herguijuela (Ávila, Castilla y León): 1602 metres.
- Griegos (Teruel, Aragon): 1601 metres.
- Gúdar (Teruel, Aragón): 1581 metres.
- Bronchales (Teruel, Aragón): 1569 metres.
- Cerler (Huesca, Aragón): 1540 metres.
- Meranges (Gerona, Catalonia): 1539 metres.
- Hoyos de Miguel Muñoz (Ávila, Castilla y León): 1534 metres.
- Navarredonda de Gredos (Ávila, Castilla y León): 1523 metres.
How to Get to Vilaflor de Chasna
To reach Vilaflor de Chasna from San Cristóbal de La Laguna or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, take the Tenerife South Motorway (TF-1) and exit at 62 towards the TF-65 road. Alternatively, you can travel by bus via lines 482, 419, and 342.
Vilaflor de Chasna is a hidden gem in the Canary Islands, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and agricultural excellence. Whether you’re exploring its scenic landscapes or tasting its high-altitude wines, this village promises an unforgettable experience.
