Nestled in the southern midlands of Tenerife, Vilaflor de Chasna stands out as the highest village in the Canary Islands and one of the highest municipalities in all of Spain. Situated at an elevation of 1,500 metres above sea level, this rural village covers an area of 56.26 square kilometres and is surrounded by lush pine forests, just a short distance from Mount Teide. It shares its borders with La Orotava, Arona, Granadilla de Abona, San Miguel, and Adeje.
Unique Characteristics of Vilaflor de Chasna
Vilaflor de Chasna is known for its picturesque setting, with small traditional houses, cobblestone streets, and vibrant agricultural practices. The village’s fertile land, enriched with quality water, supports the cultivation of potatoes, almonds, and especially vineyards. Remarkably, it is home to the highest vineyard in Europe, situated at 1,600 metres above sea level. The altitude and unique black volcanic soils of the region give the local wines a distinctive quality, which has made them increasingly competitive in the market in recent years.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Vilaflor de Chasna also holds significant cultural and historical importance. In 1626, it became the birthplace of Santo Hermano Pedro, the first saint of the Canary Islands, who later became a prominent evangeliser in Guatemala. The village also features historical buildings such as the “English House,” built in the 19th century beside the cypress trees near the church of San Pedro Apóstol. This house was originally inhabited by the British Mary Edwards and Reverend Thomas Gifford Nash and is now used as a parish house.
Getting to Vilaflor de Chasna
Visitors from San Cristóbal de La Laguna or Santa Cruz de Tenerife can reach Vilaflor de Chasna by taking the Tenerife South Motorway (TF-1) and exiting at 62 towards the TF-65 road. Public transport is also available, with bus lines 482, 419, and 342 providing regular services to the village.
Other High-Altitude Villages in Spain
Vilaflor de Chasna is not alone in its high-altitude status; several other villages in Spain are also located at significant elevations:
- Pradollano (Granada, Andalusia): 2,078 metres.
- Valdelinares (Teruel, Aragon): 1,695 metres.
- La Herguijuela (Ávila, Castilla y León): 1,602 metres.
- Griegos (Teruel, Aragon): 1,601 metres.
- Gúdar (Teruel, Aragón): 1,581 metres.
- Bronchales (Teruel, Aragón): 1,569 metres.
- Cerler (Huesca, Aragón): 1,540 metres.
- Merangues (Gerona, Catalonia): 1,539 metres.
- Hoyos de Miguel Muñoz (Ávila, Castilla y León): 1,534 metres.
- Navarredonda de Gredos (Ávila, Castile and León): 1,523 metres.
Vilaflor de Chasna not only holds the title of the highest village in the Canary Islands but also represents a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and agricultural richness. Its vineyards, protected by a saint and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, make it a unique destination in the Canary Islands, appealing to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
