Exploring Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife: The Drago Tree and Beyond

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Icod de los Vinos, a charming municipality located in the northwestern part of Tenerife, one of Spain’s Canary Islands.

The town is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with its sea and volcanic mountains providing a picturesque backdrop to the vineyards and banana plantations that dot the landscape.

However, what sets Icod de los Vinos apart is its famous Drago Tree, believed to be the oldest of its kind on the island.

Despite its relatively small size, Icod de los Vinos offers visitors a wealth of things to see and do. Of course, no trip to the town would be complete without a visit to the Drago Tree, which is said to be over 800 years old.

The tree is an important symbol of the town and has been the subject of many legends and stories over the centuries.

However, there is much more to Icod de los Vinos than just this famous tree, and visitors will find plenty of other attractions to explore, from historic buildings and museums to beautiful parks and gardens.

Attractions Tenerife

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Geography and Location of the Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife

The town is situated in a valley that is surrounded by the sea and volcanic mountains, providing a stunning natural setting for visitors to enjoy.

The village is located in the northern part of Tenerife, which is known for its lush greenery and stunning cliffs that drop off into the Atlantic Ocean. The elevation of Icod de los Vinos varies depending on where you are in the town, but it is generally around 235 meters above sea level.

One of the most notable features of Icod de los Vinos is the cliffs that line the district’s coast. These cliffs provide a stunning backdrop for visitors to the town, and they are a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.

The Teide-Pico Viejo cattle tracks are also located in the surrounding area, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.

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Tenerife’s Icod de los Vinos History and Culture

Pre-Spanish Era

Icod de los Vinos has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the pre-Spanish era. The town was originally inhabited by the Guanches, who were the indigenous people of the Canary Islands.

The Guanches were skilled farmers and fishermen, and they developed a unique culture that was based on their close relationship with the land and sea.

Spanish Conquest and Settlement

In the 16th century, the Spanish conquered the Canary Islands, and Icod de los Vinos became an important settlement for the Spanish. The town was a hub of activity, and it quickly became known for its wine production.

The Spanish also built many important buildings and structures in the town, including the Church of San Marcos and the Casa de los Cáceres.

Guanche Culture and Heritage

Despite the Spanish conquest, the Guanche culture and heritage still play an important role in the town’s history and culture. Many of the town’s residents are proud of their Guanche heritage, and they celebrate it through festivals, music, and art.

Visitors to Icod de los Vinos can learn more about the Guanche culture by visiting the Museo Guanche, which is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the Guanche heritage.

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Landmarks and Attractions in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife

As I explore Icod de los Vinos, I am amazed by the variety of landmarks and attractions that this beautiful town has to offer. From the iconic Drago Milenario to the stunning volcanic tube of Cueva del Viento, there is something for everyone here.

Parque del Drago

One of the most popular attractions in Icod de los Vinos is the Parque del Drago, a botanical garden that is home to the legendary Dragon Tree.

This ancient tree is over 800 years old and is a national monument and one of the greatest symbols of the Canary Islands. The park is a peaceful oasis with different types of endemic plants and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and culture of the town.

Cueva del Viento

Another must-see attraction is the Cueva del Viento, a volcanic tube that was formed by lava flows over 27,000 years ago. This fascinating natural wonder is one of the longest volcanic tubes in the world and is a unique experience for visitors.

With guided tours available, visitors can explore the cave and learn about the geological history of the area.

Church of San Marcos

The Church of San Marcos is a beautiful example of Canarian Baroque architecture and is located in the heart of the town. This stunning church was built in the 18th century and is dedicated to Saint Mark, the patron saint of Icod de los Vinos.

With intricate carvings and ornate decorations, the church is a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres

The Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres is a picturesque square that is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings. This charming square is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

The square is named after a local politician who played a key role in the development of the town.

Plaza de la Pila

Another lovely square in the town is the Plaza de la Pila, which is home to a beautiful fountain that dates back to the 16th century. This square is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the town.

With plenty of cafes and shops nearby, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

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Icod de los Vinos Economy and Agriculture

Icod de los Vinos has a thriving economy that is based primarily on agriculture. The area is known for its banana plantations and vineyards, which are the main sources of income for local farmers.

Vineyards and Wine Production

Vineyards are another important part of the local economy. The area has a long history of wine production, dating back to the 16th century.

Today, there are over 1,000 hectares of vineyards in the area, which produce a range of different wines.

The most famous wine produced in Icod de los Vinos is the Malvasia, which is made from a local grape variety. This sweet wine has been produced in the area for centuries and is known for its unique taste.

Canarian Cuisine

The local cuisine in Icod de los Vinos is heavily influenced by the area’s agricultural heritage. Many dishes feature locally grown ingredients, such as bananas and wine.

One of the most popular dishes in the area is the papas arrugadas, which are small potatoes boiled in salt water and served with a spicy sauce. Another popular dish is the Conejo en salmorejo, which is rabbit cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

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Nearby Towns and Cities

As I explore Icod de los Vinos, I find that there are many charming towns and cities nearby that are worth a visit. Here are a few of my favourites:

Garachico

Garachico is a small town located just 10 kilometres northwest of Icod de los Vinos. It is known for its natural swimming pools, which were formed by volcanic eruptions.

The town also has a beautiful historic centre with many interesting buildings, including the Church of Santa Ana and the Convent of San Francisco.

Garachico is also a great place to try some delicious local cuisine, such as fresh fish and papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes).

La Orotava

La Orotava is a picturesque town located about 20 kilometres northeast of Icod de los Vinos. It is known for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture.

One of the highlights of the town is the Casa de los Balcones, a 17th-century mansion with a beautiful balcony. The town also has several lovely parks and gardens, including the Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja and the Jardín Victoria.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital city of the island of Tenerife and is located about 45 kilometres east of Icod de los Vinos. It is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture.

Some of the highlights of the city include the Auditorio de Tenerife, a modernist concert hall designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, and the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre, a museum dedicated to the natural history of the Canary Islands.

The city also has many beautiful parks and plazas, such as the Parque García Sanabria and the Plaza de España.

I find that exploring these nearby towns and cities adds another dimension to my experience in Icod de los Vinos. Each place has its unique charm and offers a different perspective on the island of Tenerife.

Attractions Tenerife

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