Gran Canaria Municipality of Valleseco : A Traveler's Guide
Exploring Valleseco: The Verdant Heart of Gran Canaria
Valleseco is a hidden gem in the heart of Gran Canaria, offering a serene escape into lush greenery, rich history, and traditional Canarian culture. Whether you're hiking through the ancient laurel forests, exploring picturesque ravines, or savoring the unique local cider, Valleseco promises an unforgettable experience. The municipality's natural beauty, combined with its cultural and historical landmarks, makes it an essential destination for any traveler seeking to discover the true essence of Gran Canaria. From its verdant landscapes to its traditional architecture and vibrant community, Valleseco invites you to explore and enjoy all it has to offer.
General Overview
Geographic Location: Valleseco is located in the northern interior of Gran Canaria, just 7 kilometers from the neighboring town of Villa de Teror. This picturesque municipality, situated in a mountainous area, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural history.
Population and Size: Covering a land surface area of just 22 square kilometers, Valleseco is one of the smallest municipalities on the island. Its population is around 4,000 residents, who enjoy the tranquility and lush environment of this verdant region.
Historical Significance: Despite its name, which literally means "Dry Valley," Valleseco is a humid area. Historically, it was part of a vast laurel tree forest that once covered Gran Canaria's interior. This forest, known as "Laurisilva," was crucial to the local ecosystem and the island's early inhabitants. Laurel forests are rare and ancient, making Valleseco an area of significant ecological and historical importance.
Valleseco Attractions and Landmarks
Natural Beauty and Hiking Trails:
Valleseco is renowned for its overflowing vegetation, with 80% of its territory holding Protected Natural Area status. The municipality is crisscrossed by numerous hiking paths and footpaths, inviting visitors to explore its lush landscapes and enjoy the remnants of its ancient laurel forests.
Barranco de Madrelagua and Barranco de La Virgen:
These two main ravines are characterized by their stunning greenery and picturesque Canarian houses. Barranco de La Virgen, in particular, is a highlight for its botanical value and scenic beauty.
La Laguna Recreational Area:
This natural enclave within the Rural Park offers an extensive display of Canarian flora. Equipped with barbecues, fresh running water, and tables shaded by chestnut trees, it is an ideal spot for a family day out in nature. Permits for barbecues can be obtained from the Town Hall of Valleseco.
Pico de Osorio (968m):
A wonderful natural viewpoint, Pico de Osorio provides panoramic views that stretch to neighboring villages and even the capital city on clear days.
- Traditional Architecture and Water Features:
Valleseco is dotted with stunning examples of traditional Canarian architecture that blend seamlessly into the rural surroundings.
- Public Wash Basins: Characteristic tile-covered public wash basins, such as those at Balcón de Zamora and Tierras Blancas, are still in use today. These basins are part of the "Water Route," one of the walks organized annually by the Town Hall of Valleseco.
- Water Irrigation Channels: Numerous irrigation channels, springs, fountains, and public wash basins constructed in the early 19th century highlight the importance of water to the area's agriculture and daily life.
Valleseco Cultural Highlights:
Valleseco's cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its traditional practices, local products, and architectural landmarks.
- San Vicente Ferrer Church: Located in the town center, this simple yet remarkable building features an eclectic architectural style designed by Laureano Arroyo Velasco. Inside, visitors will find a valuable and historic 18th-century organ of German origin.
- Valleseco Ethnographic Museum and Visitor Centre : This museum contains exhibits on local traditions and products like "gofio," a Canarian staple. It also houses the Tourist Information Office, providing valuable insights and information for visitors.
Unique Local Products:
Valleseco is also known for its unique pippin apple cider. Made with locally grown apples, this cider has a distinctive sweet and sour taste and a higher alcohol content compared to ciders from other regions like Ireland, Asturias, and Germany. The high sugar content in the apples, attributed to the abundant sunshine in the Canary Islands, results in a more potent fermentation process.
Events and Festivals:
Throughout the year, Valleseco hosts various events and festivals that celebrate its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The annual Water Route walk, organized by the Town Hall, allows participants to explore every corner of Valleseco and learn about its historical water systems.
Practical Information:
How to Get There: Valleseco is easily accessible by bus from different parts of Gran Canaria. Buses 30 and 1 from Maspalomas to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, as well as Service 216 to Teror or Service 220, offer convenient travel options to this charming municipality.