Tejeda, a Canarian hamlet is on the list of Spain's most beautiful towns and will provide you with an entirely novel experience. In this stunning terrain, enjoy a rural tourism experience.
This charming town is situated almost in the heart of Gran Canaria and sits at the foot of Roque Nublo, a volcanic outcropping where you can witness the well-known natural phenomenon of the sea of clouds. This, coupled with Roque Bentayga, forms part of the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria, a natural area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Cuevas del Rey (King's Caves), where we can observe cave paintings and niches dug in the rock as houses or storerooms, and which are evidence of aboriginal culture with religious undertones, are found in Roque Bentayga.
You can learn more about them by visiting the Bentayga Archaeological Park, which serves as an interpretive centre for the archaeological complex that includes the Cuevas del Rey, Bentayga, and the Andén de Tabacalete.
It is the surroundings that most commonly draw visitors' attention; a stroll through Tejeda's streets is also a highly recommended path.
The Church of Nuestra Seora del Socorro, a Christian chapel built in 1921 with a stunning altarpiece inside, is located adjacent to the Laurel de las Indias, a magnificent laurel tree.
Traditional architecture with white houses and buildings is a prominent characteristic of the entire area. If you want to see a spectacular view, head to the Cruz de Tejeda, near the Parador Nacional, where you can admire the impressive cloud cover if you get a chance.
How about regaining your strength with a bite to eat now that you've had a good walk? Tejeda's cuisine revolves around almonds, which are used to make delectable desserts like bienmesabe and handcrafted marzipan.
We may have mentioned desserts at the beginning, will not miss the opportunity to encourage you to try traditional dishes such as watercress and jaramagos stews, potato broths or goat or cow stews.
Almonds are not only associated with culinary but also reflected in the municipality's festivities through the Fiesta del Almendro en Flor, one of the first of pagan origin, which takes place in February and has been declared as a Regional Tourist Interest.
The patron saint festivities, dedicated to the Virgin Nuestra Seora del Socorro, take place during the second week of September and extend for about three weeks, with pilgrimages, musical and cultural events, and religious masses as part of the program.
We bring up almonds again since it is a crucial component of the economy. Not only does it play a role in the local gastronomy but also in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry.
Being in a rural environment, tourism is of great importance, especially rural tourism, as it combines perfectly with the atmosphere of the village and the surrounding natural areas.
