Valleseco

Overview

The central Gran Canarian municipality of Valleseco is found at an altitude of 1,000m above sea level. The height of the region means that it is quite often literally up in the clouds, with clear skies being rare in this area. The translation of the name Valleseco means 'dry valley' in English, and ironically it is the wettest region of the entire island. The more frequent rain and clouds do not play much of a part on the overall climate, temperatures in the mid 30C range are common in the summer.

What Valleseco may lack in tourist amenities and beaches it makes up for with the Canarian charm. Undisturbed by high-rise hotels and masses of tourists, the area has breathtaking landscapes and a diverse range of wildlife. 

History

Valleseco was officially made an individual municipality in 1842, making it the youngest of all regions in Gran Canaria. Prior to this, land in the area was purchased to channel water to the profitable sugar plantations in the coastal regions. The foreign landowners of the 16th century had little interest in developing Valleseco, but those who did needed to hire someone to tend to the crops. This led to the rise of 'medianeros' who would live in the area, work the land, and receive half of the produce as payment. It is from the families of these farmers that Valleseco began to take shape.

By the time Valleseco had achieved municipality status, life was becoming increasingly difficult for the inhabitants. Several poor harvest seasons led to hunger and hardship, resulting in many leaving the island for Cuba and Venezuela. The population fell dramatically and for decades Valleseco was home to very few people. However, advances in agricultural techniques and the influx of visitors to the island as a whole has helped the area to maintain a small but significant community.

Culture

Everyday life in Valleseco is typically Canarian. Little has been disturbed by the tourists who come mainly to experience a truer sense of what life in Gran Canaria is like. With Valleseco being a fairly under-populated region, it could be mistaken for not possessing much of a unique cultural heritage. However, in recent years a strong emphasis has been put on reviving some of the area’s traditions. In 1992 the 'Abenechara' folklore group were formed with the aim to spread traditional Gran Canarian dance and music to the other islands. Having won several competitions and appearing on various television programmes, the Valleseco based group have helped keep the uniquely entertaining heritage alive.

Economy

Today the economy of Valleseco is not as dependant on good farming seasons. The reduction in family-run farms has been due to people finding more stability and money in different sectors. The service industry has grown substantially in recent years. Restaurants and hotels have appeared across the municipality, creating hundreds of more secure jobs. Manufacturing and construction are also a lifeline for the area as the central location proves to be a good headquarters for many businesses. The tourism sector is not as lucrative as other parts of the island but it is an important part of Valleseco's economic activities.

How to get there:

Several buses leave Las Palmas and arrive within the Valleseco municipality. The Global Bus company run the 222, 232 and 220 services between the two locations. The routes vary slightly and they depart infrequently but the journeys do take less than an hour. The 220 bus service also goes to nearby Teror, meaning a short trip there is possible as well.

If travelling by car the GC-21 will lead you to both Valleseco's north and south entrances.

 

Sights

Iglesia de San Vicente Ferrer

The beautifully designed church sits in the plaza bearing the same name. The whitewashed exterior is found within too, making a walk inside the Iglesia de San Vicente Ferrer feel as though you have stepped into one of Valleseco's many clouds. Adorning the church are numerous artefacts and sculptures, with the most cherished being an 18th Century organ that was a gift from the nearby Iglesia del Pino in Teror.

Área Recreativa de La Laguna

The recreation park is a perfect location for a peaceful walk. The natural beauty of the area has been carefully conserved, with forests having been planted with the specific intent to create a relaxing atmosphere. Lagoons can be found throughout, with birds of all sizes coming year round. It is also possible to enjoy a meal here too, with barbecuing facilities and running water being freely available. If you wish to bring a large group to Área Recreativa de La Laguna it is advisable you call 928 61 80 22 as a small fee of 1.50€ per person is required.

 

Molino de Gofio

Found in the centre of the Valleseco town fields, the large mill has supplied Valleseco with food for over 80 years and is now open for the public to visit. Gofio is a traditional Canary Island food made from the flour of roasted grains and is very popular with the locals.

Watch the locals operating huge rotating stones in an ancient process that has been passed down from generation to generation. There is even the opportunity to purchase some of the freshly made produce.

Barranco de la Virgen 

There are several different valleys in the area, but Barranco de la Virgen is perhaps the most tranquil. It is famed for being one of the most silent places in all of Valleseco, and any sounds you do hear will only be that of nature. Much of what you will see in the valley will be protected by law. Large manor houses and disused mills can also be found nestled away in the valley, alongside steep cliffs lined with unique flora and fauna.

Tourist Information Office

Along with acting as the main place to find out about current events in the region, the tourism office also doubles up as a workshop and exhibition centre. Visitors can learn how traditional crafts such as musical instruments, furniture and clothing are made. Various authentically Canarian pieces are on display throughout the year, showing the handiwork of the people of Valleseco.

Where: Calle León y Castillo, 27 Valleseco
Price: Free
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 8 am - 3 pm

 

Beaches

As Valleseco is not a coastal region it does not have any beaches of its own.

 

Festivals

The largest fiesta in Valleseco is the fiestas de San Vicente Ferrer. It is held in mid-May to early-July, usually fifty days after Easter. The event commemorates the day San Vicente Ferrer was brought from Teror to Valleseco. With music, dramatic plays, livestock fairs, historical exhibitions, and fireworks it is a highlight on the areas calendar.

San Vicente Ferrer - mid-May to early-July, fifty days after Easter
La Encarnación – First Sunday of October
Valsendero - June 29th
Zumacal - July 13th
Madrelagua - August 3rd

 

 

Nightlife

The nightlife in Valleseco is very quiet. This is mainly due to the lack of open streets and large strips of shops. A few small bars where the locals enjoy themselves can be found dotted around, but for a lively night out a visit to Las Palmas only 27km away would be advised.

 

 

Shopping

Much like many of the midland municipalities in Gran Canaria there is little opportunity to shop in Valleseco compared to places like Las Palmas. What it does have is a variety of locally made foods and crafts that are impossible to find in the more cosmopolitan shopping districts. Also, due to the island's relatively small size, a day trip to the bigger towns will provide you with any other shopping needs.