Agulo

Overview:

Located along the northern coast of La Gomera island, Agulo can be reached via a country road which runs through Hermigua Valley. One of the oldest villages on the island, it is often regarded as the prettiest, and bears the name “El Balcon Verde” (the green balcony). Situated on a platform above the sea, in front of an imposing red cliff face, Agulo is divided into three main parts: La Montañeta, Las Casas, and El Charco.

The village comprises of picturesque cobbled streets and quaint narrow houses surrounded by vegetable gardens. In the centre, there is a church and a few old houses resembling beautiful examples of traditional Canarian architecture. From the village, you can also see the top of Mount Teide, situated in the neighbouring island of Tenerife. In the upper part of the municipality, agriculture and farming dominate the scene, but exists harmoniously alongside rural tourism. Holiday-makers are consequently offered a unique natural environment.

History

Agulo was founded by a group of 20 settlers in 1607. The population has grown steadily ever since, and there are now 1200 inhabitants. Notably, a catastrophe took place in this small town in 1770, when heavy rainfall displaced the historic centre of El Charco. However, in the early 20th century, the beginning of banana growing raised the level of prosperity.

Sights:

Sights in Agulo are not exactly very concentrated. The village of Agulo itself navigable on foot, you can take visit the church or chill out at its atmospheric plaza. Venturing further, it is advisable that you rent a car. Following motorway TF-711 towards Vallehermoso, you will find a visitor centre, a restaurant offering Silbo Gomero (ancient whistling) demonstration, and a mirador (vantage point).

Iglesia de San Marcos (church) and Plaza de Leoncio Bento (square)

This white parish church boasts neo-gothical architecture. It was built by architects, Pintor and Ocete. In 1911, the church was torn down due to its grave state of disrepair, but was thereafter re-built. There are a few features within the church's worth noting, one of them is the figure of Christ, by the artist Pérez Donis.

The church fits perfectly on the Plaza de Leoncio Bento (square), which was named after the most prominent supporter of its construction. Surrounded by old Canarian houses with carved wooden balconies, this atmospheric plaza is worth lingering over. Every April, the annual festival in honour of San Marcos is held on the main street surrounding the plaza. During this time, Agulo is transformed into a magical place, with traditional fires being set alight and the village’s men jump over them as a test of bravery.

Juego de Bola visitor centre

If you would like to find out more about the Parque Nacional de Grarajonay (National Park), head to Juego de Bola visitor centre. This visitor centre offers a wealth of information on flora and fauna, geology, climate, and flora and fauna of the park. Comprehensive maps, hiking guides, and guided tours of the park (on Saturdays) are also available. For the guided tour, it is advisable that you phone and book in advance. A handicraft museum/ shop also forms part of this centre.

To get there, take motorway TF-711 from Agulo heading northwards to Rosas and Vallehermoso. Just before Rosas, you will see sign post pointing to the visitor centre, turn left and follow signs.

Address: Centro de Visitantes "Juego de Bolas" La Palmita, Agulo, La Gomera island.
Telephone: +34 922 800 993
Opening hours: 09:30 - 16:30

Silbo Gomero (ancient whistling demonstration)

There is a restaurant in Agulo offering lunch deal with a demonstration of Silbo Gomero (ancient whistling language). From here, you can take in the beautiful views of Mount Teide (Tenerife island) on a clear day. Do book in advance as the restaurant can get very busy with tour buses arriving with big groups of tourists.

Address: Restaurante Las Rosas, Rosas, Agulo, La Gomera island. Follow motorway TF-711 northwards heading towards Vallehermoso.
Telephone: +34 922 800 916
Opening hours: Monday - Saturday, 12:30 to 15:15

Mirador Roque Blanco (vantage point)

Head to this vantage point for gorgeous view over looking the Roque Blanco's valley and part of El Teón (Vallehermoso). There is also a restaurant bearing the same name offering delicious Canarian fare.

Direction: From Agulo, take motorway TF-711 towards the direction of Rosas and Vallehermoso. Exit for Rosas village and continue on its main street Calle Cruz de Tierno a El Lomo de Sibrián before turning right onto Calle de la Cruz de Tierno, follow the signs.

Address: Cruz de Tierno, Agulo, La Gomera island.

Group of Houses Caserío de Lepe

If you are heading south to Hermigua on motorway TF-711, don't forget to look out for Caserio de Lepe: a group of beautiful houses at the foot of the steep cliff face, surrounded by banana fields. It belongs to the municipal of Agulo, but is actually more closely connected to Tabaibal, as it is only accessible via the beach road from there.

Direction: when in Tabaibal on Carretera General/TF-711, turn left for Santa Catalina and follow the beach road.