Valle Gran Rey

The statue of Hautacuperche

Since 2007, a bronze statue of the island's biggest rebels has stood on the beach of Valle Gran Rey. This four metre-high statue of Hautacuperche stands in La Puntilla, with its back to the sea. Hautacuperche's rebellion took place in 1488, and was directed against the Spanish occupier Hernán de Peraza, who had taken forcible rule over the inhabitants of La Gomera. The pursuit of Iballa, Princess of the Gomerita, was the trigger for the rebellion. Hautacuperche is sought to have hit Hernán de Peraza in the back of his neck with a spear, killing him. In response, the Governor of Gran Canaria, Pedro de Vera, ordered that all men above the age of 15 must be killed. Women and children were also enslaved. Despite the tragic ending, Hautacuperche was celebrated as a hero.

Mirador del Palmajero (viewpoint)

Lanzarote born artist César Manrique created this great viewpoint of Palmajero in 1989. High above the valley, visitors can enjoy views of the green agricultural terraces which extend across to the sea. In the cactus gardens in front Mirador del Palmajero is a discreet door made of dark wood. This door leads into a restaurant named Mirador Cêsar Manrique. Inside, a large glass wall opens up the stunning view outside.

Santo Pilgrimage Church

In this church in Aurure, the Fiesta del Ramo (the bouquet festival) is held in honour of Saint Salvador, on the 16th of August. Each year, one indigenous family puts together a bouquet, which is more like a tree, as it weighs around 30kgs. The stem is enwrapped with fern, and is decorated with flowers, vegetables, and fruits from the local gardens.

Los Reyes Pilgrimage Church

This church was greatly influenced by the traditional Mudejar style of architecture, which is popular in the Canary Islands. In order to reach this historic building, you have to use a walking path, which lies hidden in reeds. This place of worship is surrounded by a small square, and lies at the foot of the cliff face. It is thought to originate from the 16th century, a time when sugar cultivations were first set up in this region. During this period, the earls of La Gomera came from the island's capital San Sebastián, and spent time here. The church harbours a triptych, with an 18th century motif of the veneration of the Three Kings.

Los Órganos (The pipe organs) cliff

Along the coast near Vallehermoso, there is a uniquely shaped cliff line called Los Órganos- a basalt formation often referred to as the most beautiful of the Canaries. The cliffs of Los Órganos rise 80 meters high and are 200 meters wide. This natural work of art was countoured by volcanic lava masses, which cooled down in time. Erosion took care of the rest, and resulted in the cliffs being shaped like organ pipes. The entirety of Los Órganos can only be viewed from a boat. Many boat excursions can be organised from harbour towns such as Valle Gran Rey and Playa Santiago.

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