An evergreen mountain
Length: 500 m.
Required stops: 4
Difficulty: 0
Get ready to discover one of the most unique green treasures of the Canary Islands: the Agua García Forest. Here, where life flourishes in cold or hot weather, an evergreen ecosystem, known as monteverde, awaits you. Along the trail you are about to walk, you will have the opportunity to explore it with your own eyes.
Today, the monteverde is only conserved in good condition in two places in the world: the Canary Islands and Madeira. This type of forest occupies humid and temperate zones, where the trade winds bring with them an essential commodity for life: water. From the small insects on the ground to the large trees, all depend on this vital resource. You will soon understand how each being in the forest collaborates to capture and conserve it.
The Guardians of the Elixir
As you advance along the trail, you will meet the true guardians of the water in this ecosystem. Among them is the vinatigo, a majestic tree that grows in the rich, moist soils of Barranco de Toledo. At Agua García, these trees not only survive, but thrive for centuries, helping to maintain the balance of the forest.
And they won’t be alone: further down the road you’ll find other centuries-old vineyards that have shared their “elixir” with unexpected visitors. Who were these guests? When you visit, you will find out.
A Pact for Life
One of the most special points of the tour is the Madre del Agua, a place where history and nature intertwine. Here, centuries-old trees stand guarding an ancient water gallery, built to supply the inhabitants of the area.
Since the 16th century, the lives of nearby communities have depended on water and trees. But here, a wise decision was made: to protect the forest in exchange for allowing the sustainable use of its most valuable resource. Despite threats and the reduction of the monteverde over time, the pact has been renewed. Today, the commitment to nature is still alive, and includes restoring what was damaged.
End of tour
The trail ends at an esplanade equipped with benches and resting places, perfect for stopping, breathing and reflecting before heading back. This place not only offers rest, but also the opportunity to connect with a landscape that has managed to resist and renew itself.