Tenerife: Vilaflor, Winery, and Aloe Vera Plantation Tour

If you’re looking to get a taste of Tenerife beyond its famous beaches and volcanic landscapes, this half-day tour offers a charming look at the island’s rural side. It’s a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and delicious local flavors, perfect for those who want a relaxed, yet enriching experience. We’ve seen how travelers often enjoy discovering the island’s agriculture and small villages, and this tour hits those points well.

Two things we really like about this tour are the stunning views from Vilaflor, perched high on Mount Teide’s southern slopes, and the chance to taste award-winning wines from a family-run bodega. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts just four hours, so it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth deep dive into Tenerife’s rural culture. This makes it ideal for those with limited time or looking for a gentle introduction rather than an exhaustive tour.

This experience tends to appeal most to travelers interested in local food and drink, scenic villages, and learning about aloe vera’s uses. If you’re into wine, plant-based wellness, or simply want a break from more popular tourist spots, this could be a good fit. However, those in wheelchairs or with mobility concerns should be aware that the tour involves walking through Vilaflor and uneven terrain at the plantation.

Key Points

• Scenic rural landscapes and views of the coast from high altitude
• Educational visit to an aloe vera plantation and insight into its uses
• Exploration of Vilaflor, the highest village on Tenerife, with a unique atmosphere
• Tasting of local wines at a family-owned, award-winning winery
• Expert local guides providing in-depth knowledge of the island’s culture and history
• Duration of about 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tenerife Vilaflor, Winery, and Aloe Vera Tour

This tour offers a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and tasting experiences packed into just four hours. It’s a flexible way to explore Tenerife’s inland treasures without committing to a full-day adventure. We’ll walk through the itinerary, highlighting what makes each stop special and what you might want to prepare for.

Venture Into Tenerife’s Hilly Interior

The journey begins with a drive into Tenerife’s south, where you’ll get a glimpse of the island’s rugged, volcanic terrain. The landscape here is anything but flat; expect rolling hills, volcanic rocks, and lush greenery that thrive thanks to the island’s mild climate. Your guide, who’s well-versed in Tenerife’s quirks and history, will share stories about the land, its people, and how agriculture has shaped this part of the island.

Aloe Vera Plantation: Wellness Secrets and Uses

Next up, you’ll visit a dedicated aloe vera plantation. Although aloe isn’t native to the Canary Islands—it came from the Arabian Peninsula—the dry, sunny climate makes it perfect for growing here. The owners will guide you through the plantation, explaining how the plant is cultivated and its various medicinal and cosmetic uses.

What makes this stop stand out is the personalized storytelling. You’ll learn about aloe vera’s wellness secrets and its historical uses across cultures. One of the more engaging aspects is understanding how this humble plant can be used for everything from skin care to medicinal remedies. Travelers often find this part surprisingly informative, especially when the owners share their own tips and tricks.

Vilaflor: The Highest Village on Tenerife

The highlight for many is a visit to Vilaflor, perched at around 1,400 meters above sea level. This little village feels like stepping into an alpine retreat—think narrow streets, traditional Canarian houses, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a stark contrast to the island’s tropical coast.

Ivan, the local guide, often retells the story behind Vilaflor’s name, which originates from a ship captain who, upon seeing a beautiful Guanche girl, exclaimed, “Vi la flor de Chasna,” meaning “I’ve seen the flower of Chasna.” It’s these charming stories that add character to your walk around the village and give you a sense of its history.

From Vilaflor’s vantage points, you’ll enjoy impressive views of the coast and Mount Teide. The large pine forest nearby is a visual treat and offers a different kind of lush landscape compared to the volcanic terrain below. Walking through Vilaflor, you’ll get a sense of authentic island life away from the tourist hotspots.

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Wine Tasting at a Family-Owned Winery

No rural experience would be complete without some local wine, and here you’ll visit an award-winning family-owned bodega. The winery’s setting is charming and intimate, and the tasting session is the perfect way to end the tour. You’ll sample a selection of local wines, which many reviews praise for their quality and unique flavors.

The owner’s stories about their vineyard and wine-making process make the tasting more engaging. People often remark on the friendly atmosphere and the chance to try wines you might not find elsewhere. It’s a good value for those interested in exploring Tenerife’s emerging wine scene—many find the tasting to be the highlight of the experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts around four hours, which makes it suitable for those who prefer a shorter, relaxed outing. The group sizes tend to be small, led by an expert guide who speaks English and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

You’ll want to wear comfortable footwear because the tour includes walking through Vilaflor and uneven plantation terrain. It’s also wise to bring warm clothes, especially if you’re visiting Vilaflor, as the elevation means it can be cooler than the coast. Keep in mind that the tour is subject to weather conditions; if it’s very rainy or windy, the plantation and outdoor walks might be affected, and cancellations can occur with a full refund.

Transport is provided as part of the tour, but specific details about vehicle type aren’t given. It’s a guided tour, so expect a group size that’s manageable and not overwhelming, with the flexibility to ask questions and engage with your guide.

The Value of the Tour

At its current rating of 3.7, the tour offers a solid experience, especially for those keen on small-group, local-focused excursions. The price reflects a good balance considering the scenic views, cultural insights, and tasting opportunities, but it’s not a comprehensive or exhaustive exploration of the island’s rural life. It’s more of a taste—literally and figuratively—of Tenerife’s inland delights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in local culture, scenic villages, and wine. If you enjoy learning about plants and wellness, the aloe vera visit adds an interesting twist. It’s a relaxed outing, ideal if you want a half-day that doesn’t involve much walking or physical effort.

If you’re traveling with mobility issues, be aware that walking through Vilaflor and the plantation may be challenging, as it involves uneven terrain. It’s also ideal for those who want a photo-worthy experience, thanks to the stunning views from Vilaflor and the plantation’s lush surroundings.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally geared toward adults, especially considering the walking involved and the tasting component. Children might enjoy the scenic views and the plantation, but it’s not specifically designed as a family activity.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, warm clothing for Vilaflor’s higher altitude, and perhaps a camera for the scenic views. Sunscreen and water are also advisable, especially in the sunny Canary climate.

How long does the wine tasting last?
The wine tasting is part of the visit to the family-owned winery and is included in the four-hour duration. It’s a relaxed session, allowing you to savor different local wines.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, but specific details aren’t listed. It’s a guided experience, so expect to be picked up and dropped off at a designated meeting point.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour is generally weather-dependent, it’s suitable year-round. Just keep in mind Vilaflor’s cooler temperatures, especially in winter.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, giving you flexibility with your travel planning.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a taste of Tenerife’s inland charm, this tour hits a lot of marks—beautiful scenery, cultural stories, and delicious local wines. It’s a well-rounded way to see a different side of the island without a full-day commitment. The highlight for many is the panoramic views from Vilaflor and the personal stories of the wine and aloe vera growers.

While it’s not a deep dive into the island’s history or agriculture, it offers enough to satisfy curious travelers who want a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful experience. It’s especially suited for those with a moderate interest in local culture, nature, and food, and who appreciate a guided, informative approach.

If your trip is short or you prefer a laid-back half-day adventure that combines nature and local flavors, this tour could be a great addition to your Tenerife itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: