From the restaurant outside the main entrance you’ll be able to enjoy splendid views over the whole of this fascinating botanical garden (Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo) it was established in 1952 by the Swede Eric Sventenius, who remained its director until his death in 1973. Most of the botanical garden is laid out along a steeply sloping side of the Barranco de Guiniguada, which at one point can be crossed on a wooden bridge to reach the flatter areas. Cobbled paths leading down in steps past caves and cascades make it not the most disabled-friendly of destinations.
Named after José de Viera y Clavijo, the author of the Canarian Natural History Dictionary, this botanical garden focuses on flowers and plants endemic to the seven islands of the archipelago, inclusive of the islands belonging to the so-called Macaronesia, Madeira, the Azores and Cape Verde.
Set on terraces and growing in their natural environment, the Jardín Botánico accords each species their own space. Just past the main entrance you will find a mini laurisilva (laurel forest), which originally covered the island in pre-Hispanic times but which was later destroyed completely. Entering from the Dragonal road, you’ll first encounter the Plaza de las Palmeras featuring the Canary Island Date Palm found on all islands of the archipelago.
Other highlights to look out for include the Jardín de las Islas (Garden of the Islands), which is a central lawn with several rocks where different species flourish in groups according to the Canary island they originate from and the Ornamental Garden of Macaronesia, where you can view highly decorative plants.
This is a true paradise for botanists and nature lovers – absolutely worth a visit.
Opening hours:
Daily from 09.00 to 18.00 hrs - Closed on New Year’s Day and Good Friday.
