Tijarafe on La Palma – Holiday Homes & Travel

Tijarafe is a picturesque municipality located in the northwest of La Palma, known for its rich cultural tradition, stunning views, and local gastronomy. This Canary Island gem stands out for its traditional houses, which reflect the typical island architecture, and for its expansive almond groves and vineyards that adorn the landscape.

Nature: The Paris of Candelaria and Playa La Veta
Poris de la Candelaria
A landmark site that completes the landscape of Tijarafe is Poris de la Candelaria, a small coastal village that offers an authentic view of traditional Canary Island fishing life. Its traditional houses and natural surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the municipality.
Playa La Veta is a natural treasure of Tijarafe. It is a seasonal black sand beach that forms in spring and reaches its peak in summer. Situated at the foot of an impressive 200-meter cliff, it offers a spectacular landscape and numerous caves that locals use during the summer months.

Culture: Espacio 20/21 Contemporary Art Museum
The municipality is home to an exceptional cultural project: the Espacio 20/21 Contemporary Art Museum. This art center, located on top of a hill, presents a collection of Spanish and international contemporary art. The museum emerged from a project by gallery owner Stefan Röpke and has overcome numerous adversities such as a pandemic, an earthquake, and a volcano. Its rooms exhibit works by renowned artists such as Julio González, Tápies, Chillida, and Oteiza.

The Devil Dance: A Centuries-Old Tradition
The Devil Dance is the most iconic event in Tijarafe, celebrated during the Fiestas de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria. This tradition, which began in 1923, takes place in the early hours of September 8 and symbolizes the battle between good and evil. The festival begins with a dance party featuring local orchestras, where giants and big-head figures appear to create excitement among the attendees. The Devil appears unexpectedly, usually after midnight, launching fireworks from all over its body and offering a light and sound spectacle. The climax is reached with the explosion of the Devil's head. This unique celebration attracts thousands of visitors each year, with more than 7,000 people attending in 2024.

Local Gastronomy
The cuisine of Tijarafe is characterized by authentic flavors and high-quality products. Some of the standout dishes include goat meat in sauce, a traditional Canary Island dish highly appreciated for its flavor and tenderness. Grilled pork, which is slowly cooked to bring out its juiciness and flavor, is also a favorite. Chicharrones are another local delicacy that should not be missed at the table, perfect as an appetizer or accompaniment. Additionally, Gofio, a flour made from roasted grains typical of the Canary Islands, is used in various preparations and is a staple in the local diet.
Tijarafe, along with Puntagorda and Garafía, has the largest concentration of vineyards in the midlands of La Palma. Notable is the Vino de Tea, produced with native grapes such as Negramoll and Albillo, and aged in centuries-old tea wood barrels. Therefore, it is the perfect excuse to savor these wines in the region or visit a winery.

Landscape and Architecture
Tijarafe offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coast of La Palma. The blooming almond trees during the season create a unique visual spectacle. The traditional houses of the municipality, with their gable roofs and white walls, are a perfect example of Canary Island architecture.

Conclusion
Tijarafe is a destination that uniquely combines tradition, nature, and gastronomy. Whether it’s its famous Devil Dance, its delicious local dishes, or its captivating landscapes, this Palmese municipality offers an authentic and memorable experience for all its visitors.