Tucked into the southeastern slopes of La Palma, Villa de Mazo blends history, tradition, and nature in a unique rural setting. The municipality stretches across a wide, peaceful territory dotted with small hamlets and scattered houses, making it the perfect destination for rural tourism, serenity, and a deep connection with the authentic nature of La Palma. Sitting at 500 m above sea level, between volcanic midlands and banana plantations, Villa de Mazo is known for its embroidery craftsmanship, its natural landscapes, and the island’s airport located along its coastline.
Technical Information
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Municipality | Villa de Mazo |
| Altitude | ~500 m (town), 0–1,400 m (municipality) |
| Population | ≈ 4,900 inhabitants |
| Area | 71.17 km² |
| Access | LP‑2, LP‑3, LP‑205 |
| Services | Airport, School of Crafts, museum, market, hiking trails, beaches |
| Ideal for | Culture, crafts, archaeology, hiking, rural tourism |
Why visit Villa de Mazo?
- Living tradition: Villa de Mazo is home to the island’s highest number of artisans and hosts the Island School of Traditional Crafts, offering workshops and exhibitions.
- Ancient roots: The Belmaco Cave, a site of ten ancient caves adorned with petroglyphs, is one of the first archaeological landmarks discovered in the Canary Islands.
- Natural wealth: Part of Cumbre Vieja and the Montañas del Azufre are within its territory, offering protected landscapes and stunning hiking trails.
- Global connection: Hosting La Palma’s only airport, it serves as both a gateway and strategic base to explore the island.
Camera Provided by Apalmet.es
What to See and Do
- Belmaco Cave
La Palma’s most iconic pre-Hispanic site, featuring geometric petroglyphs and deep archaeological value. - Weekend Farmers’ Market
Held every Saturday and Sunday, the market brings together artisans, local farmers, and traditional produce. - La Salemera
A peaceful coastal village perfect for swimming, fishing, and watching local boats drift along the shore.
The Red House: living memory of Corpus Christi and local crafts
In the heart of Villa de Mazo’s historic centre stands an eye-catching building that unites architectural beauty, tradition, and cultural heritage: La Casa Roja, home to the Corpus Christi Museum and a symbol of the town’s identity. Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Built in 1911 with stately charm, this burgundy-red residence stands out among the island’s traditional houses. Today, it has been converted into a museum that preserves and exhibits the most important elements of Mazo’s Corpus Christi festival, one of La Palma’s most unique celebrations, officially recognised as a Festival of National Tourist Interest.
Every year, residents transform the town into an open-air ephemeral museum, decorating streets, squares, and churches with arches, carpets, and tapestries made of flowers, seeds, leaves, and other natural materials.
What you’ll find in the museum
- Historic photographs and reproductions of Corpus Christi arches and carpets dating back to the early 20th century.
- Samples of the natural materials and traditional techniques used to create these fleeting works of art.
- A permanent collection of embroidery, one of Villa de Mazo’s most iconic crafts.
- Interactive exhibits explaining the evolution and significance of the Corpus festival in local culture.
- Artisan shop with handmade items crafted by local artisans: embroidery, pottery, basketry, miniatures, and more.
Hiking from Villa de Mazo: trails through volcanoes, forests, and heritage
Villa de Mazo is an excellent base for experienced hikers. Thanks to its strategic location between sea and mountains, the area offers surprising trails that wind through pine and laurel forests, ancient volcanic peaks, and centuries-old royal paths. These routes let you connect with nature, history, and breathtaking views:
- Trail to Roque Niquiomo and Refugio del Pilar: A challenging but rewarding climb through volcanic ridges and pine forests up to the striking Roque Niquiomo. You can continue toward Refugio del Pilar, linking with the iconic Volcano Route. Distance: 14 km (more if continued to Refugio del Pilar). Difficulty: Medium to high
- Villa de Mazo – Santa Cruz de La Palma. A panoramic hike descending to the island’s capital, passing through old trails, historic paths, and cultivated fields with ocean views.
Distance: 11 km. Difficulty: Moderate
- Villa de Mazo – Playa de La Salemera. A downhill trail leading to the Atlantic shore and the charming seaside village of La Salemera. Perfect for combining hiking with a swim, and maybe a meal of fresh fish by the ocean.
Festivals and Traditions
- Corpus Christi (June): Religious and cultural festivities with floral carpets, local cuisine, and family-friendly events.
- Borrachito Fogatero Dance (October): A fiery, musical celebration that pays tribute to the town’s winemaking heritage.
Held every October in the neighbourhood of Hoyo de Mazo, the Borrachito Fogatero Festival is a local celebration full of fire, music, and community spirit. Born in the late 1970s, this event revolves around a giant barrel-shaped figure, the “Borrachito”, who dances wildly through the night among fireworks and joyful music. Declared a Cultural Heritage Festival, it takes place during the patronal festivities in honour of Our Lady of Sorrows and has become one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year. The Borrachito symbolises the creative, festive soul of the community and delivers an unforgettable visual and emotional experience, filled with costumes, sparks, and shared joy.
Practical Tips for Your Visit to Villa de Mazo
- Perfect for disconnecting: Ideal for travellers seeking peace, nature, and an escape from city life.
- Getting there without a car: While a car is recommended for exploring La Palma, Villa de Mazo is accessible by bus from Santa Cruz de La Palma and Fuencaliente.
- Variable climate: Big temperature differences exist between the coast and higher altitudes. The town, at 500 m, is cooler and more humid, especially in winter, when fog is common.
- Weekend plan: Visit the historic centre and the artisan market on a Saturday or Sunday morning. Afterwards, head to La Salemera for a relaxing time by the sea.
- Bring good footwear: Villa de Mazo has steep, cobbled streets. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring on foot.
