Close-up of the trunk of a huge pine tree, with thick and rough bark, and leafy branches extending sideways. The tree is surrounded by a small area bounded by benches and a stone wall, amidst a pine forest illuminated by daylight.
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The Silent Giant of Southern Tenerife

In the heart of Natural Park of the Corona Forestal, just a few minutes from the village of Vilaflor de Chasna, stands a silent witness of centuries: the Pino Gordo. With a perimeter of about 9.4 meters and a height of about 45 meters, this specimen of Pinus canariensis is the sturdiest pine in the Canaries and a living symbol of the resilience and majesty of the Canarian nature.

Recreational area in a forest setting with a large pine tree with a very thick trunk in the center, surrounded by a small stone wall and wooden benches. The ground is covered with needles and cones, and a pine forest extends around it under a clear blue sky.

Unlike other natural monuments that require complicated ascents or special permits, the Pino Gordo is located just a few meters from a secondary road, accessible via a short, well-marked path. This proximity does not diminish its impact: on the contrary, it intensifies the thrill of discovering it suddenly, as if the forest decided to reveal one of its best-kept secrets.

A Witness of Centuries

With an estimated age of nearly eight centuries, the Pino Gordo has survived multiple wildfires, storms, and extreme climate changes. Its thick, twisted trunk shows scars that tell of battles against fire, while its crown rises with dignity towards the sky, dominating the landscape of southern Tenerife.

What distinguishes it from other Canary pines — a species that is already emblematic — is its exceptional volume. Just about 25 meters away stands another giant, the Pino de las Dos Pernadas, which is even taller. This record makes it a point of interest not only for botanists and ecologists but also for travelers seeking authentic experiences outside the usual tourist circuits.

Access and Natural Environment

Access to the Pino Gordo is easy: it is located next to the TF-21 road, a few minutes from Vilaflor towards Teide, with a small space to stop by the tree.

The surroundings are immersed in the Natural Park of the Corona Forestal, the largest forest reserve in the Canaries and one of the most significant continuous stretches of Canary pine in the world. Here, the air is cool even in summer, and the silence is broken only by the wind through the pine needles or the song of endemic birds like the Canary chiffchaff.

This spot is ideal for:

  • Natural photography: the light filtered through the canopies creates unique shadow plays.
  • Environmental education: perfect for explaining to children and adults the importance of island ecosystems.
  • Light hiking: multiple trails start from the area, such as the trail to the Lunar Landscape.

Why Visiting is Worth It

Beyond its size, the Pino Gordo represents a bridge between past and present. On an island where mass tourism sometimes overshadows the natural richness, this tree invites you to pause, breathe, and connect with something older than us. There are no tickets, no hours, no crowds: just you, the forest, and a giant that has witnessed generations pass by.

Moreover, its strategic location makes it a perfect stop on routes through southern Tenerife: combine it with a visit to the Teide, at the La Centinela viewpoint or to the vineyards of Vilaflor, the highest village in the Canaries.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wear comfortable footwear: although the access is short, the ground can be uneven.
  • Visit at dawn or dusk: the light is softer and there are fewer visitors.
  • Respect the environment: do not touch the bark or leave waste. The Pino Gordo is fragile, despite its sturdy appearance.
  • Check the condition of the path: on rainy days, access can become slippery.

Conclusion

The Pino Gordo of Vilaflor is not just a tree: it is a living monument, a natural legacy, and a sensory experience that encapsulates the wild essence of Tenerife. In a fast-paced world, it offers a rare gift: the opportunity to marvel at something truly ancient, silent, and powerful.

Ready to meet the giant of the south? You just need curiosity… and a good pair of shoes. And before you go, you can check the weather in the area with our webcams of Vilaflor.

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