Description
Camino de la Virgen, also known as Camino de la Encarnación, is an ideal footpath for walking in the early hours of the day or at dusk, when the sunlight enhances the reddish colour of the terrain.
The trail owes its name to the annual procession in which the inhabitants of Adeje carry the Virgen de la Encarnación (Our Lady of the Incarnation) from La Enramada to the chapel of Santa Úrsula de la Villa, a tradition that began in the 16th century with the aim of protecting the statue of the Virgin Mary from pirate attacks.
The trail begins at the gate that provides access from the Fañabé – La Caleta road and heads out under open skies in the direction of the coast. On its way the path passes through abandoned farmlands until it reaches the area known as Tosca Colorada. Here you can see the tracks of carts carved into the rock, a sign that this trail was used in the past to transport goods.
You will also come across a stop where pilgrims pray to the Virgin Mary on their way and, a little further on, the place known as Humilladero, where, according to tradition, Our Lady of the Incarnation appeared and was worshipped for the first time.
The route ends next to the old chapel of La Enramada or San Sebastián, just a stone’s throw from the Adeje coast.
Tips
- Always stay on the marked trail and do not enter private property, hunting grounds, water galleries, wells or caves.
- Pay special attention when crossing or walking along trails used by bicycles, horses or motor vehicles and when walking in ravines with water courses.
- Avoid direct encounters with potentially dangerous animals, such as livestock, beehives, and dogs.
- Proceed with caution and watch for obstacles, loose rocks, uneven terrain or steep slopes to avoid accidents and falls.
- Check out our guide to hiking in Tenerife and, if necessary, contact the emergency services by calling 112.
Guides
Link to the hiking brochure of the Adeje Town Council
