The hamlet of Las Vegas dates back to the 16th century, being one of the places where the colonisation of the territory began, when Gonzalo Suárez de Quesada built a small hermitage on fertile land. This hermitage is currently dedicated to Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza. The “vegas” are watercourses of the ravines that receive abundant water and materials from the highlands, and are very fertile.
In the past, grain, potatoes, vines, vegetables and fruit trees were grown there. Pasiles were also built, which were long stone structures for drying fruit in the sun, especially figs and prickly pears. In winter they were dried in ovens and thus provided sustenance throughout the year. In this area there are also many constructions for harnessing, conducting and storing water. The Caserío de Las Vegas provides an insight into the unique characteristics of traditional Canarian architecture. In addition, nearby are the springs and galleries that carry water to the south of the island. This natural scenery includes areas of Canarian pine forest, island undergrowth species such as rockrose and escobón, as well as endemic island plant species of different levels and ecosystems, such as tabaiba, verode and tajinaste in the surroundings of this enclave, which is situated between the arid coastline, the midlands and the peaks. Granadilla de Abona.
The Nuestra Señora la Virgen de la Esperanza hermitage has become a reference point for the start of trekking routes through the Caserío de Las Vegas, from where it links up with cobbled paths and forest tracks to reach the Corona Forestal Nature Reserve and the Teide National Park.
