Mirador de la Atalaya
is situated in the village of Artenara that with an altitude of 1270 m is the highest village on the island and also one of the oldest. A statue of Christ with outstretched arms welcomes visitors.
This strange village is without doubt the most spectacular on the island, with many of the houses built inside the solid stone caves dating from prehistoric times. Although some of them, with their painted facades - almost resembling the common house, and most of them are equipped with all modern conveniences.
Cave Church of La Ermita de la Cuevita houses the statue of the Virgen de la Cuevita, which is celebrated on 15th August with a big fiesta. If it wasn't for the clock above the entrance, you would have trouble recognizing it as a church. The more conventional church in the village is the Iglesia de San Matías.
About 12 km to the west from Artenara, you will find the nature reserve Pinar de Tamadaba, the largest pine forest on the island. After going around Pico de Tamadaba (1444 m), you can enjoy the spectacular views of the west coast and also Teide. On hazy days changes the pine forest to an enchanted fairytale scene with huge boulders lying between trees and moss hanging down from the branches like green yellow veil. This nature park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
The sculptures, called "Forestas" and "Pròtego" are made by Màximo Riol and erected in 2007 as a tribute to the Environmental and Nature Conservation Workers of Gran Canaria.
