Salida 9 - Candelaria

torrenter · 20th September 2007, 12:14

I've been exploring some of the coastal towns to the east of the airport. They are reachable from the TF1 motorway, and the other day, it was the turn of Salida 9 - the exit leading to Candelaria

It's 'Salida 9' according to the maps, but salida 40-something according to the roadsign - still; just follow the sign to Candelaria, which is a sizable town.

And what a nice town it is, too! When walking around, you get a strong impression of history in Candelaria. This makes a nice change from 'everything built after 1960', which can sometimes be the case - especially in the south.

As usual, I went for the coast, and after a little searching, found a parking place. Within a minute, we came across the main town plaza.

Wow! (see 'Plaza Panorama')

There were cafes around the plaza, and we decided on some lunch. Most cafes had a tapas selection, and we chose portions (big!) of paella, crab, chicken wings, carne cabra in herby salsa and achiovies - all with bread rolls and washed down with beer, wine & coffees. Wonderfully cooked, and the service was attentive and bilingual (though I always use the little Spanish I have when visiting)

Makes my mouth water again just to write about it!

The plaza has (I think) seven huge bronze statues on lavarock plinths guarding the seafront. (see pic #1) Walking to the west, the promenade ends with a giant cave (like the one in Playa San Juan)

Walking east takes you along pedestrianised streets, with touristy shops - I suppose it's a kind of ramblas for the town. You end up at the harbour end of town (see pic #2) which is very pretty.

On the way, we saw the agricultuaral market (see pic #3) which is open every day.

Candelaria is the sort of place you could spend a whole day at. It's a lovely town - very pretty and historic. A few tourists there (mainly Spanish & German) but nothing like the Southern towns, and it has the 'Spanish feel' of Guimar.

I'll be coming back for a closer look at Candelaria, after reading up on the history a little more.

Link to Plaza Panorama: http://www.charcodelvalle.com/webroot/panos/salida09a/

Link to Habour Panorama: http://www.charcodelvalle.com/webroot/panos/salida09/
(if you browser wants to install the 'quicktime plugin' - just say 'yes')

balcon · 20th September 2007, 13:19

We went with our Canarian friends the other week and really enjoyed ourselves, like you say it is worth spending a few hours there because it does have a lot of history to offer ...... thanks again for sharing your visit's with us, I do look forward to them

acmar · 20th September 2007, 21:59

Thanks torrenter. This certainly looks like its well worth a visit next time we are out there.
Photos are great as well, and your sky looks a lot better than we are getting in Manchester at the moment
Looking forward to your next installment

MilaB · 14th December 2007, 18:17

I've loved reading this whole series of posts and the panorama photos are super. I hope to make good use of the info when I visit soon. Keep up the good work Torrenter.

Rolzysmum · 14th December 2007, 18:25

I must agree. Fascinating posts and I love the panoramic views.
We visited Candelaria (all too briefly) on one holiday and were struck by it's charm. We also went into the church where they have the Black Madonna.
Wonderful shots - wonderful memories!