casa for Køb i Icod de los Vinos, Islas Canarias

Constructed in 1670 for the Military Governor of the Island, this distinctive 17th-century mansion house carries a rich history. Following the eruption of El Teide, Tenerife's Volcano in 1706, which engulfed the nearby port of Garachico in lava, the island's port shifted to Santa Cruz. Consequently, the Governor relocated, rendering the mansion without its original purpose. There's nothing substantiated, but there has been talk that when Nelson lost his arm (and the battle) at the battle of Santa Cruz, he was allowed to convales for a year at this residence. That might make sense, as that particular battle for Tenerife took place in 1797 and so the house would likely still have been a military possession, but not the main residence of the Governor himself. While the house's use in subsequent years remains somewhat unclear, a 1923 Escritura copy mentions a small shop at the front, selling domestic items where the current Nelson Study is situated. By 2004, the house had languished vacant for 15 years until the current owners acquired it. Over the past 18 years, they dedicated themselves to its meticulous restoration, utilising original stone and Tea wood, a durable native pine tree in Tenerife and La Palma known for its termite resistance. Inside Originally, the ground floor housed stables for horses, with surrounding residences accommodating staff linked to the Governor. Today, the ground floor features the India room, adorned with furniture and artefacts from India, and the Nelson Study, showcasing paintings and memorabilia of Admiral Nelson. Notable personalities like Shakespeare, Henry VIII of England, and the Tzar and Tzarina of Russia also grace the room, which boasts a charming working fireplace. The central Patio, accessed from the entrance hall, now hosts a fish pond with a central fountain, surrounded by ferns and stone seating. Apart from doors leading to the India room and Nelson Study, the patio provides access to a lift to all floors and the Gallery, exhibiting 18 paintings of The Virgin Mary by various artists, along with exquisite furniture and Masonic chairs. Two en-suite bedrooms with shower rooms complete this level. Exiting the patio, a wardrobe with a fountain precedes steps to the garden, featuring a water tank for the house's two freshwater sources. The casual cooking area offers a stone table and benches and a stone staircase leads to the first floor. Ascending the Tea wood staircase leads to a large landing, granting entry to the drawing room, sitting room and dining room, all interconnected and adorned with antique furniture, paintings, and chandeliers. Off the dining room, a Tea wood balcony overlooks the garden. Curtains throughout the house are crafted by the renowned Davila family who have also completed similar work for the English Royal family. The kitchen, accessible from the dining room and the main landing, is well-equipped with antique furniture and blue and white china mounted on the walls. Electric appliances, marble-topped work surfaces and custom-built storage contribute to a functional space. The second floor accommodates the Library with an extensive book collection, primarily in English, Spanish and French, covering diverse subjects. Two doors lead from the Library to the roof terrace, offering panoramic views of the surroundings. Outside The garden, organised into three tiers, has potential for further development, subject to planning consent. The tranquil neighbourhood, with a cul-de-sac and the Chapel of Las Angustias at its end, adds to the appeal of this unique property. With the correct licences, this property would make a fabulous hotel or bed and breakfast business with the possibility of converting some of the lower garden into off road parking for your guests. Icod de Los Vinos - The Town Situated in the northern part of Tenerife, the picturesque town of Icod de los Vinos beckons with its charm, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Renowned for its ancient dragon tree and robust wine culture, this town offers a delightful blend of tradition and natural beauty. At the heart of Icod de los Vinos stands the iconic Drago Milenario, a millennial dragon tree that has become the emblem of the town. This ancient specimen, believed to be over a thousand years old, captivates visitors with its sheer size and mythical presence. The tree's gnarled branches stretch skyward, creating a canopy that provides a cool respite from the warm Tenerife sun. The Plaza de la Constitucion, a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings, serves as the perfect vantage point to marvel at the Drago Milenario and soak in the town's atmosphere. Wandering through the town's cobbled streets, visitors encounter charming colonial-style architecture that reflects Icod de los Vinos' deep-rooted history. The Church of San Marcos, a striking example of Canarian Baroque architecture, graces the town with its imposing facade and intricate detailing. Dating back to the 16th century, the church stands as a testament to the town's enduring religious and cultural heritage. Icod de los Vinos is not just a town of monuments; it's also a hub for wine enthusiasts. The town's viticulture dates back centuries, and its vineyards produce some of Tenerife's finest wines. Visitors can explore local bodegas (wineries) to sample a variety of wines, including the unique malvasia, a sweet wine that has become a specialty of the region. Wine tours offer a delightful immersion into the art of winemaking, allowing guests to appreciate the meticulous process that transforms grapes into the nectar of the gods. The town's cultural richness is celebrated in its museums and galleries. The Cueva del Viento, one of the largest volcanic caves in the world, offers a fascinating underground journey through ancient lava tubes. Visitors can explore the intricate formations that bear witness to the geological forces that shaped Tenerife. The Museo de Arte Sacro showcases religious art, providing insight into the spiritual life of the community over the centuries. For those seeking panoramic views, Icod de los Vinos offers vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the neighbouring island of La Palma. The Mirador de la Playa de San Marcos, a viewpoint overlooking the San Marcos beach, provides a breathtaking tableau of the coastline. The surrounding landscapes, characterised by lush vegetation and rolling hills, invite exploration, with hiking trails leading to hidden gems like the charming village of La Cueva. The town comes alive during its festivals, where locals and visitors alike participate in lively celebrations. The Festival of San Andres in November sees the streets adorned with colourful carpets made of flowers and dyed salt, paying homage to the patron saint of vineyards and nighttime sees people of many ages flying down the cobbled streets on wooden sleds. The atmosphere is electric with traditional music, dance, and the clinking of glasses filled with local wines. Icod de los Vinos is not merely a destination; it's an immersive experience that invites travellers to savour the essence of Tenerife's northern charm. With its ancient dragon tree, historic landmarks, flourishing vineyards, and warm community spirit, this town captures the heart and soul of the island, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Tenerife experience.