San Martín in La Palma – History and Tradition to Welcome Winter

Traveling also means discovering customs. Every place has its own way of celebrating, of gathering, of sharing stories. In La Palma, November has its own excuse: San Martín. A tradition where young wine, roasted chestnuts, and fire become ritual.

At Hacienda San Jorge, we like to live each season with the soul of the island, and November is the perfect opportunity to connect with the rural, authentic, and peaceful essence of La Palma. Here’s why San Martín is not just a festivity, but a cultural experience.

1. Origins of San Martín: from wine to gathering

Saint Martin of Tours was a soldier turned monk, known for sharing his cloak with a beggar on a cold night. His story gave rise to a celebration which, in many parts of Europe, marks the arrival of winter with human warmth and young wine.

In the Canary Islands, and especially in La Palma, San Martín has become a celebration deeply tied to the countryside, to the wineries, and to seasonal produce. Every November 11, barrels of young wine are opened, chestnuts are roasted over fire, and the harvest is celebrated.

2. Roasting chestnuts, opening wine: the rural soul of November

The tradition of San Martín in La Palma doesn’t involve grand parades or artificial lights. It has embers, friends, clay cups, and folk songs. It’s a simple yet profound festivity, where the act of sharing a meal and a fire takes on an almost sacred meaning.

During these days, many homes and wineries open their doors to offer tastings of the island’s new wine, paired with potatoes, cheese, mojo, and chestnuts.

3. San Martín as a “slow travel” experience

For those visiting La Palma in November, San Martín offers a glimpse into the most authentic side of Canarian rural culture. Instead of noise, there are gatherings. Instead of rush, there are conversations. It’s the ideal time for those seeking to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with the land.

4. An island that welcomes with fire, flavor, and tradition

San Martín is not a tourist activity. It’s a way of welcoming winter, of giving thanks for what the earth provides, of celebrating with long-time friends and newcomers alike. That’s why November in La Palma is one of those hidden gems worth discovering.

If you’re thinking about a different kind of getaway, free from crowds and routines, this is the perfect month to taste living culture, walk among palm trees, and let the island’s warmth embrace you.

At Hacienda San Jorge, we’re waiting to welcome you—slowly, with flavor and with history.

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