The villages of northern Tenerife are still largely unexplored and sometimes almost secret gems of the Canary Islands, imbued with unique charms that deserve to be explored with calm and attention. Begin with La Laguna, a historic city with ancient streets waiting to be strolled along, colourful colonial buildings, and a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Laguna offers an immersion into the island’s rich history and culture.
However, this part of the island contains several other points of interest: Garachico, with its natural pools and volcanic lava; Ico de los Vinos, with its ancient dragon tree and wineries; Puerto de la Cruz with its black sand beaches and the beautiful Martiánez lake. Follow us through this article and discover what you need to know about the villages of northern Tenerife. They are true treasures you can explore and enjoy in the north of Tenerife.
Villages of northern Tenerife: perfect for rural getaways
The north of Tenerife is ideal for rural getaways, offering a mix of natural landscapes and historic villages. San Juan de la Rambla and Los Realejos are coastal villages that combine natural beauty with a rustic atmosphere, perfect for disconnecting from the daily grind. Each of these places provides an authentic and revitalising experience, ideal for those seeking peace, tranquillity, and a connection with nature.
Explore the most beautiful villages in the north of Tenerife
Tenerife is much more than beaches, and its villages are definitely worth a visit. Want to know which villages in northern Tenerife you should visit on your next trip to the Canary Islands? Take a look at our list!
Los Realejos
This picturesque town is known for its traditional festivals and rich history. Explore its churches and viewpoints to enjoy panoramic views of the La Orotava Valley.
San Juan de la Rambla
A small coastal village with rustic charm, perfect for a relaxing walk. Visit the Plaza de San Juan and the beautiful coastal area.
La Guancha
A tranquil village with vineyards and agricultural landscapes. Its local wineries are perfect for tasting traditional wines and enjoying the rural atmosphere.
Taganana
Situated in the Anaga Rural Park, this village offers stunning views of the Atlantic and trails leading to secluded beaches. One such beach is Playa de Benijo, known for its strong waves and spectacular scenery.
Orotava
A historic city with cobbled streets, colonial houses, and lush gardens. Don’t miss the Casa de los Balcones, famous for its carved wooden balconies; and the Victoria Gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Explore the most beautiful villages in northern Tenerife and discover a vast array of activities for your holidays: cultural moments, immersion in nature, gastronomy, beaches, and much more. Tenerife has it all.
What to see in northern Tenerife
There is so much to see in this part of the island. Here are our recommendations:
Anaga Rural Park
A must-visit for nature lovers, with its impressive routes and trails and lush green landscapes. The Humboldt Viewpoint offers unforgettable panoramic views of the La Orotava Valley and Mount Teide.
Teide National Park
Although Teide is located almost in the centre of the island, the views and trails from the north are spectacular. The road that climbs from La Orotava offers incredible views and takes you to the highest peak in Spain.
Punta del Hidalgo
Known for its rock formations and natural pools, it’s a popular place for hiking and enjoying the views of the ocean and the Anaga mountains.
Exploring the north of Tenerife offers an incredible mix of nature, culture, and history, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Come and discover the traditional cuisine of northern Tenerife
The traditional cuisine of northern Tenerife stands out for its use of local ingredients and ancestral recipes. Visiting the various villages of northern Tenerife is the best way to discover it. The ‘papas arrugadas’ are an inevitable typical dish; they’re usually served with plenty of ‘mojo picón’ and ‘mojo verde’. ‘Gofio’ is another essential of Canarian cuisine: a toasted cereal flour used in many dishes. Fresh fish, such as grouper and parrotfish, are usually grilled. Rabbit in salmorejo is a popular dish, marinated in a mixture of garlic, wine, and spices. For dessert, ‘bienmesabe’, a mixture of almonds, honey, and eggs, is very popular. Local wines, especially the whites from La Orotava, pair well with these delicacies and enhance the visitor’s multisensory experience.
The cultural offerings of the best places in northern Tenerife
Northern Tenerife offers a rich cultural variety: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital, is famous for its Carnaval. It’s one of the largest in the world, where locals meet visitors in a unique and unforgettable experience. We can also visit el Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre (the Museum of Nature and Mankind), which reveals the archaeology and natural history of the Canary Islands. La Laguna, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, enchants with its colonial streets and the University of La Laguna.
Additionally, Puerto de la Cruz is known for the Loro Parque Zoo and its vibrant art scene. In La Orotava, interesting traditions such as Corpus Christi and the flower carpets are still preserved. Traditional music and dances, such as the “Isa” and the “Tajaraste”, are celebrated at popular festivals. Cultural events and festivals reflecting the rich heritage of the Canary Islands and its people are frequent.
Matanza de Acentejo
A must-visit: come and discover the beautiful villages in the north of Tenerife
In this article, we have given you even more reasons to visit the island of Tenerife, so start planning your next trip now. We suggest some of the best accommodations in northern Tenerife to make your experience even better, whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple, or with family or friends.
