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Tenerife, the largest island of the Canary Islands, is one of the most attractive and popular tourist destinations in the world. Its unique nature, mixing the force of the Teide volcano with the lush greenery of the Anaga Park, makes it an ideal destination for all types of travellers. The island has a rich gastronomy, and the reputation of its certified wines has gone from strength to strength in recent years.

From north to south, la isla chicharrera, as it is popularly known, offers us stunning landscapes, hidden gems and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. To make sure you don’t miss any of the island’s most beautiful villages, we have prepared this short list for you to help you make even more unforgettable memories during your trip.

Garachico

In the northwest of the island you will find the village of Garachico. Its rich architectural heritage dates from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and it was awarded the title of Cultural Interest in 1994 due to its conservation. On Garachico’s coastline, you find banana plantations alongside one of the area’s most popular attractions: the El Caletón natural pools. They were created in whimsical shapes after the eruption of the Trevejo volcano in 1706, and these natural pools bring together locals and tourists from all over the world to enjoy a refreshing swim.

One of the most significant buildings in Garachico is the Ponte House. It is a 17th century mansion which was owned by the Ponte family, the founders of Garachico. These days, the mansion has been refurbished and transformed into a beautiful hotel that still retains all of its original charm.

Another unmissable place is the San Miguel fortified castle, built in 1575 to defend the coast and the village.

Masca

If you’re looking for a little bit of Machu Pichu in Tenerife, then look no further than Masca. The winding road leading to the farmhouse is just the beginning for those who visit this breathtaking landscape. The houses in Masca are the essence of the rural architecture which is typical of the Canary Islands. The houses are 750 metres above sea level and are the perfect place to enjoy exceptional views of the island’s gorges and dramatic scenery. What makes this area so special is that this was once a famed hideaway for pirates due to its complex orography with craggy mountains and hidden nooks and crannies.

Taganana

In the north of the island, amidst an impressive green landscape, the village of Taganana awaits you. It is the most important village in the interior of the Anaga massif and is one of the oldest settlements on the island.

As you enter the town, the Taganana church is a must-visit, with its rich artistic heritage including sculptures, paintings and pieces of metal working. As you continue through the streets, you will find traditional houses that delight the eye and make for fantastic photos.

The landscapes surrounding the village are also incredible. Among many highlights are the Los Hombres rock elevations, the Risco de la Guayosa geological formations and the el Fraile and La Monja cliffs.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna

If there is one place you can’t miss on your tour through Tenerife, it is the university town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. The city was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999, and it is a unique example of a non-walled colonial city. One of its charms is its old quarter with cobbled streets, which has remained the same since the 16th century.

This village, which was the island’s first capital, has a humid climate, so don’t forget to carry an umbrella in the cooler months. Some of the places you simply must visit are the Cathedral of San Cristóbal, with an impressive neoclassical façade, the church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, with a 28-metre-high tower that deserves a photo, and the Plaza del Adelantado, a square with a marble fountain which has witnessed some of the city’s most historic moments.

Buenavista del Norte

On the Teno massif, at the westernmost point of the island, you will find Buenavista del Norte. The town’s name, meaning “good views over the north” is no coincidence, as this Canarian village boasts stunning views over the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Its historic centre, declared of Cultural Interest, will probably remind you of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, as these two settlements were the only two which were designed in an orderly manner before their construction.

We recommend a visit to Plaza de los Remedios, the most important square in the town which is surrounded by some of the most popular buildings, such as the Los Remedios church and the former Buenavista del Norte granary which has been transformed into the Municipal Library.

Categories: Canaries, Tenerife