Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is the most popular resort town on Tenerife’s north coast, where the lush Orotava Valley meets the Atlantic Ocean. This former fishing village has kept its authentic Canarian character while offering beaches, gardens and attractions for every kind of traveller.

The heart of the town is its old quarter. Cafés and terraces line the Plaza del Charco, shaded by Indian laurel trees, fishing boats still set out from the little harbour, and the streets of the neighbouring La Ranilla district are covered in colourful murals. Don’t miss the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia and the town’s oldest building, the 17th-century Casa de la Real Aduana.

The Botanical Garden (Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava) was founded in 1788 by order of King Charles III of Spain to acclimatise tropical plants from the colonies before sending them on to Europe. Today you can wander among palms, giant fig trees and exotic flowers in its cool, shady paths.

Loro Parque is one of Tenerife’s top family attractions. Alongside one of the world’s largest parrot collections, it is home to dolphins, sea lions, penguins and many other animals.

The Agatha Christie Steps connect the upper La Paz district with the Martiánez seafront. They are named after the famous author, who stayed in the town in 1927. From the steps and the nearby Mirador de La Paz you get wonderful views over the ocean and the town.

Among the beaches, Playa Jardín is the largest: its black sand is framed by gardens and rocks designed by César Manrique, and it is ideal for families. Playa Martiánez is a favourite with surfers, while the small Playa de San Telmo sits right on the seafront promenade. For calmer water, head to Lago Martiánez, a seawater pool complex also designed by Manrique.

Tip: stroll through the old town and along the promenade at sunset, when the terraces fill up.