La Orotava
La Orotava is a town located in northern Tenerife, famous for its impressive historical heritage, traditional Canarian architecture, and stunning natural surroundings that stretch from the sea to the summit of Mount Teide. Its historic center has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site, renowned for its cobbled streets and stately mansions.
One of the great things about it is that, given its size, it’s possible to visit La Orotava in just 3 or 4 hours. The historic centre, its viewpoints and its natural surroundings make La Orotava one of the most interesting towns to visit in Tenerife.
Among the must-see places in La Orotava are:
- The historic centre of La Orotava, one of the most important in the Canary Islands.
- Casa de los Balcones, an iconic example of traditional Canarian architecture.
- The Marquesado de la Quinta Roja Gardens, with views of the valley and the ocean.
- The Church of La Concepción, one of the most notable churches in the north of Tenerife.
- The Orotava Valley, with its agricultural landscapes and natural viewpoints.
For parking, the most convenient option is to park in Orotava Centro; from there, you can explore the old town on foot. Many streets are pedestrianised or narrow, so it’s best to walk and leave your car in designated areas.
If you’re unsure what to expect in La Orotava, bear in mind that it’s a mix of historic mansions, Canarian courtyards, traditional windmills and gardens with views. A stroll through its steep streets will reward you with architectural details, local flavours and places steeped in history.
If you’re lucky enough to be on the island during the Corpus Christi celebrations (11 June), the streets of the historic centre are covered with stunning carpets of flower petals and a giant tapestry made from sand from Mount Teide in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
It is worth noting that this is Spain’s highest municipality, as its territory stretches from sea level right up to the very peak of Mount Teide, encompassing a large part of the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In short, it’s an absolute must-see on your trip to Tenerife.
