Beyond the Tourist Trail: Experiencing Authentic Culture in Northern Tenerife

Relax on black sand beaches

Immerse yourself in the striking beauty of Northern Tenerife's black sand beaches. Created by the island's volcanic past, these beaches offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Spend the day relaxing at the picturesque Playa del Socorro, or explore other gems like Playa de Benijo or Playa El Bollullo, each with its own distinct charm.

Discover the beauty of Tenerife through hiking

For lovers of the outdoors, no trip to Tenerife is complete without a hike. Take in breathtaking views from the peak of Mount Teide. Enjoy a cable car ride to the top, where the trail to the summit awaits, or, for the ultimate challenge, hike the entire mountain starting at Playa del Socorro. If you want to summit Teide, you’ll need a permit to enter the trail. Hiking permits for Teide are highly sought-after, so book well in advance to avoid disappointment. If you can’t secure a hiking permit for the summit, have no fear! La Fortaleza is a trail near the top of Teide which doesn’t require a permit while still providing fantastic views. After you hike Teide, you can stay in the national park for stargazing. Teide has some of the least light pollution in the world, allowing you to catch thousands of stars with the naked eye. The Anaga nature park in the Northeast part of the island is also popular with numerous day hikes for the hiking lover. The trails vary in difficulty, so there are hikes for all hiking experiences. There are a plethora of other trails in Northern Tenerife, such as the Barranco Ruiz, Rambla de Castro or Barranco de los Cochinos.

Admire Tenerife’s historic architecture

Step back in time and explore the captivating legacy of Tenerife's colonial past by immersing yourself in the charm of meticulously preserved old towns. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Laguna boasts a treasure trove of colonial gems. Meander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with brightly colored houses adorned with intricate wooden balconies. Another architectural gem is the charming town of Villa de Orotava. This historic town, nestled amidst lush greenery, boasts a wealth of well-preserved colonial mansions with their distinctive wooden balconies and traditional Canarian courtyards. Explore the Casa de los Balcones, a captivating example of Canarian architecture, and marvel at its intricate wood carvings and vibrant colors. Another historic gem is Garachico, a quaint fishing village that exudes a unique charm with its volcanic black sand beach and colonial architecture weathered by centuries of sea salt and wind.

Delve into the heart of Tenerife's wine country

Lush volcanic soil and cooling Atlantic breezes provide the perfect setting for flourishing vineyards, each boasting a distinct character and story. Savor locally produced wines at Bodegas Tajinaste, a family-run gem nestled in the charming town of La Orotava. Sample their distinctive vintages, crafted with passion and generations of experience. You can also immerse yourself in the rich winemaking tradition at Bodegas Monje in El Sauzal. Embark on a guided tour, gaining insights into the intricate process. Extend your experience by enjoying their wines over a post-tour lunch. Alternatively, unleash your inner chef by participating in a hands-on workshop, learning to create the iconic Canarian "mojos," a flavorful sauce that complements any dish.

Cofradía Las Aguas - Restaurant overlooking the sea with great seafood and rice dishes. Highly recommend trying the boneless chicken and vegetable rice!

Restaurante Las Aguas - Seaside restaurant specializing in arroz caldoso.

La Bodeguita de Enfrente - A charming restaurant in an old Canarian house that serves fantastic Canarian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Their wines are excellent, too!

El Calderito de la Abuela - Run by the same owners as La Bodeguita de Enfrente, this restaurant has Canarian dishes with local ingredients. Advance reservations can help you secure a table with amazing views of the island!

Restaurante San Diego - Great food and wines with views of the ocean.

Restaurante Cafetería Mirador San Pedro - This restaurant is perched on a hill overlooking the ocean, very close to Playa del Socorro. They have excellent food and wine, and they are open later than many restaurants in the area.

Restaurante Haydée - Michelin-Starred restaurant by chef Víctor Suárez with globally inspired tasting menus using seasonal, local ingredients.