Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz, one of Tenerife's oldest tourist destinations, combines its elegant past with a youthful and relaxed atmosphere. Its location in the fertile Orotava Valley offers verdant landscapes, a mild climate, and a colorful coastline.

The heart of the town is Plaza del Charco, a tree-lined square with cafes and shops that serves as a spontaneous meeting point. Surrounding it is the old town, with cobblestone pedestrian streets, traditional buildings with Canarian balconies, and a growing selection of cafes, galleries, and urban art, especially in the La Ranilla neighborhood, where graffiti enlivens the facades.

One of the biggest attractions is Lago Martiánez, the work of artist César Manrique: a complex of saltwater pools connected to the sea, surrounded by sculptures, islands, and gardens that invite both sunbathing and swimming. Also worth a visit is the Archaeological Museum, which houses authentic Guanche pottery, mummies, and unique ritual figures that provide a better understanding of the island's original culture.

The Hermitage of San Telmo, built on volcanic lava on the seafront, and the Church of Peña de Francia, with its Mudejar interior and Baroque altarpieces, add a historic and spiritual character to the surroundings. Nearby, the Casona de San Fernando, with its gardens and 19th-century British architecture, reflects the influence of English travelers who settled in the valley during the 19th century.

In addition to its heritage, the port is a prime starting point for exploring the north: from here you can easily access La Orotava, Garachico, Masca, and Teide National Park. It's also an ideal base for whale-watching boat trips or astronomical tours to Mount Teide with specialized guides.

At night, the city maintains its charm: the liveliness revolves around the center and the seafront promenade, with quiet bars, live music, and a variety of activities for all tastes. During Carnival, every February, the city dresses up for a celebration with costumes, floats, and groups that fill the streets with joy.

Puerto de la Cruz is a destination that blends nature, leisure, and authenticity: a place where the tourism of yesteryear coexists with modern offerings, all bathed by the Atlantic.