Visiting La Orotava
La Orotava sits in the northern reaches of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Nestled at the foot of the 3,718-meter Teide volcano, the town preserves a strong colonial architectural heritage, defined by ornate churches and historic mansions fronted by intricate wooden balconies. The old town was designated a national historical and artistic site in 1976. Surrounded by banana plantations, the area maintains a distinct Canarian character.
A classic Canary Islands village
La Orotava remains one of the best places in the Canary Islands to see the footprint left by the early conquistadores. If you want to dive into local heritage, head to the Casa de la Cultura on the place de la Constitución, which sits right next to the San Agustín church. Take time to admire the 17th-century mansions, the most famous of which is the Casa de los Balcones. Built in 1632, it features multiple levels of balconies and a central patio framed by high columns, a hallmark of colonial design. Continue your walk along Calle San Francisco to find other notable examples, including the Casa de los Monteverde and the Casa Lercaro.
If you time your visit correctly, you can witness one of the most significant traditions on the island of Tenerife, the floral carpets created for Corpus Christi. These massive, temporary murals are crafted from volcanic sand and flower petals, blanketing the streets of the village. To learn more about the technique, visit the Museo de las Alfombras.
Gardens and museums
La Orotava moves at a slow, deliberate pace. The terraced jardines Victoria offer expansive views over the town and the sea below. The town also features an acclimatization garden filled with tropical species like fuchsia and hibiscus, along with a Moreton Bay fig tree that is over 200 years old, known for its sprawling, photogenic aerial roots.
The cultural scene is substantial, featuring a 19th-century neoclassical town hall and the museo de l'artisanat espagnol et ibéro-américain, which is housed in a 17th-century convent.
Finally, La Orotava serves as an ideal base for hikers looking to explore the réserve naturelle de Pinoleris, the Corona Forestal natural park, the Costa de Acenjeto, or the Resbala area.
When to go?
The climate on the island of Tenerife is mild year-round, making it a viable destination in both winter and summer. If you want to see the Corpus Christi festivities, plan your trip for 60 days after Easter.
Getting there
Fly into Tenerife North airport, which is the closest terminal to La Orotava. From the airport, it is a 20-minute drive via the autoroute TF-5. If you are using public transit, take bus line 20 or 30 to the stop named Enlace Orotava.
