LA OROTAVA TENERIFE: HOW TO VISIT THIS ATTRACTIVE TOWN Global Gadding

The old town of La Orotava Tenerife, is packed with charm, a deep sense of history and stunning architecture. A visit to La Orotava should definitely be one of the places included on your north Tenerife Itinerary.

Wander the delightful cobbled streets, be in awe of classic Canarian architecture and discover why wealthy merchants built their mansions in this endearing town.

Follow our complete guide to this historic place and find out all the best things to see in La Orotava Tenerife.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN LA OROTAVA TENERIFE

La Orotava is one of the best towns in Tenerife for simply wandering around. Located in La Orotava Valley, the best way to discover its historic centre, is on foot.

Villa de La Orotava is the only town in the Canary Islands with an almost entirely intact historical centre. La Orotava Spain, is a true jewel for those who love art, beauty and history.

A visit to this attractive town is considered to be one of the best things to do in North Tenerife.

When you visit La Orotava, you can’t fail to perceive the fragments of its historical past as you walk along its streets. The wonderfully kept traditional houses, gives the atmosphere a somewhat stately air.

Read on to discover the best La Orotava things to do and see, all of which are marked on the La Orotava map below.

LA OROTAVA TENERIFE MAP OF SIGHTS

1. CASA DE LOS BALCONES

balcony houses in La Orotava — The wooden carved balconies are stunning

Address: San Francisco, 3, 38300 La Orotava
Open: Monday to Friday 08:30 – 18:30 / Saturday and Sunday 09:00 – 18:30

At the top of San Francisco Street, the stunning architecture of the traditional styled buildings, gives you a real sense of the riches that once marked this town.

The most famous of these buildings is Casa Méndez Fonseca, known as ‘Casa de los Balcones’ (The house of the balconies).

The impressive façade has three floors, the top floor being crowned with a continuous balcony with a carved tea tree. Nine wood windows, are framed with plant motifs, and above the central window, in carved stone, is the coat of arms of the Fonseca house (1715).

The historic 17th-century Canarian townhouse has been turned into a cultural museum, filled with unique local art and traditional handcrafts exhibits.

Historically, the building was associated with lace making on the island. For a small cost, you can step inside to get a glimpse of what life was like for the 17th-century family. The upstairs period rooms take you on a journey through time, to experience the Canarian uses and customs of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Things to look out for include:

The beautiful patio with tall columns of tea wood, with stone pedestals. Floral motifs on the paneling and carved Corinthian capitals are truly impressive.
The majestic balcony in the interior patio is incredible, especially as the construction was carried out by hand by master carpenters from the area.
Two of the most widely used craft techniques in the Canary Islands, are the fretwork and rosette. The gift shop has great embroidery and lace items to purchase, shown by staff in traditional costume.

Other notable buildings to look at include Casa del Turista, located opposite Casa de los Balcones. Also known as Casa Molina, (Tourists’ house) the building is characterized by Its portico of late-Renaissance design along its façade.

Further up the road on the right, is the Hospital de la Santisima Trinidad. The courtyard’s main door, has a revolving drum. Babies would be abandoned through this, to be cared for by the hospital’s nuns.

Located next door to Casa de los Balcones, built in 1632, is the house of Jiménez Francy, now housing the Museum of Flower Carpets (Museo de las Alfombras) and the Wine Guild’s headquarters.

The small carpet museum gives you a glimpse of the flower and sand carpets made during the 8 days celebration of Corpus Christi. (End of May/beginning of June)

Address: Calle de San Francisco 5
Hours: Monday to Friday 10am-2pm
Cost: 2 Euros

Buy Your House of Balcones Entrance Ticket:

Another attractive town not to miss is La Laguna, which also has mansions with beautiful balconies, and should be on your Tenerife Itinerary.

2. JARDINES MARQUESADO DE LA QUINTA ROJA (JARDIN VICTORIA)

Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja

Address: Plaza de la Constitución

Also known as the Jardin Victoria, these formal gardens are a delight to stroll around. With nearby Liceo de Taoro, this is a lovely area of La Orotava to explore.

The free public gardens were laid out in the 19th century and displayed in 7 stepped terraces. The Marchioness of la Quinta Roja’s son was a member of the Masons, and on his death, this membership precluded his burial on consecrated land, in the family vault.

So, a mausoleum made of marble, was built in a garden so the body of Diego Ponte del Castillo, could be laid to rest. This was 1880, and the shame that would have been brought on the family was immense.

As it turns out, permission was eventually granted to bury his body in the family vault, and the mausoleum was never used. Today, the building adds an air of mystery to these attractive gardens, with their well laid-out pathways, fountains and flowers.

Grab a coffee and cake at Casa Egon and enjoy the wonderful views across the town towards the ocean.

If you prefer a wilder looking garden, just beyong Jardin Victoria is Hijuela del Botánico.

3. TOWN HALL (AYUNTAMIENTO) AND TOWN HALL SQUARE

La Orotava Town Hall and Square — La Orotava Tenerife Town Hall

Address: Carrera del Escultor Estévez, 1

The current town hall building, designed in 1869 after completed in 1895, is an imposing Neo-Classical design. Among its most striking features is the tympanum decorated with the town’s coat of arms in relief, surrounded by the symbols of agriculture, justice, history and teaching.

The square it overlooks is one of the town’s most popular meeting points. A number of events and fairs are hosted here during the year. If you are lucky enough to be here during Corpus Christi, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable sight.

During festivities for the patron saint, more than 900 m2 become the canvas for the monumental tapestry made of volcanic sands from Cañadas del Teide, and carpets of flowers.

4. CHURCH OF SAN AGUSTIN

Church of San Agustin in La Orotava, Tenerife

Address: 2 San Agustín Street, Plaza de la Constitución

Sitting comfortably in the Plaza de le Constitución, is the church and former monastery of San Agustin. Work on the catholic church began in 1671 and completed in 1694. The most renowned craftsmen of the time worked in its construction.

Today, the building is occupied by San Agustín Cultural Centre, but is still recognized for its grandeur and beauty.

Expropriated from the Augustine Monastery of Nuestra Señora de Gracia in the 19th century, it was used as a military base for the infantry.

Built over the old Chapel of San Roque, the church has a stunning wood ceiling, attractive retable, and three naves. A 17th century Portuguese figure of Nuestra Señora de Gracia, presides over a wonderful main chapel.

5. PLAZA DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN

Plaza de la Constitucion Tenerife — A lovely area to sit, eat, drink and relax

Located opposite the Liceo de Taoro and the church of San Agustín, this square was built over a flat stretch of land known as Llano de San Roque and became an important public meeting place.

The square received its current name after the approval of the Spanish Constitution in 1812. It’s central pavilion is an ideal space to sit with a coffee.

It is fondly known by locals as Plaza del Kiosco, after the Neo-Mudejar style kiosk that was installed there in 1916. The whole area is a lovely place to wander, sit and enjoy drinks from the several eateries, or catch a band performance.

From here, you can easily explore Liceo Taoro and the church of San Agustin.

6. LICEO DE TAORO

Address: Plaza de la Constitución | Website

This grand town palace was built in 1928 and home to the Ascanio family. It’s enviable position on a hilltop overlooks much of La Orotava Valley, and the coastal area of Puerto de la Cruz.

Built to eclecticist guidelines, the palace-like appearance both inside and out is monumental in proportion. The surrounding gardens both enhance and softenits appearance.

Since 1975, it has been the home of the prestigious Sociedad Cultural Liceo de Taoro (Taoro Lyceum Cultural Society. With sports facilities, tennis courts and a swimming pool, it makes a great space to hold art exhibitions, concerts and conferences.

For a touch of elegance and great views, enjoy a drink in the terrace cafe.

7. IGLESIA DE NUESTRA SENORA DE LA CONCEPCIÓN

La Orotava's main church — Inside La Orotava’s main church

Address: Plaza Casañas, 38300 La Orotava

The red dome of the Church of La Concepción can be seen from many parts of the town, making it a poignant viewpoint.

The parish church has suffered considerable damage since building began in 1498, but today, is considered the best piece of Baroque architecture in the Canary Islands.

Declared a National Historic Monument in 1948, there are plenty of features to admire. Outside, the Baroque three-fronted façade features elaborate stonework, and three 24m-high bell towers.

Wander inside and you will find an amazing array of artifacts, golden cups, procession silverware, chasubles, statues, and more.

The main chapel has a Genoese tabernacle made of marble and jasper, designed by Giuseppe Gaggini in 1823. There is a profusion of intricately carved woodwork and gorgeous stained glass windows.

You can check mass schedules or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. If you would like to take a guided tour around the Museum Of Sacred Art, these are offered Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am-1pm.

8. CASA LERCARO

Address: C/ Colegio

This 17th century historic stately mansion has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. With windows and balconies featuring elaborate woodwork, and a façade adorned with sgraffito latticework the building is beautiful.

Look closely and you’ll see that the central balcony is made of wrought iron and adorned with plant-like motifs. The family coat of arms, set in marble, tops the third floor window.

The lovely charming patio with Corinthian pillars and a restored mill, houses a wonderful restaurant, serving tradition and Mediterranean cuisine, and specializing in seafood.

Unsurprisingly, the building is used by numerous production companies for filming and advertising.

Restaurant Hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10:00am – 10:00pm) and Sunday (11:00am – 5:00pm)

OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN LA OROTAVA

If you have more time to spend in this incredible town, here are some more suggestions for things to see:

Latin American Craft Museum of Tenerife – located in a 17th-century convent with a large collection of handicrafts like ceramics, glass & needlework.
Centro de Visitantes Telesforo Bravo – located at Calle Dr. Sixto Perera Gonzalez,25. This visitor centre has an interesting museum about volcanic Tenerife and it’s flora and fauna It’s a great place to find more information about Tenerife and general Tenerife travel advice. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9am-2pm and 3.30pm-6pm.
The church of San Juan Bautista – located at Plaza de San Juan, has a single nave forming a Latin cross, with a distinct Portuguese influence.

WHERE IS LA OROTAVA IN TENERIFE?

La Orotava town is located near the north coast in northern Tenerife. The municipality covers a large area, including the north coast, a vast part of Teide National Park and Mount Teide itself.

The Historic Quarter or old town, at an altitude of 400m in the Orotava Valley, was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1976.

As La Orotava is high above sea level, its streets are steep but manageable. When you arrive, be sure to pop into the visitor center and grab a map, which shows you all the historical places in town.

Otherwise, as you walk around you will see well marked plaques outside sites.

HOW TO GET TO LA OROTAVA, TENERIFE

The town is approximately 4 km southeast of Puerto de la Cruz and 28 km southwest of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital. The TF-5 motorway passes through the north of the municipality, making it easy to reach by car.

Puerto de La Cruz to La Orotava – there are multiple bus (Guagua) options including Lines 345, 350, 352, and 353
Santa Cruz de Tenerife to La Orotava – use bus lines 107, 108 and 101.

Download a map with the location of free and paid car parks in Villa de La Orotava

SELECTION OF LA OROTAVA RESTAURANTS

selection of pastries in a bakery — Delicious selection of pastries at Panadería Relieve

Bar Los Castillos – family run offering homemade dishes.
Panadería Relieve – delicious pastries, cakes, sandwiches and more to take out or enjoy inside with a coffee.
Casa Lercaro – wonderful setting.
Restaurante Dios los cria… y el viento los amontona – good location with terrace and local dishes.
Tasca Villera – serves Mediterranean, European, and Spanish dishes.
Bar La Duquesa – traditional Canarian dishes such as stew.

LA OROTAVA HOTELS AND HOLIDAY HOMES

While you can easily visit La Orotava as part of day trips from Puerto de La Cruz Tenerife and Santa Cruz, why not stay overnight and really immerse yourself into this beautiful town.

Below are some options that you could consider:

HOTEL RURAL VICTORIA: located in the old quarter, this wonderfully restored 16th-century mansion maintains its original architecture, whilst offering updated facilities. With just 14 rooms, book early so you can enjoy the great roof terrace views.
HOTEL RURAL OROTAVA: a beautiful old Canaria residence whose rooms are lovingly restored with original furniture. The old wine cellar offers a peek at a former stable, while the lovely patio is a great place to sample traditional, home-made Canarian cuisine. Located in the centre of the old town, this is an ideal mid-range budget hotel.
PENSION SILENE OROTAVA: enjoying a great location in the historic old town, this friendly 19th-century family run town house is a great budget option. Enjoy a glass of wine in the evening in the serene courtyard.
THE VALLEY VIEW APARTMENT: this air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. Brand new apartment, located in the middle of La Orotava Valley.

If you prefer to stay in your own self-catering accommodation, check out these stunning Tenerife Villas for something special.

La Orotava Tenerife was one of our favourite towns to explore on our Tenerife Itinerary. With the lack of big tour buses it was wonderful to simply wander the cobbled streets and be transported back in time.

LA OROTAVA TENERIFE: HOW TO VISIT THIS ATTRACTIVE TOWN