Garachico, Tenerife, Canary Islands
Garachico is a pretty town on the north west coast of Tenerife. Here you can stay in boutique hotels set in historic buildings and, apart from when the day-trippers are in town, relax in peace and quiet.
Garachico
A pretty little town of white buildings and red tiled roofs, Canarian wooden balconies and charming plazas. Having already been hit by volcanic landslides 60 years prior, the original port and parts of the town were destroyed by volcanic lava in 1706 terminating its wealthy position as the island's main port for wine imports. The town's history puts it firmly on the tourist trail and has a number of historic landmarks.
Read more about: Beaches | Things to Do | Out and About | Nearby Attractions | Garachico Reviews
Beaches
There is a small dark sand shingle beach at Garachico but the well known rock pools are by far the more popular choice. Formed by the lava flow from the eruptions of centuries past, the pools are of different depths and, on a calm day, are great for swimming and snorkelling. The pools are accessed by proper steps and interlinked with sunbathing areas - don't forget your water-shoes.
Things to Do
Between the rock pools and the new harbour for yachts and fishing boats, you will find an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace overlooking the sea, a tennis court and a multi-sports court.
To the opposite side of rock pools, you can see the Castillo San Miguel which escaped the flow of the molten lava and still stands strong. Head up to the ramparts for great views.
Out and About
Relax under the shade of a tree in Liberty Square and watch the locals engaging in their daily social activities. The square is home to the historic Santa Ana Church and the San Francisco convent which now houses a small museum.
The Plaza de Ajabo is home to the Puerta de Tierra which, prior to the devastating lava flow, was the toll gate to the original port of Garachico and, is now the only remaining piece. Here you can also sit in the lovely park gardens and see the old wine press.
There are many choices for dining in the town including bars, tapas bars, bistros and fish restaurants, particularly along the waterfront and around the plazas. Many of the shops cater to the sight-seeing day visitors and offer a wide choice of handicrafts and Canarian souvenirs.
Nearby Attractions
Los Silos is a charming and picturesque little town of cobbled streets with a pretty church, a quaint plaza complete with bandstand and is just 10 minutes drive from Garachico. A 10 minute drive in the opposite direction will take you to the pretty little town of Icod de los Vinos where you can see the famous thousand year old drago tree and visit the Mariposario butterfly centre.
Tenerife Resorts
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