Puerto de la Cruz – Culture, Coast and Nature

In the historic centre of Puerto de la Cruz, a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Historic Complex category was placed under protection in 2006. It comprises more than 140 protected buildings. El Durazno also belongs to the town.El Durazno.

Culture

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category. Its three naves are separated by Tuscan-Roman columns and round-arched arcades; they are complemented by wooden Mudéjar coffered ceilings. The Ermita de San Telmo, which is also protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural, stands at one end of the seafront promenade on the Roca de la Caleta, on an Atlantic cliff.

Lago Martiánez was inaugurated in 1977. César Manrique designed the complex as an emerald-shaped lake with several islands; the central island is used for cultural, festive and leisure activities. Lago Martiánez is also protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Historic Garden category.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Eduardo Westerdahl was established in 1953 as a pioneering initiative in the history of Spanish contemporary art. It presents 20th-century Canarian art, including works by Óscar Domínguez, César Manrique, Manolo Millares, Juan Ismael, Lola Massieu and Pedro González. The educational visits combine an introduction to the context of the Casa de la Aduana, a guided explanation of the collection and a workshop or related activity.

The Museo Arqueológico is located in a 19th-century Canarian house in the fishing district of La Ranilla. Its holdings include pottery made by the indigenous Canarians, mummified remains and maps from the 17th century; thematic exhibitions also explore the history and culture of the Canary Islands. The night of San Juan in Puerto de la Cruz is characterised by symbolic bonfires and a festive atmosphere by the sea.

Nature

Playa Jardín was created on the coast of San Felipe with paths, gardens featuring Canarian plants, waterfalls and rocky caves. The Jardín Botánico de La Orotava was founded in 1788 by royal decree of King Charles III.

The Jardín Botánico de La Aclimatación de La Orotava contains an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plants from different continents, including large trees, palms and exotic ornamental plants. There, you can walk among plants from different continents. The Parque de Taoro covers around 100,000 square metres and offers gardens, walking paths, viewpoints, illuminated fountains and waterfalls. It consists of three main areas: La Atalaya, the Camino de La Sortija and the Jardines de Taoro.

Loro Parque operates a free train through Puerto de la Cruz from Plaza de los Reyes Católicos; departures take place every 20 minutes. From Monday to Sunday, Loro Parque welcomes visitors in Puerto de la Cruz and describes itself as an animal reserve with more than 400 species.

Geographical location

In the wider regional surroundings of Puerto de la Cruz are the Valle de la Orotava and Teide, which can be visited as natural landscapes.

For the higher-level travel overview: Tenerife.

More destinations

More places at the same destination:

Los Abrigos, Los Carrizales, La Victoria De Acentejo, El Fraile, Arico, Las Cruces, Puertito de Güímar.