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Two of my preferred hiking trails in the area are the Goldstrike Hot Springs Trail and the Fire Wave Trail, which is ranked among the top walks at the Valley of Fire. I strongly advise venturing away from the Strip and enjoying the natural scenery offered by this state park. Furthermore, a walk could make for a budget-friendly way to celebrate a stag do in Vegas.
We spent a day here during our trip to Tenerife and, honestly, that gave us enough time to explore the cobbled streets and view the main attractions in the historic center.
To make optimal use of our available time, we participated in this complimentary guided tour (accessible in English and Spanish). That noted, you’ll be fine exploring the town independently as I`m outlining the top 10 things to do in La Orotava.
Table of Contents
1. Visit La Casa de Los Balcones, the best thing to do in La Orotava, Tenerife
The first item on your list of what to see in La Orotava is the renowned Casa de Los Balcones (House of Balconies). It`s considered the most significant example of old Canarian architecture, so it`s worth a visit.
The House of Balconies was constructed by an influential local family in the 17th century. The facade has three levels, but the most notable aspect is the series of balconies. There is also a carved interior courtyard where you can see many native plants.
Nowhere else in La Orotava, Spain combines architecture, history, tradition, folklore and crafts as comprehensively. Visiting here transports you back in time, whether as a family, couple or group. Entry is gratis for children and $6 for adults, though I suggest booking tickets in advance since access is limited.
2. Plaza de la Constitución, one of the top sites in La Orotava
The Plaza de la Constitución is one of the most beautiful places to see in La Orotava, Tenerife. Its name pays tribute to the Spanish Constitution of 1812, and before that, it was called the Llano de San Roque since it’s near the Hermitage of San Roque.
The plaza is also known as Pavilion Square, and its central pavilion is lovely. It was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century in the pneumudéjar style for municipal band performances. From this square, you can also see the Liceo Taoro, another interesting place in La Orotava that I`ll point out next.
3. Liceo Taoro, another place in La Orotava, Tenerife that you’ll love
If you’re not sure what activities are available in La Orotava, check out the Liceo Taoro. It was constructed in 1928 and is now a focal point for the town’s cultural events.
Since 1975, it has served as the headquarters of the Liceo de Taoro Cultural Society. Here, you can see the Polyphonic Choir and take guitar classes.
The Liceo Taoro also serves as a space for art exhibits, concerts, and conferences in La Orotava. Besides cultural activities, the building includes athletic amenities like tennis courts and swimming pools. That said, if you’re just passing through, check out the terrace café for a drink and garden views.
4. Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, a beautiful thing to see in La Orotava
Next to the Liceo Taoro and the Plaza de la Constitución, you’ll find the Gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja. Visiting this lovely area is a wonderful thing to do in La Orotava as a couple.
This iconic garden contains seven terraces full of flowers that form a landscape descending toward the sea. It`s a unique site in the Canary Islands and all of Spain, which is the reason the gardens have been declared a culturally significant asset.
This site has an intriguing origin story. Don Diego de Ponte, the Marquis de la Quinta Roja, and a mason were forbidden from burial in the holy cemetery. Therefore, his mother, the Marchioness Doña Sebastiana del Castillo, had the gardens constructed as the final resting place for Don Diego.
At the top of the gardens stands a marble mausoleum imported from Lyon. While the marquis wasn’t buried there, it remains a modern symbol against religious intolerance.
Beyond the stories told, this garden remained my preferred sight in La Orotava. What`s more, it sits just a 5-minute walk from the free Hijuela del Botánico Gardens containing a 200-year-old dragon tree.
5. Church of Our Lady of the Conception, another place to visit in La Orotava, Tenerife
The Church of Our Lady of the Conception located in La Orotava, Tenerife is a temple that should be seen. It’s considered the finest example of Baroque art in the Canary Islands and dates back to 1516.
Indeed, the church has been recognised as a National Monument since 1948, making it an area of significance, particularly for those keen on architecture and art. The centrepiece of the sanctuary is its dome, which drew inspiration from the main hall of Florence Cathedral in Italy.
This magnificent crimson dome can be spotted towering above other buildings from viewpoints all around town, signifying its visual dominance of the cityscape. Both its dome structure and façade exterior are worth exploring.
6. Casa Lercaro, something else you must visit in La Orotava
Casa Lercaro is an old 17th-century manor that you must see in La Orotava. This charming 54,000 square foot space combines history with modern aspects, and it stands out for its architecture and gardens.
This location is so picturesque that many production firms film commercials here. One of the best aspects of Casa Lercaro’s architecture is the interior courtyard, which has a restaurant serving Canarian and Mediterranean cuisine. So, if you’d like to unwind with some good local wine and cuisine, check out this restaurant in La Orotava!
7. La Orotava Town Hall, another cool place to see in La Orotava, Tenerife
The Town Hall of La Orotava, Tenerife represents a primary site of interest you should explore. Reflecting the neoclassical architectural style, it was conceived by the architects Maffiotte and Manuel de Oráa.
That said, what truly stands out about the Town Hall is the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, which formerly belonged to the convent of San José until the 19th century. During the celebrations of Corpus Christi, which commonly occur in June, the 9,700ft2 plaza is lavishly decorated with religious symbols crafted from flowers and volcanic sand from the Cañadas del Teide.
If you’re visiting Tenerife during this time period, don’t miss this happening. The natural carpet of blooms and natural sand are deemed an Asset of Cultural Importance and hold the renowned Guinness record for the largest floral carpet globally.
8. Visit a banana plantation, an amazing thing to do in La Orotava
One of the well-known aspects of the Canary Islands is its vast banana creation. In La Orotava, you’ll have the ability to witness firsthand how the Canarian environment works its mystery by going to a banana plantation.
This excursion in La Orotava provides fun, especially for children. During the tour (which costs half for kids), you’ll gain knowledge about the difference between a plantain and a banana, and the steps included in Canarian banana development, from planting to marketing.
You’ll also gain an understanding of the qualities of the Canarian banana, the only variety of banana that has accomplished the Protected Geographical Indication seal. And of course, you’ll end the tour with a tasting and a shot made with this fruit, so it’s an experience that`ll leave a good flavor in your mouth!
9. Molino de Gofio La Máquina, a cultural place to visit in La Orotava
Gofio is a staple food of the Canary Islands made from roasted grain flour, and in Canarian cuisine, it`s extensively utilized in desserts and stews. It also serves as the key ingredient in dishes like gofio escaldado and gofio paella.
To this day, you can still find gofio mills throughout the area of La Orotava, and touring these mills is a great way to learn more about the town’s culinary history. After the conquest of Tenerife, the town developed around these mills and their aqueducts.
The La Máquina gofio mill, whose name comes from being the first traditional mill to use turbines, is something you must see in La Orotava. It dates back to 1634 and received the 10th Villa de La Orotava Heritage Craft Award in 2008.
10. Ibero-American Craft Museum of Tenerife, a must-see in La Orotava
Should you remain uncertain about activities in La Orotava, I propose exploring the Ibero-American Craft Museum of Tenerife situated in the prior monastery of San Benito Abad which displays handicrafts from Ibero-America like the Canary Islands.
Here, you’ll uncover some engaging things like the “Popular Art in American and the Philippines” collection and widely known instruments from Spain and America. You’ll moreover witness the renowned Spanish alferería, a traditional method of pottery.
Where to stay in La Orotava, Tenerife
If you want to remain overnight, there are some wonderful lodging options in La Orotava, such as the Hotel Rural Orotava. The style of décor is very typical of the Canary Islands region, and as it`s located in La Orotava`s oldest town, it is surrounded by mountains. The hotel restaurant is on the patio and serves home-cooked meals made with traditional recipes and local wines. You can also explore the hotel`s cellar, which retains its stone flooring of the old stables.
Another traditional accommodation in La Orotava is the Hotel Rural Victoria. Situated between sea and mountains, this residence dating from the 16th century is located in the historic area of Villa Monumental de La Orotava. The property`s original architecture and facilities have been carefully restored, with 13 double rooms and a single suite available. Be sure to reserve ahead given the small room count.
Finally, the Hotel Alhambra is an elegant building with an outdoor pool, sauna, spacious rooms, and satellite television. There is also a game area with board games and TV, so it’s a good accommodation in La Orotava for children. For the adults, there is free tea and coffee available throughout the day.
Where to eat in La Orotava
If you’re looking for a place to sample traditional Canarian cuisine, reserve a table at Bar Los Castillos, one of the best restaurants in Tenerife. Not only is it one of the most popular restaurants in La Orotava, but it’s also reasonably priced. The homemade dishes there are carefully prepared, and the atmosphere is very pleasant.
The Haydée Restaurant elevates the dining experience and offers a sensory delight. The menu is exquisite, as seen in the tasting menu which we selected, though it carries a higher price tag.
Another top-rated spot to dine in La Orotava is Bar La Duquesa. While we didn’t eat here, the menu appears to offer good selections if you want to sample traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas with mojo or a fine Canarian stew.
La Orotava map
To simplify things for you, here is a map of La Orotava with all the spots and activities to partake in in La Orotava that I brought up.
That’s all from me! If you still have questions about what can be seen in La Orotava, or you’d like to make a recommendation, leave me a comment. Until then, enjoy your trip!
