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Garachico is one of the most beautiful towns in Tenerife, a charming fishing village with lots of character. Without a doubt, visiting Garachico is one of the best activities to do in north Tenerife. It’s also considered one of the most beautiful towns in Spain.
More than 300 years ago, the city of Garachico on Tenerife in the Canary Islands functioned as the primary location for trade, importing and exporting food between Europe and America. However, in 1706, the Arenas Negras Volcano erupted, burying much of the community and rendering the harbor unusable.
That talked about, the consumers of Garachico had a powerful wish to recuperate from this tragedy. As a result, this urban center is among one of the most iconic spots to check out in Tenerife these days.
If you’d like to learn further about the history of Garachico, this city tour is complimentary (it’s in Spanish). If you don’t speak Spanish or prefer exploring independently, here are the top 10 things to do in Garachico, Tenerife.
Table of Contents
1. El Caletón, a lovely natural pool in Garachico, Tenerife
Our budget ranged from 1 to 15 € per meal. Of course, there are other more pricey options, but if you are traveling on a tight budget, you should consider about 10 € a day in terms of food.
Like I had stated, the Arenas Negras Volcano (also known as the Garachico Mountain), erupted in 1706. The eruption lasted 58 days and brought lava up to the coast, whereupon it solidified and molded these natural lagoons.
Spending time in this area is one of the finest activities to do in Garachico, potentially the whole island. Here, you`ll find security, stair access to pools, showers, and a snack stand. It serves as a superb spot for kids and adults alike to immerse in the deep blue water. Plus, you`ll take in spectacular Atlantic Ocean views, and visiting is free of cost.
2. Castle of San Miguel, a cool place to visit in Garachico, Tenerife
Right beside the natural pools at El Caletón, you’ll find another cool site: the Castle of San Miguel. Both areas share an important history with the volcanic eruption of 1706.
That year, nearly the entire town of Garachico was ruined, but the Castle of San Miguel famously survived. The castle, which was constructed in 1575, was intended to safeguard the town from pirates. However, across centuries, it became forgotten and gradually deteriorated. It wasn’t until 1959 that the City Council purchased it with plans to renovate it.
Today, the fortress is a protected site of Cultural Importance historical monument and houses the Heritage Facts Center and a museum. It’s open every day from 10 am – 6 pm and is a good place to gain more knowledge about the Arenas Negras Volcano’s impact on Garachico.
3. See the Roque de Garachico Natural Monument
Another activity to engage in while visiting Garachico on Tenerife is exploring the Roque de Garachico Natural Monument. This volcanic geological structure lies less than 1,000 feet from the coastline. Over the passage of time, erosion gradually isolated the basaltic formation more.
In 1987, it became designated as a Natural Area of National Importance for the Islet of Garachico. The tallest section of the monument surpasses 250 feet in elevation, and the structure represents significant ornithological interest. The Garachico coast offers opportunities to observe birds like the gray heron as well as other species such as Bulwer`s petrel and the band-rumped storm petrel.
4. Plaza de la Libertad, one of the top sites in Garachico, Tenerife
If you’re looking for something engaging to do in Garachico, I recommend visiting Plaza de la Freedom. The square’s original name was the Plaza de Santa Ana since it was attached to the church of an identical name, which I’ll discuss later.
Like numerous places in Garachico, Canary Islands, this plaza transformed after the volcanic eruption of 1706. In 1821, a new square was built called Plaza de la Constitución, and a wooden pavilion dedicated to Simón Bolivar was inaugurated in 1970.
You can come here to take a break and enjoy the beautiful buildings and greenery. Moreover, the plaza is a centerpiece of the town, so you’ll find a good number of restaurants and bars here.
5. Church of Santa Ana, the most beautiful church in Garachico, Tenerife
The Church of Santa Ana is a lovely temple to visit in Garachico. It was founded by Cristóbal de Ponte in 1520 but the Arenas Negras Volcano eruption caused devastation. It suffered serious damage but was later rebuilt according to the original architectural plans.
What stands out most is the sculpture representing Christ`s mercy (Santísimo Cristo de la Misericordia), which was made by indigenous Mexicans at the end of the 16th century. It’s known as a “corn Christ”, or a representation of Jesus Christ made with a technique that uses the inner part of crushed maize cane. It’s an impressive sight, and something you must visit in Garachico.
You can visit the church and its museums any day of the week since it’s accessible in the mornings and afternoons.
6. Visit the Puerto de Tierra, another thing to do in Garachico
The Puerta de Tierra is a lovely park in Garachico adjacent to the Plaza Juan González de la Torre. It originally bordered the water but was pushed inland by a volcanic eruption.
Today, you are still able to see the opening of the entrance door from the 16th century through which you could enter the old port of Garachico. You can also see the old wine press from the Hacienda de San Juan Degollado and a small space dedicated to poet Rafael Alberti from the Generation of ‘27 who visited Garachico in 1991.
7. Hermitage of San Roque, another temple to see in Garachico, Tenerife
If you visit Garachico on August 16th, you cannot miss the San Roque Pilgrimage. It celebrates the Hermitage of San Roque, a Catholic church linked to the bubonic plague that devastated the town between 1601 and 1606.
Some believe that the temple was built as a plea to God to end the plague. Moreover, San Roque is the patron saint of those affected by plague and cholera, so he’s a fitting saint for the temple.
Today, the hermitage is renowned as the epicenter of the San Roque Pilgrimage, a major annual event designated a Festival of National Tourist Interest.
Individuals from all over the island of Tenerife and the Canary Islands come here to observe the residents of Garachico carry the representation of the saint from the Church of Santa Ana to the Hermitage of San Roque. They’re accompanied by a musical group, herds of animals, and festivities, so participating in the event is one of the top things to do in Garachico.
8. See the Convento de Concepcionistas Franciscanas & the Convent of San Francisco
The Convent of the Franciscan Conceptionists is a structure that has survived all kinds of catastrophes, yet remains well worth visiting in Garachico, Tenerife. Initially, raging lava from the 1706 eruption of the Arenas Negras Volcano engulfed it. A few years later, a fire devastated the interior, and in 1856, damage occurred from storms at sea. In spite of all these disasters, it continues to stand proudly, so I suggest seeing it while one still can!
Of course, this isn’t the only convent to see in Garachico. The Convent of San Francisco, which currently functions as the House of Culture, is a beautiful two-story structure worth visiting. It also includes the Public Library, the Municipal Archive, and a small science museum with three permanent exhibits on Garachico’s geological history. You can visit in the morning and afternoon from Monday to Saturday.
9. See the Muelle de Garachico, a fun thing to do in Garachico
The Port of Garachico was constructed following the 1706 volcanic eruption, and viewing it is something that must be done in Garachico, Tenerife. As mentioned earlier, the port was an important area in the 17th and 18th centuries but was destroyed after the volcanic eruption.
Today, there is a small area where fishing vessels can be seen, as well as the Muelle de Garachico pier. Located at the end of the pier, this minimalist Tensei Tenmoku sculpture is a work by Japanese artist Kan Yasuda. Its name suggests “Door Without a Door” and the design comprises two marble pieces on the breakwater. Ideally, it should be observed from afar so the way the pieces overlap can be seen.
Spending time to see it is an enjoyable activity to engage in in Garachico because there is a serene black sand shoreline here. It’s approximately 200 feet long and, while there aren’t any bars, there is a lifeguard, changing area, and shower.
10. Monumento al Motín del Vino, a curious thing to see in Garachico, Tenerife
Finally, on Avenida Adolfo Suárez, you’ll find the Monumento al Motín del Vino ( Monument to the Wine Rebellion), a significant site in Garachico. It represents the struggle of Canarian growers against the English monopoly on wine production.
That time came to a head in 1666 with an assault on the warehouses at the port of Garachico. Realizing they wouldn`t be able to sell the stored products, the producers from the Canary Islands opted to ruin them. It`s said that Garachico was overflowed by rivers of wine!
The commemorative monument was crafted by Luis Montull, a sculptor from the Canary Islands. Standing over 15 feet tall, it was made from white Carrara marble and lava from the volcanic flows in the local area.
Where to stay in Garachico, Tenerife
If you’re seeking among the finest hotels in Garachico, Tenerife, I’ll advise that we stayed at the Hotel La Quinta Roja. Its location is in the Plaza de la Libertad, so it’s within walking distance of everything available. We had previously viewed photos of the hotel but residing there tells a different story! After all, sleeping in a historic 16th-century mansion isn’t something accomplished every day. We particularly appreciated the wooded ceilings, the lush courtyard gardens, and the buffet, so don’t hesitate to stay here if you have the ability.
An additional suitable choice is the Gara Hotel, an oceanfront accommodation possessing a rooftop terrace providing direct access to the natural pools of El Caletón and positioned a brief stroll from the Castle of San Miguel. The hotel is located in an 18th-century rural dwelling and retains its original hardwood floors. Furthermore, services such as massages, vehicle rentals, and bicycle rentals are available in addition to activities like scuba diving, hiking, and paragliding.
If you want to stay in other parts of the island, we have a comprehensive guide on where to remain in Tenerife.
Where to eat in Garachico, Tenerife
You can sample the best meals in the Canary Islands at top notch eateries in Garachico, Tenerife. One of the best options The Rebojo | Bocados de Mar y Vinos, which we consider one of the highest rated restaurants in Tenerife. Also, I propose Cañada de Garachico Espacio Gastronómico, which serves homemade dishes at a fair price. If possible, book a table on the patio, where you can savor an exceptional meal facing the natural pools.
Regarding views, you should also check out the Mirador de Garachico. Here, you can order a quality Canarian wine and, if you have a sweet tooth, the smoked cheesecake. You won’t be disappointed!
Another low-cost eatery in Garachico, Tenerife that you’ll appreciate is Tasca Restaurante Los Pinos. The local cuisine here is excellent and the value for the price can’t be surpassed.
Map of Garachico, Tenerife
Finally, here is a map of Garachico, Tenerife containing all the places I recommended.
That wraps it up for me. If you want to share your favorite activities to engage in in Garachico, or you have any questions, leave me a comment below. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
