Visit Garachico
Garachico is on the island of Tenerife, one of the Western Canary Islands. Garachico is a pretty town on the north of Tenerife island in a pretty setting between the sea and the tree covered hills behind the town.
Explore Garachico
Spain This Way comment: Garachico is a charming town and a real pleasure to explore. It makes a good base for exploring the north of the island.
Garachico, Buenavista and Los Silos form what is known as the 'Low Isle' of Tenerife. Incredibly it is one of Tenerife's prettiest destinations. Incredibly because this town has suffered badly in the past. It has endured floods, storms, fires, plagues of locusts, bubonic plague and volcanic eruptions.
It was the principle port of Tenerife until a major eruption in 1706 obliterated its harbour. Puerto de Cruz then became the main port of the island.
However the Garachico of today has cobbled streets, historic buildings, palm trees, and a backdrop of the imposing Mount Teide. Wandering around Garachico is a real pleasure as historic buildings and lovely, traditional, colourfully painted Canary Island houses line the cobbled streets. The architecture has won the historic town a Gold Medal for Fine Arts.
The Plaza of La Libertad is the main square and with the Convent of San Roja, the Santa Ana church and other very attractive buildings is an excellent spot to stop and take in the atmosphere. The Santa Ana church has been beautifully restored as has the nearby church of Nuestra Senora de los Angeles. You can climb the bell tower of the Santa Ana church for a small fee and get some pretty views over the coast and town.
Garachico has a marina next to its historic centre and next to this is a rocky beach which is pleasant to explore. The natural rock pools are a big draw and very popular for swiming. These are sea water pools in the volcanic rock.
The castle of San Miguel sits on the waterfront and was built to defend against the pirates. It is one of the oldest buildings in Garachico and was built in the 16th century and survived the 1706 volcanic eruption. From here you get great views of the town and the bay with the massive Roque de Garachico emerging from the water.
Inside the castle is an exhibition of the towns's history and wildlife.
The seafront is the best place to head for for restaurants and obviously seafood abounds.
If you can, visit during the San Roja festival which has been declared a festival of 'National Tourist Interest. This takes place in August and all the locals dress in traditional costumes and travel in decorated carts pulled by oxen.
Where to visit nearby?
The mountain village of Masca is one of the loveliest villages of Tenerife and occupies a stunning position in the Teno Mountains.
The dragon tree is an unusual tree you will see all over the Canary Island and at nearby Icod de los Vinos you can see the oldest dragon tree on the Canary Islands.
You can find more local travel ideas in the Western Canary Islands guide.
Photos of Garachico
Click any picture to start the gallery
Map of Garachico and places to visit
Garachico places to visit
Icod de los Vinos
Icod de los Vinos has an attractive main square and the oldest dragon tree of the Canary Islands.
Icod de los Vinos guide
Masca
Masca is the most beautiful village on Tenerife. It is set in a stunning mountain location.
Masca guide
Park Teide
In Park Teide is Mount Teide, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in Spain. The park is a treat and not to be missed.
Park Teide guide
Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes resort sits at the bottom of the huge Los Gigantes cliffs - one of Tenerife's top natural sights.
Los Gigantes guide
Loro Park
Loro Park is one of the top attractions of Tenerife. It is a large zoo with a dolphin display and tree-tops jungle walkway.
Loro Park guide
Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz is a lovely little harbour town situated at the foot of Mount Teide. It has colourful stucco buildings and lots of attractions nearby.
Puerto de la Cruz guide...or see all our recommended places to visit in Western Canary Islands