In the north of Tenerife, the thermometer settles low, the waters are cold and deep, time moves more slowly, and nature seems to reclaim everything. In this setting, Garachico undoubtedly steals the spotlight, making it an unmissable stop.
A town carved in lava
A stroll through Garachico is like stepping into a vital chapter of Tenerife’s history. Despite its modest size – home to fewer than 5,000 residents – this northern town once held remarkable global significance, its story deeply entwined with the sea.
Garachico and its port were founded by the Genoese banker Cristóbal de Ponte shortly after the conquest of Tenerife in 1496. During the 16th and 17th centuries, it became the island’s most important harbour, serving as a key hub for the export of wine and sugar to the Americas and Europe.
This flourishing trade brought prosperity to the town, reflected in the elegant architecture that still graces its streets today. Stately mansions with carved wooden balconies and peaceful courtyards, alongside Baroque-influenced churches and convents, stand as enduring witnesses to that golden age.
The town’s fortunes changed dramatically in 1706 when the Trevejo volcano erupted, engulfing much of Garachico and its port beneath lava – though, remarkably, without loss of life.
Today, the Muelle Viejo (Old Quay) remains as a reminder of the town’s later, more modest maritime activity, centred mainly on banana exports, while the island’s main sea trade shifted to Puerto de la Cruz.
Natural pools, cobblestone streets and historic charm
During your visit to Garachico, don’t miss a stroll through its charming historic centre – one of the best preserved on the island and declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1994. Narrow cobbled streets, lined with small shops and inviting restaurants, weave among historic mansions of remarkable architectural value.
Notable examples include the House of the Marquis of Villafuerte, a fine representation of traditional Canarian architecture from the late 17th century, as well as the House of the Count of La Gomera and the Hacienda El Lamero, both dating from the same period.
You also shouldn’t miss Santa Ana parish church, the San Francisco convent, the Santo Domingo convent and the San Roque hermitage. San Miguel Castle is another highlight of any visit – located just a short distance from the famous Natural Pools of El Caletón.
This area consists of several natural pools carved into volcanic rock, all interconnected and perfect for swimming. Their winding shapes and refreshingly cool waters make them one of Garachico’s main attractions – an ideal way to end your stroll before stopping at one of the local restaurants. Do take care with the waves, though; it’s no coincidence that Garachico has experienced several floods throughout its history.
How to reach one of the most beautiful towns in Tenerife
Visiting Garachico is easy – you can reach the town by public transport on one of the bus routes that stop there, or simply drive and explore at your own pace.
- If you’re travelling from the north, simply follow the TF-5 motorway and then continue along the TF-42 road until you reach Garachico. From Tenerife North Airport, the journey takes around one hour.
- If you’re coming from the south, you have two options. The easiest is to take the TF-1 motorway from Tenerife Sur towards Santa Cruz de Tenerife, then connect with the TF-5 and follow the same route north – a journey of roughly an hour and a half.
- Alternatively, for a more scenic drive along the island’s rugged west coast, take the TF-1 motorway in the opposite direction and connect with the TF-375 at Santiago del Teide, followed by the TF-82 and TF-42 towards Garachico. This route includes some winding mountain stretches with sharp bends but rewards you with stunning views along the way.