Garachico Travel Guide: Travel and tourist information, things to do and see in Garachico

Formerly the island's principal port, Garachico was partly destroyed by volcanic eruption in 1706. It has been preserved as something of a backwater yet serves as a cultural and administrative centre for the surrounding villages. Measuring 1¼ mls by ¾ ml, this sleepy little town has retained many of its old churches and mansions, and avoids much of the traffic congestion found elsewhere on the island although the development of a tunnel road link about 2 mls outside the resort may change this in years to come. A few fishing boats still operate from the harbour, weather permitting, and there is an ever-busy banana-packing plant on the ocean front.

Garachico is situated at the W end of Tenerife's N-facing coast, 39 mls W of Santa Cruz, 43 mls N of Reina Sofia airport by winding W-coast road or 87 mls the long way round by motorway via Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz. It is set on the rugged lower slopes of a volcanic mountain, Mt Teide, which rises almost vertically behind.

Those with a preference for quieter, quainter places or with an interest in local history and culture will enjoy this holiday destination. Winter holidaymakers should be aware that Tenerife usually gets 1 severe Atlantic storm each year, often in early Jan. Garachico, with its exposed ocean front, often suffers badly.

Accommodation here consists of a handful of private apartments and 1 outstanding hotel. Shoppers are greated with some souvenir and artisan shops of superior quality.

There isn't a beach as such here the closest thing are naturally formed rock pools in front of the promenade supplemented by a small public lido pool. A patch of volcanic gravel at the rear of the natural harbour on the edge of town.

Principal daytime activities here include strolling and people-watching, especially along the oceanfront promenade; sightseeing around the well-preserved old buildings with some fine examples of Canarian architecture, including palaces, mansions and convents. The town also boasts a collection of sculptures from the Canaries, Andalucia, the Americas and even the Philippines. Nightlife here consists of some good bars; the bandstand in the main square doubles as an outdoor bar. Occasional recitals at the Hotel San Roque or at a venue in town.

Eateries are limited to modest local restaurants specialising in fish and local cuisine.

Popular local excursions include visits to Icod de los Vinos, La Orotava, Puerto de la Cruz, Mount Teide and Santa Cruz are all easily accessible.

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