Cultural Trip: Garachico

A new Cultural Trip offered by AWF is the day trip to Garachico.

In the fertile lowlands of Tenerife’s North West tip, Garachico is officially one of the unluckiest towns on the planet. In its short history Garachico has endured Bubonic plague, floods, storms, fires, plagues of locusts and volcanic eruptions, the worst of which in 1706 destroyed a large part of the town and the source of its wealth; the harbour.

What remains is one of Tenerife’s prettiest destinations with cobbled streets, beautifully restored churches, two fabulous hotels, coastal sea water swimming pools hewn from volcanic rock and a steadfastly traditional Canarian character.

Mirador de Garachico

The first stop on this cultural trip is a popular vantage point where you can soak up the brilliant morning views of Garachico from high above the town. This spot is situated on the TF-82, on route towards the Parque del Drago (Dragon tree).

Plaza Juan Gonzalez de la Torre

“Quaint little park in the heart of Garachico”

The whole square is full of character with a warming atmosphere and boasts lots of historic buildings to meander around. There are tapas bars, public toilets and a café all in and around the square. This plaza is situated just a short walking distance from the fort (Castillo San Miguel), the natural pools (Piscinas Naturales El Caleton) and restaurants including a pizzeria.

Castillo San Miguel (Fort)

Tardis like castle with exhibits tracing Garachico’s history. Great views over the pools from the battlements.
Entrance = €0.50.

Convento de San Francisco

“Well worth the two euros to enter! This is a lovely old convent with internal courtyards and suspended wooded balconies. There are many old and interesting photos from the last 150 years of Canarian history. Not more than 15 minutes to take in the lot, but well worth doing”.

There is also an amazing collection of fossils and shells from all over the world and a display which shows the history of the volcanic eruptions that have made the town what it is today.

Piscinas Naturales El Caleton (Rock pools)

These free natural pools make a great place to swim and relax in the heat of the sun. This area of Garachico used to be a successful fishing port until 1590 when Teide volcano erupted and filled the harbour with lava, the result is what you see; numerous natural pools formed from cooled lava flow, extending into the sea. These natural swimming pools have had some manmade enhancements such as ladders, steps and walkways for easier access.

Changing facilities and showers are provided, with a café nearby. Toilets can be used by customers of the bar. Just don’t forget your towel and a snorkel (sign them out)!