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Historic village · Puerto de la Cruz, Canary Islands
La Orotava
Colonial town perched above the valley, 6 km from Puerto de la Cruz, with houses featuring wooden balconies, the Casa de los Balcones, baroque churches and carpets of flowers and colored earth for Corpus Christi.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About La Orotava
La Orotava lies on the slope of the valley of the same name, about 6 km from Puerto de la Cruz and 300 meters above sea level, among banana plantations and vineyards that climb toward the Teide. It was one of the richest towns in Tenerife, with noble families who grew wealthy from sugar cane and wine.
The historic center has steep stone streets and large houses from the 16th to 18th centuries with pine‑canary wooden balconies, inner courtyards and tiled roofs. The best known is the Casa de los Balcones, from 1632, with carved wooden balconies on the façade and a plant-filled patio; today it is a craft shop and a small museum of local customs.
The church of la Concepción, an 18th-century baroque building, has a dome and stone façade. The Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja, laid out in terraces, offer views over the valley and the sea.
At the Corpus Christi festival, usually held between May and June, the streets and the town hall square are covered with carpets of flowers and a large carpet made with the colored soils of the Teide.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, combined with the ascent or descent of the Teide. During Corpus Christi the town usually displays the carpets in the streets.
How to get there
About 6 km from Puerto de la Cruz, roughly 15 minutes by car or bus. It is on the road that climbs to the Teide.
Tip
Park at the lower part and walk up Calle San Francisco to the Casa de los Balcones. Wear comfortable shoes: the streets are steep. Stop at the Quinta Roja gardens for views over the valley.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about La Orotava
What is Casa de los Balcones?
A manor house from 1632 with wooden balconies on the façade and an interior courtyard, now a craft shop and small museum.
When are the flower carpets of La Orotava?
On the feast of Corpus Christi, which is usually held between May and June. Confirm the dates for the year.
Is La Orotava on the way to Teide?
Yes. The road that climbs from Puerto de la Cruz to Teide passes through the town.