A lovely coastal town on the northern side of Tenerife, Garachico was the island’s very first port, and has been welcoming travellers since the 15th Century. Characterised by terracotta-tiled roofs, this little Atlantic Ocean community is ideal for those seeking to combine a laid-back beach holiday with a real sense of heritage. Most of the best places to stay in Garachico are intimate historic residences, converted into affordably priced little hotels.

Founded by Genoese trader Cristóbal de Ponte in 1496, Garachico was once a trading port between Europe and the Spanish settlements in the Americas. Destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706, the town was carefully rebuilt and now boasts small, curving cobbled streets lined with heritage homes, churches and boutiques. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest thirty years ago, the town’s architecture has been carefully preserved, and guided walking tours are now the best way to get a real sense of its historic importance. Don’t miss the Church of Santa Ana on the Plaza de la Libertad, or the Castillo de San Miguel.

Framed by the rock of Garachico and a craggy Atlantic Ocean coastline, Garachico is not the place to go for sandy beaches. It does, however, boast some unusual rock-hewn natural saltwater pools for cooling dips or summer sunbathing. Head out on the water for fantastic snorkelling and diving excursions, as well as superb sailing trips. This is a wonderful destination for those seeking to experience a more tranquil side of Tenerife, and the best places to stay in Garachico will delight quieter, relaxed visitors.

The Best Places to Stay in Garachico

For Heritage Charm

• Gara Hotel Rural is a charming seaside property with 14 guest rooms. Set in a restored 18th-century Canarian house, this little spot has stacks of charm. Period features — including wooden beams and exposed stone walls — have been carefully preserved and paired with comfortable modern furnishings. The roof terrace promises views of the historic town and the Atlantic Ocean.
• La Quinta Roja, the 16th-century home of the Marquis de Quinta Roja, has been sensitively restored. Now a lovely boutique hotel, the house has simple contemporary furnishings set against original wood and stone elements. The inner courtyard is wonderful for relaxing, as are the swimming pool and excellent restaurant.
• Hotel San Roque is another heritage property in Garachico. A red-painted 18th-century mansion, this elegant 20 bedroom hotel now has a superb courtyard pool and a characterful interiors. The best rooms are spread across two levels, connected by a wooden spiral staircase. Beautiful and romantic.

For a Rural Escape

• Hotel el Patio, on the edge of the nearby village of El Guincho, is brilliant for those looking to unwind in blissful natural surroundings. Whitewashed buildings with terracotta-tiled roofs hide airy guest rooms, and there's a swimming pool, tennis court and verdant gardens. Amble along to the beach as a family, or simply soak up the sunshine on your terrace.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Tenerife Norte Airport, 40 minutes by car or bus from Garachico, or to the larger Tenerife South Airport, which is 1 hour and 20 minutes' drive away. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• It's wonderful to explore the island with the freedom of your own transport. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect warm summers, with temperatures hovering at around 26°C between June and August. For fewer crowds and slightly cooler weather, travel in April, May or late September.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Puerto de la Cruz.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Tenerife.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.