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6 Beautiful Villages in Tenerife You Shouldn’t Miss
When most people think of Tenerife, their minds immediately jump to the sun-soaked beaches and bustling resorts in the south.
But if you’re anything like me—a traveller who loves diving into the heart of a destination—you’ll find that the real soul of Tenerife lies in its lesser-known villages.
Nestled in the mountains, perched on cliffs, or tucked away in lush valleys, these villages offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history, unique architecture, and warm local culture.
Let me take you on a personal tour of six of the most beautiful villages in Tenerife, each with its own charm and story to tell.
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Masca
Let’s start with Masca, a village so tiny and remote that you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden world.
Masca is more of a hamlet than a village, but don’t let its size fool you—it’s packed with beauty and adventure.
The journey to Masca is an experience in itself. But, I recomend you to drive slow and safely as the road is quite narrow and it tends to get a bit crowded in peak times.
Once you arrive, you’re greeted by a village that feels frozen in time, with traditional Canarian houses and cobbled streets.
The village is set in a dramatic gorge, and if you’re up for it, you can hike down to Masca Bay. The hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding, leading you through lush greenery and offering breathtaking views of the ocean.
For me, Masca is the perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure, making it a must-visit on your Tenerife itinerary.
Vilaflor
Next up is Vilaflor, a village that offers a serene escape from the more touristy parts of the island.
Located at an altitude of 1,400 metres, Vilaflor is the highest village in Tenerife and, quite possibly, the most peaceful.
If you’re heading to Teide National Park from the south, Vilaflor is the perfect place to stop and soak in the mountain air.
What I love about Vilaflor is its simplicity. The village is surrounded by pine forests and vineyards, and the air is filled with the scent of wildflowers.
It’s a great spot for nature lovers and hikers—don’t miss the trail to the Lunar Landscape (Paisaje Lunar), a surreal area of volcanic formations that look like something from another planet.
When in Vilaflor, I always make a point to stop at Restaurante-Cafetería “La Paz“. There’s something about their barraquito coffee and almond cake that makes you feel right at home.
It’s the perfect pick-me-up before or after a hike, and a little taste of Tenerife’s warm hospitality.
La Orotava
If you’re interested in history and architecture, then La Orotava is a village you cannot miss.
This town, located in the north of the island, is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Tenerife. Walking through La Orotava is like stepping back in time.
The town is filled with well-preserved colonial buildings, charming plazas, and traditional Canarian balconies that are works of art in themselves.
One of my favourite spots in ➡️La Orotava is the Casa de los Balcones⬅️, a historic house that now serves as a museum. Here, you can get an up-close look at the intricate woodwork and learn about the town’s history.
After exploring the house, take a leisurely stroll through the town’s steep, cobbled streets. Yes, the hills are steep, but the views and the atmosphere make it all worth it.
For those who appreciate a good garden, the Hijuela del Botánico is a must-visit. This botanical garden, tucked away behind the town hall, is a little oasis of calm and offers a beautiful view of Mount Teide in the distance.
Garachico
Garachico is a town that’s full of character and history, and it’s probably one of the most charming places on the island.
Situated on the rugged northwest coast, Garachico was once the most important port in Tenerife.
However, in 1706, a volcanic eruption destroyed much of the town, including its harbour. But Garachico is a town that knows how to bounce back, and today it’s a picturesque spot that beautifully blends history and resilience.
The first thing you’ll notice in Garachico is its unique architecture.
The town is full of traditional Canarian buildings, with wooden balconies and cobbled streets that lead to charming squares.
The Plaza de la Libertad is the heart of the town, where you can relax with a coffee and soak up the atmosphere.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the old Franciscan Monastery, which now houses a museum, or take a dip in the natural rock pools (El Caletón), formed by the volcanic eruption centuries ago.
I love visiting Garachico because it feels like a place where time slows down.
The town’s resilience is inspiring, and its beauty is undeniable. It’s a perfect spot for a day trip, where you can explore, relax, and even take a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
Icod de los Vinos
Just a short drive from Garachico, you’ll find Icod de los Vinos, another gem in Tenerife’s northern region.
This town is best known for its ancient Drago Milenario, or Dragon Tree, which is over a thousand years old and one of the island’s most iconic symbols.
The tree is located in a beautiful park, and seeing it in person is quite an experience—there’s something almost mystical about this ancient, sprawling tree.
But there’s more to Icod de los Vinos than just the Dragon Tree.
The town itself is lovely, with narrow streets, traditional Canarian houses, and plenty of shops where you can sample local wines and products.
Icod de los Vinos is, after all, famous for its wine, and a visit to one of the local wineries is a must if you’re a wine lover like me.
The town’s main square, Plaza de la Constitución, is another highlight. It’s a great place to sit and watch the world go by, with the impressive Church of San Marcos as a backdrop.
Whether you’re here for the wine, the history, or just to relax, Icod de los Vinos is a place that captures the essence of Tenerife.
Taganana
Finally, let’s head to the very north of the island, to a village that feels like it’s at the end of the world—Taganana.
Nestled in the rugged mountains of Anaga Rural Park, Taganana is one of the oldest villages in Tenerife, and getting there is half the adventure.
The drive through the Anaga Mountains is nothing short of spectacular, with winding roads and dramatic views that will leave you in awe.
Taganana itself is a quiet, traditional village where life moves at a slower pace. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
The village is surrounded by lush green mountains, and the nearby beaches, such as Playa de Benijo and Playa del Roque, are wild, beautiful, and often deserted.
When visiting Taganana, I recommend stopping for a meal at one of the local restaurants.Fresh fish is the specialty here, and there’s nothing better than enjoying a plate of pescado a la sal (salt-crusted fish) while taking in the views of the rugged coastline.
And if you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch the sunset, Playa Benijo is the place to be. The sunsets here are some of the most stunning I’ve ever seen, with the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the ocean and the jagged rocks.
Tenerife is so much more than its beaches and resorts. The island’s villages are where you’ll find its true heart and soul.
Each village offers something unique, whether it’s the adventurous drive to Masca, the peacefulness of Vilaflor, the history and architecture of La Orotava, the charm of Garachico, the ancient allure of Icod de los Vinos, or the remote beauty of Taganana.
These are places where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain or sea air, and really connect with the essence of Tenerife.
So, next time you visit, make sure to step off the beaten path and explore these beautiful villages—you’ll discover a side of Tenerife that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable.
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Juan from Canarian Calling
Passionate about the Canary Islands, my blog offers insightful recommendations to enhance your travel experience, ensuring unforgettable adventures and cherished memories.
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