Most people picture Tenerife as the sunny, beachy south — Costa Adeje, resorts, golden sand. But cross to the north and you find a completely different island: green, lush and authentically Canarian, with dramatic cliffs, historic towns, banana plantations and the most spectacular views of Mount Teide. If you want the real Tenerife, this is it. We're Ronaldo and Mane, local hosts, and here's our guide to the north.
Why the north is special
The trade winds catch the north, so it's greener, fresher and more dramatic than the arid south. There are far fewer big resorts — instead you get real towns where Canarians actually live, a proper food and wine scene, and a coastline of black-sand beaches and natural rock pools. It feels like stepping into the authentic island.
What to see in the north
- Puerto de la Cruz. The north's charming seaside town — palm-lined promenades, the Lago Martiánez sea pools designed by César Manrique, a beautiful botanical garden, and Loro Parque nearby.
- La Orotava. One of the prettiest historic towns in the Canaries, with cobbled streets, ornate wooden balconies and grand old houses, looking out over the green Orotava valley.
- Garachico. A gorgeous historic town by the sea, with natural volcanic rock pools (El Caletón) you can swim in — the whole town was rebuilt after a 1706 eruption.
- Icod de los Vinos. Home of the Drago Milenario, a thousand-year-old dragon tree that's a living symbol of the island.
- Anaga Rural Park. An ancient laurel forest and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with misty ridges, incredible hikes and the hidden beach village of Taganana — there's nothing else like it in Europe.
- Natural pools & wine country. Swim in the charcos at Bajamar or Garachico, and taste local wines in the Tacoronte-Acentejo region — the north is Tenerife's wine heartland.
The north can be a touch cooler and cloudier than the south — pack a light layer. But that's exactly what keeps it so green and beautiful.
The best of both worlds
Here's the secret: stay in the north for the authentic side, and the south's beaches, water parks and sunshine are still an easy drive away. With a car you get the whole island — green mornings in Anaga, sunny afternoons on a southern beach.
Where to stay in the north
Our northern base is Villa Vistas Mar y Teide in El Sauzal — a private villa with a pool and sweeping views of both the sea and Mount Teide, right in the heart of the green, wine-growing north. It's the perfect spot to experience the authentic side of the island. (Prefer the beaches? We have plenty of villas in the sunny south too — just ask.)
Planning a trip to the north?
Book direct with us and we'll help you plan the perfect northern Tenerife escape — the villa, a car and the best local spots — for the best price.
