The charm of the Canary Islands

Over the years, the Canary population has developed a unique personality which has given rise to its own special and cheerful way of doing things. This is also reflected in the architecture - something that can be seen in the myriad of traditional rural hamlets, the small villages of white houses and the historical quarters of the cities, all of which bring together an excellent example of the Canarian identity. Ideal to explore on foot are the landmark buildings of great cultural interest and the places full of charm that tell us of the past history of the islands and their people. When it comes to relaxing, what better than to stop somewhere en route and try the local wine or a traditional dish surrounded by the beauty of these places.

THE RED MOUNTAIN

TAGANANA

A hamlet in the heart of Anaga Rural Park

The hamlet of Taganana is the main population centre in the Anaga Rural Park. Situated in the southern part of this hugely important nature reserve, in the north-east of Tenerife, Taganana benefits from a beautiful surrounding landscape and gives a true flavour of Tenerife’s oldest villages. In fact, this was one of the first settlements founded by the Spanish conquerors. There are a number of items of great historical value, and two churches - Nuestra Señora de las Nieves and the Santa Catalina chapel – are listed buildings.

Cultural and historical jewels

The best way to reach Taganana is from the north via the Las Mercedes forest - one of the oldest in Europe - along the windy road that goes down between the ravines. In the centre of the village you’ll find the Nuestra Señora de las Nieves square, a quiet space where the locals take time out under the Indian laurel trees. The ethnographic value of Taganana has many facets, including the local stone presses and the famous Portugal neighbourhood, an authentic historical jewel.

LA LAGUNA, OLD TOWN

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Located in the north of the island of Tenerife, San Cristobal de La Laguna was the first city established in the Canary Islands and to date is the only one to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its colonial architecture, the linear layout of its streets - created in the 15th Century without protective outer walls - and a large pedestrianised shopping area, all combine to give a distinctive feel to this ancient university city, whose historic streets offer visitors an unforgettable experience.

Family walks amongst palaces, churches and convents

What most stands out among La Laguna’s old town is the large number of churches and other historic religious buildings, which offer visitors the chance to enjoy its historical and artistic sites, combined with a stop-off in some of its many tapas bars. Among the buildings open to the public are the neoclassical cathedral, La Iglesia del Cristo, the palaces of Nava and Salazar and the convents of Santa Catalina and of Santa Clara. La Laguna is well worth a visit.