Puerto de la Cruz in
the north of Tenerife has a noble history. Long before tourism existed
either as a concept or on the island itself, this port town was connecting
the Canary Islands with Europe and the fledgling new country of America.
500 years ago when no-one would have heard of Las Americas, Puerto
de la Cruz was called 'the key to the islands'
Today Puerto de la Cruz may be a modern and cosmopolitan
city and a popular tourist destination but it has managed to retain much
of its olde- worlde charm with its broad streets and leafy plazas.
Places of interest
The
historical and cultural aspects of Puerto de la Cruz add much to its
charm and set it apart from many of the typical charter holiday destinations.
Indeed, many of those who have gone on their holidays
to Tenerife have fallen in love with Puerto de la Cruz and the many
intricacies peculiar to the place.
While the usual attractions of sun,
sand and sea are present they are complemented by the the local culture
and scenery. For instance, Puerto de la Cruz is home to the Costa Martianez
complex that was designed by renowned international architect Cesar
Manrique.
Puerto de la Cruz is known for the many town squares scattered
throughout
the town that are lined with stylish shops and cool cafes, most notable
of these squares is Plaza
del Charco. Other places of interest in Puerto de la Cruz include
the Botanical Garden, which dates back to 1792, and the gardens at
Sitio Litre.
The beaches of Puerto de la Cruz are dressed in silky black
volcanic sand. The pretty Playa Jardin is bordered by paths through mature
garden areas and is well served with cafes. restaurants and shops. Playa
Martiànez nestled betwwen the cliffs on either side is also clothed
in sparkling black sand. this area is partially protected by a break
water while an area closer to the cliffs is ideal for surfing and regularly
hosts surfing competions.
At Playa San Telmo the young locals get their kicks by plunging into
the sea of an old pier and old and young alike potter among the rock
pools at low tide. There is a promenade here and a bar/restaurant.
Although for those who have not experienced volcanic sand before the
black sand can seem a bit odd, it does not take to much time to get used
to its unique velvety texture. One other distinct difference is that
these beaches tend to be far less crowded than those Playa
de las Americas.
Being at the north of the island, Puerto de la Cruz escapes the extremes
of summer heat that the resorts in the south sweat through every summer.
While still warm and sunny, the city is leafy and green, cooled by sea
breezes and ideal for those who like to walk through the town exploring
streets and plaza, gardens and cultural landmarks.
Eating out
Those who like dining out will be well suited to a holiday in Puerto
de la Cruz as the town is packed with gastronomical delights. Whether
it is traditional Canarian fare that you are, French, Belgian, british,
Japanese, Chinese or Italian you'll find it all and much more in Puerto
de la Cruz. The town prides itself on the range of fine seafood restaurants,
many of which offer their own special dishes as well as the typical local
soups and stews.
Accommodation in Puerto de la Cruz
In terms of accommodation, Puerto de la Cruz has a reputation
for excellence that is evident in the number of high quality 4 and 5
star hotels in the town. Popular hotels include the luxury 5 star Hotel
Botanico and the 5 star Semiramis Hotel that is perched right on the
edge of the Atlantic Ocean. If you want to save some money then you can
try some of the more affordable accommodation available in Puerto de
la Cruz such as the 3 star Hotel San Telmo or the 3 star rated Hotel
Trovador. Whatever your budget is, you'll find plenty to choose from
in Puerto de la Cruz. With the new planning laws in place the standard
of hotels
in Tenerife (in general) can only increase in the future.
Getting to Puerto de la Cruz is very easy from Aeropuerto de Tenerife
Sur in the south and Tenerife Los Rodeos Airport via the motorway. There
are plenty of car
hire companies throughout Tenerife, with representatives
in Puerto de la Cruz. Ferries link Tenerife and the other Canary Islands,
providing you with many island-hopping opportunities.