Tenerife Resorts - Puerto de la Cruz
Wednesday, 11th November 2009
Puerto de La Cruz is located in the North Eastern part of Tenerife. The name translates as “Port of the Cross”. This is the second largest resort in Tenerife, but is quite different to the other resorts in the south and south west. Tourism is an important part of the local economy, but the town, with a population of over 30,000, has managed to retain much of its traditional and laid back charm. Non-Spanish visitors will arrive at Tenerife South airport, but the 30 mile trip is easy on the motorway. Spanish visitors will arrive at Tenerife North airport, which is only 16 miles away. Local people are very friendly, making visitors feel very welcome.
Puerto de la Cruz is one of the most popular destinations for older people seeking a holiday away from the European winter. In was in this way that tourism began here in the 19th Century, long before the creation of the southern resorts. Hotels in the Christmas and New Year are always fully booked. Puerto de la Cruz is also ideal for families, who are looking for a quiet and enjoyable holiday away from purpose built resorts.
The town is overlooked by Mount Tiede, with magnificent views. The Port has thrived for hundreds of years, and its history goes back to the discovery of the Americas.
The weather is slightly cooler than in the South, but always warm and sunny, with refreshing sea breezes off the Atlantic. The local beaches are composed of natural volcanic sand. The two main beaches are Playa Jardin and the Playa Martianez. The Playa Jarin is very pretty, and surrounded by attractive gardens. There are lots of shops, restaurants and bars in the area. Playa Martianez is near the cliffs, and is very popular with surfers and walkers.
The town has many interesting places to visit, including:
- the 17th century church, Nuestra Senora de la Pena
- The Botanical gardens
- Lago Martianez. This was designed by Cesar Manrique, and consists of seven salt water pools, children’s pool, fountains, and waterfalls. A wonderful way to spend a day either swimming or relaxing.
- Loro Park. This has the largest collection of parrots in the world, and a dolphinarium. A must see attraction.
Puerto de la Cruz has a number of festivals throughout the year, the most important being the fisherman’s festival, the Festival of the Virgin of the Carmen, held each summer.
There is a wide selection of restaurants, with fish and seafood a speciality. There is an excellent selection of cuisine, including Canarian, French, Italian, British, and Chinese.Nightlife is varied, with a good selection of clubs and discos. There is also a casino where visitors can lose their hard earned cash.
If you want old fashioned Canarian charm, nice beaches, and a quiet holiday, then Puerto de la Cruz fits the bill.
Please take a look at our favourite hotels and apartments in Puerto de las Cruz
also look at our latest offers for puerto de la cruz and other tenerife resorts hotels and apartments.
