La Orotava – Explore a Cobbled Stoned Spanish Town Frozen in Time

La Orotava is a beautiful town located in the north of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands in Spain.

The town is nestled in a valley and surrounded by lush green mountain peaks and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it an eye-catching and picturesque destination for travelers. Decorated with Dragon trees throughout, the town is known for its historic architecture, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage.

La Orotava has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 15th century when the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands took place. La Orotava was one of the first towns to be founded on the island, and its strategic location near the coast and fertile land made it an important center of agriculture and trade. To this day, walking tours through its cobblestoned streets are full of cool facts and intriguing stories of war, migration, and culture.

One of the main attractions of La Orotava is its well-preserved historic center, which was designated a Historic-Artistic Site in 1976. Visitors can explore the town’s quarters, churches, museums, and gardens that seem frozen in time. One of the most notable buildings being the Casa de los Balcones, a historic 17th century mansion with characteristic wooden balconies that are decorated with delicate wood carvings. The house has since been preserved and converted into a museum that provides visitors with a glimpse into the town’s history and culture, with exhibits that showcase traditional Canarian costumes, crafts, and furniture.

Another highlight of La Orotava is the Garden Hijuela del Botánico, a botanical garden that is home to a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The garden covers over 20,000 square meters and features several themed sections, including a cactus garden, a tropical rainforest, and a collection of native Canarian plants. The garden is particularly famous for its collection of palm trees, which includes some of the tallest in Europe.

In addition to its historic and natural attractions, La Orotava is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. La Orotava is known to host several lively festivals and events throughout the year, including the Corpus Christi celebrations in June and the Fiestas de San Isidro Labrador in May. During these festivals, the town comes alive with traditional music, dancing, and colorful celebrations that further prove the passion and national pride of the locals.

Overall, La Orotava is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty and pairs it with the easily accessible adventure and relaxation throughout the island. Whether you are interested in exploring the town’s rich heritage or simply taking in its stunning scenery as you disconnect, La Orotava is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.