EL SAUZAL

El Sauzal, viewpoints and wine in the north of Tenerife

El Sauzal is a small municipality on the north coast of Tenerife, but with a lot to offer. It sits on a rise above the sea, giving it privileged views of Teide and the Orotava Valley. It is known for its viewpoints, its winemaking tradition and a green landscape that combines ravines, vineyards and laurisilva forest. laurisilva.

Its mild year-round climate and its closeness to Santa Cruz de Tenerife (just 20 minutes by car) also make it an easy day trip for anyone staying in the capital or in the north of the island. Thanks to the CanariasLife webcam you can see live the conditions and visibility of the Orotava Valley from El Sauzal.

Viewpoints of El Sauzal

What is most surprising about El Sauzal is the number of natural viewpoints it has for its size:

The natural site of La Garañona is the most spectacular. From here you can see a deep ravine dropping down to the north coast, with the ocean in the background. It is one of the most photogenic spots in the municipality.

On the other hand, the Mirador de Las Breñas offers views of the Teide and the Orotava Valley. On clear days, the sunsets from this spot are hard to beat.

It is also worth visiting the Parque de Los Lavaderosis also worth a visit, a botanical garden with viewpoints, fountains and subtropical vegetation. It is a peaceful place to stroll and take in the views without hurrying.

Wine tourism and the Casa del Vino

El Sauzal is located in the winemaking area of the Designation of Origin Tacoronte-Acentejo, the most well-known of Tenerife. Its slopes are covered in vineyards that make the most of the altitude and north-facing orientation to produce wines with character.

The Casa del Vino, housed in a 17th-century manor house, is a space where you can learn about the history of wine in Canary Islands, taste different varieties and buy directly from the producer. It is a must for lovers of wine tourism and it also serves as a museum and exhibition hall.

Hiking and nature

The municipality has several hiking routes that run through ravines, forests and farmland. The best known is the Water Route, which follows old irrigation channels and traditional watercourses through the laurisilva. It is an easy walk that lets you understand how water was managed on the island before modern technology.

The paths between vineyards and orchards also offer a peaceful way to get to know the rural landscape of the north of Tenerife.

Coves and coastline

El Sauzal has no wide sandy beaches, but its coastline hides little-known volcanic coves. The Playa de Rojas is the most accessible: dark volcanic sand, crystal-clear water and an unspoiled natural setting. It is a good spot for snorkel and diving, since the seabed in this area is rich in marine life.

The municipality's coastline is rugged and spectacular, ideal for walking and enjoying the sea views from the cliffs.

Gastronomy in El Sauzal

The local cuisine reflects the municipality's rural, wine-growing character. The village taverns serve wrinkled potatoes with mojo, scalded gofio, fresh fish and grilled meats. All washed down, of course, with wine from Tacoronte-Acentejo.

In fact, the municipality holds food fairs throughout the year where you can try local produce and meet the area's producers.

Festivals and traditions

The Fiestas de San Pedro Apóstol, in June, are the municipality's main celebration. Over several days there are religious ceremonies, concerts and cultural activities. There are also craft markets where you can find local products and Canarian craftwork.

How to get to El Sauzal

The municipality is 20 minutes from Santa Cruz de Tenerife via the TF-5 motorway and just 15 minutes from the Tenerife North Airport. There are also TITSA buses connecting El Sauzal with the capital and with other municipalities in the north such as La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz.