Tacoronte, wine, guachinches and the rural essence of northern Tenerife

Tacoronte is a municipality in the north of Tenerife that has gained fame for two things: its wine (it's the heart of the Designation of Origin Tacoronte-Acentejo) and its guachinches, those places where producers serve homemade food with their own wine. It's a perfect destination for those who want to experience the most authentic Tenerife, away from the tourist areas of the south.

Additionally, its coast has a special spot: Mesa del Mar, with natural pools and a peaceful atmosphere. The CanariasLife webcam shows this area live, to check conditions and the atmosphere before heading down.

Wine and guachinches: the identity of Tacoronte

Tacoronte gives its name to the Designation of Origin Tacoronte-Acentejo, the most well-known of Tenerife. The vineyards of Listán Negro cover the slopes of the municipality and produce red wines with a volcanic character that have gained recognition throughout Spain.

However, the most authentic way to taste these wines is in a guachinche. They are temporary places where winemakers sell their own harvest accompanied by homemade food: rabbit in salmorejo, festival meat, wrinkled potatoes with mojo y gofio. In fact, Tacoronte and its surroundings have the highest density of guachinches in Tenerife. It's a gastronomic experience unique to the area.

Several wineries in the municipality offer tours, tastings, and tours explaining how the volcanic soil and northern climate influence the wine's flavor.

Mesa del Mar and the coast

Mesa del Mar is the coastal heart of the municipality: a quiet neighborhood with natural pools sheltered from the waves, a residential atmosphere, and views of the Atlantic. It's a great spot for swimming without crowds.

Additionally, Tacoronte's coast has other spots like El Pris, a small fishing village with fresh fish restaurants by the sea. It's one of those hidden gems known only to locals that's worth discovering.

Historic District

Tacoronte is one of the oldest municipalities in Tenerife. The Parish Church of Santa Catalina (known as the Christ of Sorrows) is the most important religious building and a place of great devotion on the island. There's also the notable Hermitage of San Lázaro and several restored colonial houses in the center.

The town has a quiet, rural atmosphere. Every September 21st the festivities in honor of the patron saint are celebrated, with parades, traditional music, and popular cuisine.

Hiking and nature

The surroundings of Tacoronte combine banana plantations, vineyards and forests. The rural paths between farms offer easy walks with views of the sea and Teide. From the municipality, you can access trails connecting to the area of Hope and the forest near laurisilva Valle Guerra Anaga Rural Park.

In addition, , on the eastern slope of the municipality, is an agricultural area with a green and tranquil landscape, ideal for cycling and strolling., in the eastern part of the municipality, is an agricultural zone with a green and peaceful landscape, ideal for cycling and walks.

Cuisine in Tacoronte

Beyond the guachinches, the municipality has its own culinary tradition. The rabbit in salmorejo is the highlight dish. The Canary Island migas, the wrinkled potatoes with mojo and the wine donuts (a traditional sweet made with local recipes) complete the offering.

In El Pris, the restaurants by the sea serve fresh fish of the day. It's the best combination: Tacoronte wine with fish from the north coast.

How to get to Tacoronte

Since the Tenerife North Airport is about 20 minutes via the TF-5 motorway. From Santa Cruz de Tenerife, about 15 minutes. There are TITSA buses connecting Tacoronte with the capital and other northern municipalities like La Orotava y Puerto de la Cruz.