La Orotava

La Orotava is located in a green valley in the north of Tenerife and is one of the most beautiful historic towns on the road to Mount Teide. The old town is full of steep streets, old Canarian-style houses and carved wooden balconies, the most famous of which is the Casa de los Balcones, now a museum and craft shop. The town's main square, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and the churches next to it (e.g., Iglesia de la Concepción) are very atmospheric and great places to take photos. On a clear day, La Orotava offers beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding banana plantations, with Mount Teide towering above. A good plan is to spend half a day walking around the old town, then sit down at a local restaurant to sample some Canarian dishes (e.g., papas arrugadas, mojo sauces). The climate here can be cooler and more humid than in the southern resort areas, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket with you.