A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Puerto de la Cruz: A Tropical Paradise in the Canary Islands

General Description

Puerto de la Cruz is a coastal city located in the northern part of the island of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, Spain. Known for its warm climate all year round, its beautiful black sand beaches and its vibrant nightlife, Puerto de la Cruz is a very popular tourist destination.

Tourist Attractions

The city has a variety of tourist attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. Among the most notable are:

Loro Parque

This famous zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including dolphins, killer whales, sea lions, gorillas and, of course, parrots. Visitors can enjoy live shows, explore the tropical gardens and learn about wildlife conservation.

Botanical Garden

This 20,000 square meter garden is home to an impressive collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Visitors can stroll along the trails, admire the waterfalls and ponds, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Playa Jardín

This beautiful black sand beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it is one of the most picturesque places in the city.

Gastronomy

Puerto de la Cruz is also famous for its delicious cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Canarian dishes such as "puchero", a meat and vegetable stew, and "gofio", a type of corn or wheat flour. There are also a large number of seafood restaurants serving locally caught fresh fish.

Surroundings

The surroundings of Puerto de la Cruz also have a lot to offer. Visitors can explore the Teide National Park, home to the highest volcano in Spain, or visit the historic city of La Orotava, with its beautiful colonial houses and cobbled streets.

Gastronomic Products of El Puerto de la Cruz

Wrinkled Potatoes with Mojo

Wrinkled potatoes are a typical dish from the Canary Islands and can be found in almost all restaurants in El Puerto de la Cruz. They are small potatoes boiled with skin in salt water, served with a sauce called mojo. There are two types of mojo: the mojo picón, which is spicy and red in color, and the green mojo, which is milder and made with coriander or parsley.
Gofio

Gofio is a very ancient food, originating from the Guanches, the first inhabitants of the Canary Islands. It is a flour made from toasted and ground cereals, such as wheat or corn. It can be used to make bread, desserts, or it can be added to soups and stews. In El Puerto de la Cruz, you can try gofio in many traditional dishes.
Goat Cheese

The Canary Islands are famous for their goat cheese, and El Puerto de la Cruz is no exception. The cheese can be fresh or cured, and is often served with palm honey, a kind of syrup made from the sap of the Canary palm. This cheese has a strong and unique flavor that sets it apart from other goat cheeses.
Fresh Fish

Given its location on the coast, El Puerto de la Cruz offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. The most popular dishes are the vieja, a type of fish that is usually served roasted with wrinkled potatoes and mojo, and the fish broth, a soup made with fish, potatoes, and vegetables.

Outstanding gastronomic places in Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz, on the island of Tenerife, is a place full of charm and tradition, where you can enjoy a rich and varied cuisine. Below, we present some of the most outstanding places:

Regulo Restaurant

Located in an old Canarian house from the 18th century, the Regulo Restaurant is a benchmark of Canarian cuisine in Puerto de la Cruz. Its menu offers a wide variety of traditional dishes, such as rabbit in salmorejo, watercress stew or grouper with potatoes and mojo. Its cozy atmosphere and excellent service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.

Taberna El Camino

Taberna El Camino is a charming place, where you can enjoy authentic Canarian cuisine at good prices. Its menu offers a wide variety of tapas and typical dishes, such as wrinkled potatoes with mojo, fish croquettes or roasted cheese with mojo. In addition, its extensive wine list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Canarian wines.

La Cúpula Restaurant

If you are looking for a high-end culinary experience, La Cúpula Restaurant is an excellent option. Led by chef Juan Carlos Padrón, this restaurant offers an innovative culinary proposal, based on Canarian cuisine with modern touches. Its tasting menu is a real delight for the senses.

Tasca El Olivo

Tasca El Olivo is a cozy and family-friendly place, where you can enjoy Canarian cuisine in its most homemade version. Its dishes, made with seasonal products, are simple but full of flavor. Its grilled meats, fresh fish and delicious tapas stand out.

Sporting Activities in El Puerto de la Cruz

Surfing

El Puerto de la Cruz is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Beaches like Playa Martiánez and Playa Jardín are popular among surfers of all levels.

Hiking

With its proximity to Teide National Park, El Puerto de la Cruz is an excellent starting point for hiking routes. You can explore the island's impressive flora and fauna, as well as the stunning views of the Teide volcano.

Diving

The crystal clear waters of El Puerto de la Cruz are ideal for diving. There are several diving schools that offer courses for beginners and excursions for experienced divers.

Cycling

The varied terrain of the area makes it a popular place for cycling. There are numerous routes that will take you through beautiful landscapes, from coasts to mountains.

Place near El Puerto de la Cruz

If you are in Puerto de la Cruz and wish to explore a bit more, here we introduce you to a nearby city that offers a unique tourist and gastronomic experience:

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a vibrant Spanish port city, offers sunny beaches, impressive architecture and rich Canarian cuisine, with dishes such as "puchero" and "mojo picón". An ideal destination for culture and food lovers.