What to see in Los Realejos (Tenerife)
Los Realejos is a municipality located in the north of the island of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is divided into two main parts: Realejo Alto and Realejo Bajo, each with its own character and attractions. Realejo Alto is known for its historic quarter, where you can admire one of the oldest churches on the island. Realejo Bajo, on the other hand, stands out for its proximity to the coast and for its festivities, which are very popular and colourful. In addition to its cultural heritage, Los Realejos offers a wide variety of natural landscapes. From its volcanic beaches to its mountains and trails, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers.
If you are planning to include this charming municipality in your route around Tenerife, the ideal thing to do is to take advantage of the rental offers and book your car hire at Tenerife South Airport at the cheapest price in order to have full autonomy and make the most of your trip.
Things to see and do in Los Realejos
Church of Santiago Apóstol
The Church of Santiago Apóstol, located in Realejo Alto, is one of Tenerife's oldest and most emblematic architectural gems. Founded in the 15th century, its construction began shortly after the conquest of the island, making it one of the first Christian temples established in Tenerife. The church stands out for its impressive Mudejar-style façade and its robust stone structure, which reflects the influence of European and local architectural traditions. Its bell tower and main portal, with delicate carvings and ornamental details, are particularly remarkable and capture the attention of visitors.
Among its most valuable treasures are an image of St. James the Apostle, patron saint of the church, as well as a rich collection of sacred art, including paintings, sculptures and liturgical objects. This church is not only a place of worship, but also an important testimony to the history and culture of Los Realejos and Tenerife in general.
Hacienda de los Príncipes
The Hacienda de los Príncipes is a historic agricultural complex dating back to the 16th century and reflects the wealth and splendour of the colonial era in Tenerife. This hacienda was one of the main sugar producers on the island during the period of Spanish rule. Its name comes from the Princes of Ascanio, an influential family of Genoese origin that played a crucial role in the economy and society of Tenerife. The hacienda's architecture combines traditional Canarian elements with Renaissance influences, and is notable for its spacious manor houses, cobbled courtyards and lush gardens.
Today, the Hacienda de los Príncipes is an important historical and cultural site, attracting numerous visitors interested in learning more about Tenerife's agricultural and colonial past. The complex has been restored to preserve its heritage value and offers an enchanting setting for walking and exploring.
Corona Forestal Natural Park
The Corona Forestal Natural Park, located near Los Realejos, is the largest protected natural area in the Canary Islands, covering over 46,000 hectares surrounding the Teide National Park. This vast natural environment is a haven of biodiversity, characterised by dense Canary Island pine forests, extensive areas of scrubland and volcanic formations. The park is an ideal place for hiking and other outdoor activities, offering numerous routes that allow visitors to explore its varied landscapes, from the lush forests to the more arid and rugged areas approaching the Teide. The Corona Forestal Natural Park is an ecological treasure that invites contemplation and adventure in the heart of Tenerife.
La Corona viewpoint
La Corona viewpoint is one of the most impressive panoramic points in Tenerife. Situated some 750 metres above sea level, it offers a spectacular view of the Orotava Valley, the Atlantic Ocean and, on clear days, the island of La Palma on the horizon. From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy a privileged view of the mountainous and coastal landscapes that characterise the north of Tenerife, with the majestic Teide as a backdrop. It is an ideal place for those seeking to connect with nature and capture unforgettable images of the Canarian landscape.
In addition to its attraction as an observation point, La Corona is famous among paragliding enthusiasts, being one of the most popular places on the island to practice this sport. The wind conditions and altitude make the take-off from this viewpoint perfect for flying over the valley and the coast, offering a unique and exciting experience.
El Socorro Beach
El Socorro is one of the best known and most popular beaches in the north of Tenerife. With its dark-coloured volcanic sand and spectacular natural environment, this beach offers a wild and authentic atmosphere, surrounded by cliffs and vegetation typical of the Canarian coast. The constant swell of the Atlantic makes El Socorro an ideal destination for surfers, who come to take advantage of the excellent conditions for this sport. However, it is also popular with sunbathers and nature lovers, who find this beach a peaceful place to enjoy the sun and sea, especially on days with less swell.
The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag on several occasions, which certifies the quality of its waters and the sustainability of its environment. From El Socorro, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of the Teide and the cliffs that frame the coast, making it a perfect place to relax while contemplating the natural beauty of the island.
In short, Los Realejos is an unmissable destination for those looking for an authentic Tenerife experience in a unique natural and cultural environment, so don't wait any longer and enjoy every corner with your hire car!