Charco Square, Puerto de la Cruz

Depart the south of Tenerife and travel to the resort city of Puerto de la Cruz on the northern half of the island, where tourism is said to have first begun in the Canary Islands. Initially associated with the elite of Europe, who came for its mild climate and healing properties, Puerto de la Cruz and its surrounding area is also noted for its stunning flora.  Despite being the smallest municipality of the archipelago, its population density makes Puerto de la Cruz the second most populated area of the islands. Home to a wide variety of attractions, including the large sea-water bathing pool of Lagos Martiánez designed by the Canarian designer César Manrique, the heart of the city can be found at Plaza del Charco. Visit the extraordinary Botanical Gardens, or travel down Paseo de San Telmo to see the little hermitage. Look at the orchids and dragon trees of Sitio Litre, where the private mansion dates from the 18th century and has been visited by Agatha Christie and the naturist, Alexander von Humboldt among others. See the black sand beach of Playa Jardín and much more.