Tacoronte
Tenerife's historic wine country - where tradition meets artistic expression
Where Volcanic Soil Nurtures Centuries of Tradition
Nestled in the verdant northern slopes of Tenerife, Tacoronte invites visitors to discover a side of the island far removed from the southern beach resorts. This historic town, surrounded by ancient vineyards and agricultural landscapes, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Tenerife's winemaking tradition. Here, among terraced fields that descend toward dramatic Atlantic coastlines, visitors experience authentic Canarian culture shaped by centuries of agricultural prosperity. Tacoronte's atmospheric historic center, with its traditional architecture and artistic touches, creates a feeling of stepping back in time while its renowned farmers' market and wineries connect visitors directly to local producers. The town balances its deep agricultural roots with creative expression through public art installations and cultural festivals, creating a destination where wine, history, and art flow together as naturally as the region's coveted vintages.
From Guanche Kingdom to Wine Country
Guanche Era (Pre-1496)
The area formed part of the Menceyato (kingdom) of Tacoronte, ruled by Mencey Rumén. Archaeological evidence suggests substantial Guanche settlement attracted by the region's fertile land, abundant water sources, and favorable climate. The name 'Tacoronte' itself preserves its indigenous Guanche origins.
Early Colonial Period (Late 15th-16th Century)
Following the Spanish conquest, Tacoronte quickly became a vital agricultural center. European settlers recognized the area's exceptional growing conditions, establishing sugar plantations and introducing the first grapevines that would define the region's future identity.
Agricultural Prosperity (17th-19th Centuries)
Tacoronte developed into one of northern Tenerife's wealthiest agricultural regions, with its wines gaining renown in European markets. This prosperity is reflected in the elegant historic buildings, churches, and estates constructed during this period by successful landowners and merchants.
Modern Era (20th Century-Present)
While maintaining its agricultural traditions and historic character, Tacoronte has evolved into a vibrant residential and commercial center for northern Tenerife. In 1992, the Tacoronte-Acentejo region received the island's first wine Denomination of Origin status, officially recognizing its winemaking heritage.
Top Attractions
Bodegas and Vineyards
Tacoronte is the birthplace of Tenerife's winemaking tradition, home to the prestigious Tacoronte-Acentejo Denomination of Origin. Visit historic wineries where ancient volcanic soils and unique microclimates produce distinctive reds and whites. Many bodegas offer guided tours explaining traditional and modern winemaking techniques.
Visit during autumn harvest (September-October) to see the vineyards at their most vibrant and potentially witness the grape collection process.
Historic Town Center
Explore the charming historic core with its traditional Canarian architecture showcasing wooden balconies, stone facades, and interior courtyards. The town center includes the impressive Iglesia de Santa Catalina Mártir, the stately town hall (Ayuntamiento), and numerous historic buildings reflecting centuries of prosperity.
The golden hour before sunset bathes the historic buildings in warm light, creating perfect conditions for architectural photography.
Mercado del Agricultor (Farmers' Market)
This vibrant weekend market is Tenerife's largest and most renowned farmers' market, where local producers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, honey, baked goods, and artisanal products. The lively atmosphere provides genuine insight into local life and agricultural traditions.
Visit early on Saturday mornings (8-11am) for the freshest selection and to avoid crowds. Bring small bills and your own shopping bag.
Public Art and Sculptures
Throughout Tacoronte, striking sculptures and installations celebrate the town's cultural heritage, agricultural traditions, and artistic spirit. Notable works include the Monument to the Farmer (Monumento al Labrador) honoring the region's agricultural roots, and various contemporary pieces brightening plazas and public spaces.
Mesa del Mar
This coastal area features natural volcanic swimming pools, a black sand beach, and dramatic cliffs. A winding road descends from Tacoronte's highlands to this secluded coastal enclave, offering spectacular views of the rugged north coast and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Check tide times before visiting - the natural pools are best enjoyed at low tide, while high tide can sometimes limit access.
Wine Experiences
As the home of Tenerife's first and most prestigious Denomination of Origin, Tacoronte-Acentejo, the region offers exceptional wine tourism opportunities. From historic cellars to modern production facilities, visitors can immerse themselves in the island's unique winemaking traditions.
Bodega Cráter
Family-owned winery producing distinctive red varieties from volcanic soils, offering guided tours of their traditional cellar and modern production facilities followed by tastings of their award-winning wines.
Location: 10 minutes from town center, surrounded by vineyards
Highlights: Bold red wines, particularly from the local Listán Negro grape
Bodega Monje
Historic winery dating back to 1750 offering comprehensive wine experiences including tours, tastings, wine-pairing meals, and even wine therapy spa treatments. Their panoramic terrace provides stunning coastal views.
Location: El Sauzal area, 5 km from Tacoronte center
Highlights: Traditional red blends and innovative wine experiences
Ruta del Vino Tacoronte-Acentejo
Follow the official wine route connecting the region's top bodegas, vineyard landscapes, and wine-focused restaurants. The route offers a comprehensive experience of the region's wine culture and scenic beauty.
Location: Throughout Tacoronte and neighboring municipalities
Highlights: Self-guided or organized tours available from the tourism office
Wine Museum and Visitor Center
Interactive museum explaining the history and techniques of winemaking in the region, from the first vines planted after the Spanish conquest to modern sustainable practices.
Location: Downtown Tacoronte
Highlights: Educational exhibits, regular wine tastings, and cultural events
Culinary Delights
Tacoronte's culinary scene reflects its agricultural abundance, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional preparations. From authentic "guachinches" (rustic taverns originally selling homemade wine with simple food) to more refined dining experiences, the local gastronomy pairs perfectly with the region's renowned wines.
El Guachinche de Tacoronte
Authentic Canarian tavern with rustic charm
Specialties: House wine, rabbit in salmorejo, traditional potatoes with mojo
Restaurante Casa Tomás
Historic restaurant in converted colonial building
Specialties: Wine-paired tasting menus, local cheeses, slow-cooked meats
El Lagar
Upscale dining showcasing regional ingredients
Specialties: Creative dishes using local produce, extensive local wine list
Mesa del Mar Restaurant
Seaside eatery with dramatic ocean views
Specialties: Fresh seafood, grilled fish, seafood paella
Mercado Gastronómico
Vibrant food hall within the farmers' market
Specialties: Tapas, pintxos, and small plates featuring market ingredients
The Guachinche Experience
For an authentic taste of local cuisine, seek out Tacoronte's traditional "guachinches" – rustic, family-run establishments that originated as places for winemakers to sell their surplus production alongside simple home-cooked meals.
These unpretentious venues typically offer a limited menu of traditional dishes like roasted meat, hearty stews, and local cheeses, always accompanied by the house wine produced by the owners. The atmosphere is casual and convivial, providing a genuine glimpse into local culinary traditions.
Tacoronte-Acentejo Wine Region
The Tacoronte-Acentejo Denomination of Origin, established in 1992 as the first in the Canary Islands, is renowned for its distinctive wines shaped by volcanic soil and unique microclimate.
Unique Terroir
The combination of mineral-rich volcanic soil, steep terraced vineyards, and the influence of Atlantic trade winds and coastal mists creates wines with distinctive mineral notes and character found nowhere else in the world.
Signature Grapes
Listán Negro dominates red wine production, producing robust, fruity wines with peppery notes, while Listán Blanco (Palomino) and Marmajuelo are key white varieties offering fresh, aromatic profiles.
Traditional Methods
Many vineyards maintain traditional practices, including hand harvesting on steep terraces that prohibit mechanization. Some older vines use the unique "multiple braided cord" training system developed for Tenerife's conditions.
Pre-Phylloxera Vines
The region features some of Europe's few ungrafted pre-phylloxera vines, as the volcanic soil and isolation prevented the devastating aphid from reaching Tenerife, preserving original European root stock.
Festivals & Events
Fiestas de Santa Catalina Mártir
November (particularly around November 25)
Tacoronte's main celebration honoring its patron saint includes religious processions, traditional music, folk dancing, agricultural displays, and communal feasts showcasing local cuisine and wines.
Tacoronte Wine Festival
Late September
Annual celebration of the wine harvest featuring tastings from local bodegas, traditional grape treading demonstrations, wine-themed competitions, music, and gastronomic events highlighting perfect food and wine pairings.
Carrera del Vino (Wine Run)
June
Unique sporting event combining a half-marathon through scenic vineyards with stops at local wineries for tastings. Participants run through some of the region's most beautiful agricultural landscapes.
Mercado Artesanal (Craft Market)
First Sunday of each month
Market showcasing traditional Canarian crafts including pottery, woodwork, textiles, and jewelry. Local artisans demonstrate traditional techniques and sell handcrafted items reflecting the island's cultural heritage.
Tacoronte Farmers' Market
The Mercado del Agricultor de Tacoronte is considered the best and most authentic farmers' market in Tenerife, operating since 1981.
Opening Hours
Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The Saturday market is typically larger and more lively.
What to Find
Seasonal fruits and vegetables, local cheeses, honey, flowers, traditional baked goods, homemade wines, artisanal products, and Canarian delicacies.
Gastronomy Section
The market includes a popular food hall where visitors can sample traditional dishes and local specialties prepared with ingredients from the market.
Cultural Experience
More than just shopping, the market offers a glimpse into local life, with farmers proudly displaying produce grown using methods passed down through generations.
Day Trips from Tacoronte
La Laguna
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage city with its perfectly preserved colonial architecture, historic university, and vibrant cultural scene. The pedestrianized historic center features colorful buildings, museums, and excellent shopping.
15-minute drive
Anaga Rural Park
Discover ancient laurel forests, dramatic mountain ridges, and traditional hamlets in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park offers numerous hiking trails through landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for millennia.
30-minute drive
Puerto de la Cruz
Visit Tenerife's original tourist destination featuring the famous Lago Martiánez swimming complex designed by César Manrique, botanical gardens, and a charming old town with a distinctly Canarian atmosphere.
20-minute drive
La Orotava Valley
Explore one of Tenerife's most fertile and scenic valleys with its historic town featuring exceptional examples of traditional Canarian architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of Mount Teide.
25-minute drive
Practical Information
Location
Northern Tenerife, approximately 20 km from Santa Cruz and 18 km from La Laguna
Getting There
Easily accessible by car via TF-5 highway; regular bus service from Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz (TITSA routes 101, 102, 103); approximately 25 minutes from Tenerife North Airport
Climate
Milder and sometimes more humid than the south; ideal growing conditions for wine with average temperatures 18-25°C (64-77°F); occasional mist or light rain nourishes the vineyards
Is It Worth Visiting?
Tacoronte offers an essential counterpoint to Tenerife's beach resorts, revealing the island's deep agricultural heritage and authentic Canarian culture. For wine enthusiasts, it's an unmissable destination to discover unique volcanic wines found nowhere else. History lovers will appreciate the well-preserved architecture and glimpses of pre-Spanish heritage, while foodies shouldn't miss the island's best farmers' market and traditional restaurants. Tacoronte rewards visitors seeking a more genuine island experience, where daily life continues much as it has for centuries, yet with artistic flourishes that reflect the creative spirit of its community. Combine a visit with nearby La Laguna or Anaga Rural Park for a perfect day exploring northern Tenerife's cultural and natural treasures.