Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife: My Highlights, Puerto de la Cruz, Spain (B)

Puerto de la Cruz in north of Tenerife is the oldest and one of the most popular seaside resorts in the Canary Islands. I want to see why it is.

This former port of La Orotava is famous for its jagged coastline of black volcanic rocks surrounding the famous swimming pools of Lago Martiánez created by the famous Spanish artist and architect César Manrique in 1977. I started my exploration of Puerto de la Cruz on its sea front but turned away from the artificial lagoons preferring to walk along the stunning natural coastline.

Overseeing all the activity along the busy sea front is the pretty church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia in Iglesia Square. It was built in 1697 and today it is the most important religious building in Puerto de la Cruz. The artistic value of this church is continually being enhanced by donations from its own congregation.

The long promenade winding along the sea front offers many opportunities to pause and watch the waves crashing onto the black rocks below. As the sea recedes large, natural pools appear. Bathing in these pools is encouraged by the provision of paths and ladders assisting entry into the shimmering blue water. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).