In Los Realejos, historic buildings meet coastal activities and protected natural areas. When planning your trip, it is worth considering these different themes separately: churches and festivals offer insight into cultural history, while trails, viewpoints and the coast provide other opportunities for excursions.
Churches, Architectural History and Festivals
The Church of Santiago Apóstol is considered the first Christian church in Tenerife. In 1983, it was designated a national heritage site in the “Monument” category. The First Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception also has a long building history: it reopened in 1993, retaining its original structure. In the late 17th century, it was expanded into a three-aisled church. The final construction phase, featuring the remarkable woodwork on the coffered ceiling, was completed between the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is also part of the cultural heritage: in 2008, it was designated a heritage site in the “Monument” category, together with its square and grounds. For a different perspective on history, visit the Gordejuela water elevator. The Hamilton Company built it in 1903, and the island’s first steam engine was installed there.
If you would like to plan your trip around a festival, two dates are particularly different: the Festival of the Holy Cross with its fireworks takes place in May, while “Realexo: Una cita con el pasado” takes place in August. The Cross Festival has been celebrated since 2009 and is recognized as a festival of regional tourist interest in the Canary Islands. The program includes visitor shuttles, exhibitions, parades, photography competitions, nighttime street parties and a large fireworks display. Realexo is an annual event held in August to promote the historical and cultural values of Los Realejos. Check the dates and program for the relevant year before your trip.
Coast and Hiking Trails
Surfing and other sports and water activities are available at El Socorro Beach. Several local, national and international surfing, bodyboarding and longboarding championships are held there every year from May to September. If you are visiting for a competition, check the dates for the relevant year.
Route 0-4-0 starts at El Socorro Beach, heads into Teide National Park and returns to the same beach. It runs for almost 58 kilometers over mountainous terrain and includes nearly 7,600 meters of uneven ground. When planning this long route, check trail conditions and permit requirements before setting out.
Along the coast, a route runs almost entirely along the boundaries of the Rambla de Castro Protected Landscape. It offers views of beaches, pebble shores, coves and natural pools on the coast of Los Realejos. The natural pools of Guindaste offer swimming in pools and cascades formed by past volcanic activity. Swimming conditions also depend on the state of the sea.
Scenery, Views and Getting Your Bearings
Los Realejos’s trail network connects natural areas with residential districts, making it possible to walk through practically the entire municipality. In La Corona Forestal Natural Park, trails run from the mountains to the sea. They pass through hills and ravines and connect neighboring municipalities. From the La Corona viewpoint, you can enjoy sweeping views across northern Tenerife.
La Corona also has a purpose-built paragliding launch platform on a slope 750 meters above sea level. Whether it can be used depends on weather conditions. For a break at the Ruiz Ravine, the recreation area there offers, among other things, large wooden tables and benches, drinking fountains, barbecue areas and toilets. A trail starts there and passes through the ravine, which is designated an Area of Scientific Interest. Check the facilities and local regulations before visiting.
Local Products
The Los Realejos gastronomy seal is awarded to quality products grown, made, prepared or produced in the municipality. It helps visitors identify, buy and try local products. Regional specialties include bittersweet white wine, Bonita potatoes, Canarian black pork, goat meat and locally produced honey.
Discover more destinations: Icod El Alto, Palo Blanco, Cruz Santa, Tigaiga, Llanadas, Brezal, Icod De Los Vinos, Santa Cruz De Tenerife.
Go to the main travel overview: Tenerife.
