Taoro Viewpoint

For our last stop, we are putting on our Sunday best (or comfortable clothes, don't worry) to visit the green lung of the north. Atop the mountain that watches over the tourist city par excellence, you will find the Mirador Taoro (Taoro Viewpoint). This is where luxury tourism was born in the Canary Islands more than a century ago.

History and Gardens at Taoro Viewpoint

This viewpoint is located inside the beautiful Taoro Park, an oasis of tropical gardens, fountains, and walkways. But what gives it its unique character is the building behind it: the old Gran Hotel Taoro. It was the first grand luxury hotel in Spain, hosting everyone from European royalty to the writer Agatha Christie. From the Mirador Taoro, you will feel like a Victorian aristocrat surveying your domain.

The view is a delight. You have Puerto de la Cruz at your feet: you will see the dome of the Peña de Francia church, the Lagos Martiánez complex designed by César Manrique, and the entire north coast crashing against the city. It is a quiet viewpoint, away from traffic, where you only hear the water of the fountains and the singing of birds.

Tips from Your Local Insider

Taoro Park is my favorite place to disconnect in Puerto, and here are my secrets:

Cocktail Hour: Right at the viewpoint, there is a very famous terrace-cafeteria. Watching the sunset from there with a "barraquito" or a gin and tonic in hand, watching the city lights turn on below, is the perfect plan to end the day.
Look for the Waterfall: The park has an impressive artificial waterfall that cascades down the mountainside. Sometimes it is turned off, but if you catch it running, the sound of the water and the coolness it gives off are magical. It is illuminated at night!
Sporty Walk: If you want to earn your dinner, you can walk up from the city center via the stairs of the "Camino de la Sortija." It's a good workout, but the reward upon reaching the top and seeing the views is worth every step.

Taoro Viewpoint is the icing on the cake. A place with class, history, and nature that perfectly summarizes the stately charm of Puerto de la Cruz.