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Given that Teide National Park extends right up to the edge of the city, Orotava is a good starting point for a number of hikes of varying length and difficulty, a few of which can be accessed by public bus. However, the wildfires of 2023 caused massive destruction in the forests above the Orotava valley. As of early 2024, the whole area of the fire is completely off-limits for civilians and virtually all nearby trails are closed. Check the official map for up-to-date information before you head out.
Plaza del Kiosco
The pleasant square with a café is a good viewing platform, with good views as far as Puerto de la Cruz.
Church of St. Augustine
The 17th-century church was once part of a monastery which is now used as a music school. Especially noteworthy are its bell tower, built of black volcanic stone, and the elaborate Mudejar-style carved wooden ceiling.
Built in 1925 as a private mansion, the building is now used for a school and also houses a café. The garden in front is freely open to passersby.
Jardines Victoria
Once belonging to the mansion of the Marquis de la Quinta Roja, the terraced 19th-century gardens were acquired by the city in 1991 and opened to the public. The structure on the uppermost terrace was conceived as a mausoleum, but never used.
Hijuela Botanical Garden
Located on the grounds of a former convent, this lovely garden established in 1788 as a nursery for the larger Jardín Botánico in nearby Puerto de la Cruz. It has tropical plants from several continents, and an especially large drago tree.
Facing the 19th-century neoclassical town hall, the square is the focal point of annual festivities including Carnival, Corpus Christi, and Christmas.