Puerto de la Cruz (Historic Coastal Resort)

The original tourist centre of Tenerife, established as a health resort in the 19th century by British visitors. Key attractions include the Lago Martiánez complex — a stunning 27,000 m² seawater pool and leisure area designed by the visionary Canarian artist and architect César Manrique, featuring 7 pools, tropical gardens, volcanic stone terraces, fountains, and sculptures completed in 1977 (entry ~€5.50). The Botanical Garden (Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava, founded 1788 by King Carlos III) showcases over 3,000 plant species from five continents. Playa Jardín (also designed by Manrique) is a black sand beach with tropical gardens and waterfalls. The historic old town features the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia, the 17th-century Castillo de San Felipe (a defensive fortress), and the Plaza del Charco — the social heart of the city lined with restaurants and bars.