Taganana: Cultural History and Hiking Trails

Taganana is a dispersed settlement in the Anaga Rural Park. Two themes stand out as you plan your trip: the history of its buildings and settlement on the one hand, and hiking routes on the other. If you are looking for a hotel in Taganana, you can decide whether historic paths and sacred architecture or a longer hike should be the focus of your trip.

Churches, art and local heritage

The parish church of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves is protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) in the Monument category. Its origins date back to the 16th century. The church has a rectangular floor plan and three naves. Its design can therefore be described both by its overall form and by its division into three naves. The church also houses the 16th-century Flemish triptych “Adoration of the Magi,” a work by Marcellus Coffermans. A triptych is an artwork made up of three parts. Taganana’s cultural history thus brings together architecture and a specifically attributed work of art as distinct aspects.

On Taganana’s square, the chapel of Santa Catalina stands opposite the parish church. It was consecrated on 29 May 1630. The local history therefore offers two distinct points of reference: the parish church’s origins in the 16th century and the chapel’s precise consecration date.

The Librea also recalls a historical episode: lookouts spotted a foreign fleet, and 85 residents formed a militia. Palm weaving is another cultural practice associated with Taganana.

Historic paths and hikes

The Camino de Las Vueltas was laid out in 1506 along the route of an important pre-Hispanic path, strengthening the links between Taganana and La Laguna. Until quite recently, Las Vueltas was Taganana’s only transport connection with Santa Cruz and La Laguna. Its history therefore combines its construction along an older route with its later importance for travel between these places. A paved section of the Las Vueltas route leads to the Portugal neighbourhood, where traditional domestic architecture is highlighted.

For a longer outing, the PR-TF 8 Afur–Taganana–Afur circular hiking trail offers a specific option for planning your trip. From Afur, it heads towards Tamadite Beach, climbs to the hamlet of El Chorro and on to Taganana, then returns to Afur via Monte de las Vueltas. The circular route is moderately difficult and 14.3 kilometres long; it takes about seven hours. You can plan around this duration as a substantial block in your itinerary. Check trail conditions before setting out. The Anaga Massif’s hiking options also include the Taganana Interpretive Trail.

Bus routes are listed for both directions on the PR TF 04 El Bailadero–Taganana: take route 077 from La Laguna interchange station for the outward journey, and route 946 from Taganana to Santa Cruz interchange station for the return. Check the current TITSA service before travelling.

Playa de Almáciga is another option for enjoying nature and the coast: it is one of Taganana’s three beaches, has black volcanic sand and is suitable for surfing. The surf can be strong there all year round. If you plan to swim, check the conditions.

Discover more destinations: San Andres, Benijo, El Draguito, Cueva Bermeja, Maria Jimenez, Igueste De San Andrés, Barranco Hondo, Santa María Del Mar.

For the wider travel overview: Santa Cruz De Tenerife.