Things To Do
in La Matanza de Acentejo
La Matanza de Acentejo is a small town in the north of Tenerife, perched on rugged volcanic terrain with sweeping Atlantic views. It preserves a traditional Canarian ambience, with whitewashed houses and a calm, village-centered rhythm. The area is rich in history, including battlefield sites from the 16th century and nearby laurel valleys.
With its coastline, vineyards, and dramatic landscapes, it's a tranquil base for exploring Tenerife's north.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in La Matanza de Acentejo and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Canarian pastries with fresh coffee. Take a stroll around the village to absorb the local culture and scenic views.
Visit the nearby artistic gallery featuring local artists’ works and learn about their inspirations and techniques. Afterward, have lunch at a quaint restaurant offering authentic Canarian cuisine, where you can try dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through local shops that showcase hand-crafted souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local viewpoint to witness breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a terrace, where you can savor seafood dishes while taking in the tranquil evening atmosphere. End your evening with a leisurely walk to admire the stars in the clear skies.
Begin your day with a guided tour around traditional Canarian houses and learn about their architectural significance. Engage with local inhabitants to hear stories about their heritage and lifestyles. After the tour, enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a nearby bakery.
Visit the historic church of San Andrés and soak in the spiritual atmosphere while appreciating its intricate design. For lunch, seek out a local bodega where you can taste regional wines paired with artisanal cheeses. Spend your afternoon participating in a local workshop, such as pottery or weaving, to connect more deeply with the culture.
Join a community event or festival if available, where you can experience local music, dance, and festivities. Relish a traditional dinner featuring local recipes, and don’t miss trying 'papas arrugadas'. Spend your evening mingling with locals, sharing stories and laughs under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $90-150 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil base for exploring Tenerife’s north and easy day trips
- Friendly locals and traditional Canarian cuisine
- Limited nightlife within the village
- Some attractions require a car or bus connections
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in La Matanza de Acentejo
Visit one of these nice places.
Atlantic-facing seawall and viewpoints along the north coast, ideal for sunrise silhouettes and sea spray textures.
Ravine scenery with volcanic rock formations and panoramic ocean views; dramatic light at golden hour.
Historic church with a simple bell tower and whitewashed walls—great for architectural shots in the town center.
Panoramic overlook over the valley and coast, perfect for wide-angle landscapes.
Colorful facades, flowers, and local life—great for street photography and portrait sessions.
Food in La Matanza de Acentejo
La Matanza de Acentejo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wrinkly potatoes served with two spicy canarian sauces; a staple at most taverns.
Must-Try!
Salt cod stew with potatoes and gofio; a comforting Canarian classic.
A warm gofio porridge or mash typically served as a side or base for other dishes.
A sweet almond dessert, often served with ice cream or on pastry.
Goat cheese often eaten with bread or honey as a tapa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh produce, fish, cheese, and ready-to-eat snacks; a good place to try gofio-based bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'hola' or 'buenos días'; maintain a calm, friendly demeanor; avoid loud behavior in public spaces and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in La Matanza de Acentejo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Spain tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% at sit-down restaurants for good service is common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common, and most places support credit/debit cards; smaller cafes may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooling coastal breezes; keep hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during mid-day; evenings are pleasant for outdoor dining.
Mild, with some rainfall and lush scenery returning after the summer dryness; pleasant for hiking in the valleys.
Very mild with cool nights; daytime temperatures comfortable for sightseeing; occasional mist and rain in the north.
Blooming landscapes, longer days, and comfortable hiking temperatures; ideal for outdoor photography.
La Matanza de Acentejo at Night
Hiking in La Matanza de Acentejo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ravine walk through volcanic landscapes with views of the coast and battlefield history.
A coastal to hillside path offering sea views and photo opportunities along the north coast.
Airports
How to reach La Matanza de Acentejo by plane.
15–25 km from La Matanza; good connections to the island’s north and other Canary Islands; accessible by taxi or bus (TITSA).
Approximately 60–70 km away; larger international network; best reached by car or highway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Canarian families and retirees, with a growing number of visitors and seasonal workers in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns like La Matanza; local matches and casual play in parks.
Hilly roads and coastal routes attract road cyclists and weekend riders.
Nearby ravines and laurel forests offer varied trails for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Matanza de Acentejo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made meat-free; opt for papas arrugadas with mojo, gofio escaldado with vegetables, grilled vegetables, salads, and fresh goat cheese.