Exploring the Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches, and, of course, the enchanting Botanical Garden in the north Puerto de la Cruz.

For me, stepping into the Botanical Garden, or Jardín Botánico, felt like an escape into a lush, tranquil oasis that was centuries in the making. Established in the 18th century by the orders of King Charles III of Spain, these gardens provide an unforgettable experience for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

As I strolled through the 20,000m2 expanse, I marvelled at a wide variety of rare and strange plants from around the world.

The gardens are thoughtfully designed, offering visitors abundant photo opportunities and peaceful spots to rest and take in the surroundings.

During my visit, I spent around 2-3 hours exploring and immersing myself in the verdant beauty of the Botanical Garden.

What truly impressed me about the Puerto de la Cruz Botanical Garden was the harmony between the rich history and impressive horticulture on display. By combining modern amenities with well-maintained historical features, these gardens provide an accessible and educational experience for visitors.

Curious minds and nature lovers alike should make a point to include this hidden gem in their plans when visiting Tenerife.

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History of the Botanical Garden, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

When exploring the history of the Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, I found out that it was originally known as Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava. Its creation dates back to the late 18th century when King Charles III of Spain ordered its establishment.

The purpose of these gardens was to acclimatize the New World’s unfamiliar plants to the Canarian climate.

As I dug deeper into the garden’s history, I discovered that it covers over 20,000m2 of land, showcasing a diverse range of flora from around the world.

The second-oldest Botanical garden in Spain, it reflects the rich historical and cultural significance of the La Orotava Valley and Puerto de la Cruz.

While strolling through the garden, I couldn’t help but appreciate its botanical wonders, as it helps preserve the rich biodiversity of plant species.

Over the centuries, the garden has played a crucial role in promoting knowledge and appreciation of the unique flora found in the Atlantic islands and beyond.

Attractions Tenerife

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Location and Accessibility of the Jardin Botanico

As I was exploring Tenerife, I found Puerto de la Cruz to be a lovely coastal city and a great location to visit the Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico) in the north of the island.

Easily accessible from the TF-5 north motorway, I took exit 32 which led me onto the TF-31, heading towards Puerto de la Cruz.

As I continued on the route, I eventually saw a sign for the TF-312, labelled “El Botanico,” indicating the entrance to the Botanical Garden. Arriving at Calle Retama, I was greeted by an imposing entrance to the gardens themselves. I found this area to be highly accessible and not difficult to navigate.

The Botanical Garden, also known as Jardín de Aclimatación de la Orotava, is located at Calle Retama 2, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain.

While visiting the garden, I discovered that they were nestled right next to the La Paz neighbourhood, a peaceful residential area that adds to the serene atmosphere.

The gardens were open from Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, giving me plenty of time to explore their beauty during my visit.

To summarize, the Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz is:

• Located in the north of Tenerife, close to the La Paz neighbourhood;
• Accessible via the TF-5 north motorway, exit 32 (TF-31) and following signs for TF-312, El Botanico;
• Situated on Calle Retama with an impressive entrance;
• Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM for convenient visiting hours.

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Botanical Garden Highlights

Exotic and Native Plants

During my visit to the Botanical Garden in Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz, I was amazed by the variety of exotic and native plants. I found an impressive collection of tropical plants, including some rare and endangered species.

There were beautiful flowering plants like Hibiscus, Strelitzia, and Orchids. Additionally, I noticed a section dedicated to the native flora of the Canary Islands, showcasing the unique biodiversity of this region.

Trees and Palms

Walking through the park, I admired the vast collection of trees and palms. I saw magnificent palm trees, some towering high above the ground, and stunning fig trees with their enormous roots crawling over rocks.

The park also hosts a remarkable variety of other tree species, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the diversity and beauty that trees bring to our world.

Colours and Scenery

The vivid colours and picturesque scenery of the garden left a lasting impression on me. From bright and bold flowers to the lush and verdant foliage, I felt like I was transported to a serene paradise.

The contrast between unknown plants and native species created an enticing visual treat as if I were taking a journey around the world through plants.

The garden is designed to showcase the best of plant life in different ecological zones, which adds to the overall charm and appeal.

Paths and Walkways

As I strolled through the garden, I appreciated the well-maintained paths and walkways that allowed me to navigate the diverse flora with ease. The winding paths and stone walkways guided me through the different sections, providing a leisurely and immersive experience.

I observed various resting spots and benches throughout the garden where I could take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

It was evident that great care and attention have been put into designing the pathways to make sure visitors can comfortably explore the grassland‘s beauty.

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Facilities and Amenities in Jardin Botanico, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

At the Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, I found a variety of facilities and amenities that cater to both tourists and researchers. One of the key features is their library, which houses numerous resources on the Canary Islands flora.

This is perfect for researchers or individuals who are curious about the unique plant life in this region.

In addition to the library, there is also a herbarium available for academic purposes. Appointments can be made to visit both the library and the herbarium between the hours of 9 am and 1 pm on weekdays.

These facilities serve as valuable resources for those seeking in-depth information on the plants within the gardens and the Canary Islands as a whole.

During my visit, I noticed that the garden was well-maintained, with walkways and benches for visitors to explore and take breaks throughout their visit. The garden offers a serene atmosphere encompassing over 20,000m2 of natural beauty.

Tenerife‘s native flora and various plant species from around the world are showcased throughout the grounds, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

As for visiting the Botanical Garden, the entrance fee is quite affordable, costing only €3 for adults. This fee goes towards the upkeep and maintenance of the vast array of plants within the grounds.

While exploring the garden, I made sure to take note of the opening hours, which are from 9 am to 7 pm between April and September. This allows for plenty of time to appreciate the unique flora within the gardens and make use of the facilities available.

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Opening Times and Fees

During my visit to the Botanical Garden of Puerto de la Cruz, I observed that the garden is open year-round. The opening times vary depending on the season:

• From April to September, the garden is open from 9 am to 7 pm;
• During the rest of the year, it operates from 9 am to 6 pm.

I found the entrance fee to be quite affordable, as it costs €3.00 for adults. Based on my findings:

Opening Times	Entrance Fee
April – September	€3.00
October – March	€3.00

Within the garden, I discovered that academics may visit the Library and Herbarium for research purposes. However, they require appointments that can be scheduled between 9 am and 1 pm on weekdays.

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Climate and Environment

Tenerife’s Climate

In my experience, the climate in Tenerife is generally pleasant all year round. As for Puerto de la Cruz in the north, it experiences a subtropical climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall.

The weather is influenced by the surrounding ocean, resulting in an enjoyable environment for visiting the botanical garden.

Air Quality

I believe that the air quality in Puerto de la Cruz is generally good. The city’s coastal location and the abundance of green spaces, like the botanical garden, contribute to cleaner air.

The garden, with its wide variety of plants and flowers, serves as an essential lung for the city, and as a visitor, fresh air is something I appreciate.

Benefits

• Pleasant temperatures: Given the subtropical climate, I find the weather in Puerto de la Cruz consistently pleasant, making it an ideal destination for visiting a botanical garden;
• Abundant plant life: The local environment supports lush vegetation, allowing the botanical garden to showcase a diverse range of flora from around the world;
• Clean air: As a result of the region’s natural climate and green spaces, the air quality in and around the park is fresh and enjoyable.

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Research and Conservation

During my visit to the Botanical Garden in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, I observed their dedication to research and conservation. The garden, also known as the Acclimatisation Gardens of La Orotava, holds a significant collection of tropical flora.

In certain areas, it feels like stepping into a lush jungle. This beautiful place has made a significant impact on botanical research, particularly concerning New World plants.

One remarkable aspect I noticed while exploring the garden was its focus on preserving rare and endangered species. They meticulously work on growing and sustaining these plants to preserve biodiversity and promote scientific study.

With a history dating back to the late 18th century, when King Charles III of Spain commissioned the garden, their research journey began with the goal of growing tropical species on Spanish territory.

Over the years, I learned that the Botanical Garden has been collaborating with Madrid’s Royal Botanical Garden as well as other international institutions. These partnerships foster knowledge exchange, further advancing research and conservation efforts.

Some of the garden’s essential research components include a herbarium and a library.

The herbarium houses plant specimens preserved for scientific study, while the library offers a wealth of resources related to botany and horticulture.

To expand the scientific community’s understanding of these tropical plants, the garden hosts training sessions, conferences, and seminars, actively contributing to the field of botany.

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Unique Plant Species in the Botanical Garden, Tenerife North

Ferns and Tree Ferns

During my visit to the Botanical Garden in Tenerife North Puerto de la Cruz, I was amazed by the wide variety of ferns and tree ferns these gardens have to offer. The lush greenery and delicate fronds create a captivating experience for every visitor.

An interesting aspect of these ferns is their ability to thrive in the humid microclimate of the garden. The following are some notable fern species that caught my attention:

• Cyathea: A genus of tree ferns that can grow to impressive heights. Their massive fronds create a unique, tropical ambience in the garden;
• Dicksonia: Another genus of tree fern, known for its graceful appearance and slow growth rate. This species is well adapted to the garden’s conditions and provides a stunning visual display.

Pineapples

I was surprised to discover that the Botanical Garden of Tenerife North Puerto de la Cruz also feature pineapple plants. Although not native to the Canary Islands, these tropical plants have been integrated into the garden’s diverse collection of flora.

The pineapple, which belongs to the Bromeliad family, is characterized by its intriguing appearance and sweet, juicy fruit.

As a visitor, I found it remarkable to see pineapple plants thriving amongst the various other plant species in the garden. This inclusion not only adds to the garden’s charm but also demonstrates the adaptability of different plant species in a shared environment.

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