What to see in Icod de los Vinos
Index
The soul of the north of Tenerife – Icod de los Vinos
In the northwest of Tenerife, between green mountains and the blue of the Atlantic, is Icod de los Vinos, a destination full of history, nature and tradition. This municipality, one of the oldest on the island, combines the cultural heritage of the Canary Islands with the volcanic beauty of its surroundings. Founded at the end of the 15th century, Icod de los Vinos grew around vine crops, from which it takes its name, and retains its rural and authentic charm to this day.
The traveller who arrives in Icod de los Vinos discovers a place where time seems to slow down. Strolling through its cobbled streets, observing its houses with wooden balconies or enjoying a local wine with views of Mount Teide are experiences that sum up the spirit of this town. In addition, its mild climate throughout the year makes it a perfect destination for those who want to combine culture, nature and relaxation.
In this article we will show you what to see in Icod de los Vinos, from its most famous symbol, the Drago Milenario, to its volcanic caves, viewpoints and beaches. A complete guide to make the most of your visit and understand why this corner of the north of Tenerife captivates everyone who knows it.
The Ancient Dragon Tree: eternal symbol of Icod de los Vinos
If there is an essential place to see in Icod de los Vinos, it is the Drago Milenario. This emblematic tree, declared a National Monument in 1917, is one of the most recognisable natural symbols of the Canary Islands. With a height of more than 16 meters and a base of about 20 meters in perimeter, the Drago impresses with both its size and its mysticism. It is estimated to be more than 800 years old, although some local legends claim that it exceeds the millennium.
The Drago Milenario is located in the Parque del Drago, a well-kept natural space that offers a quiet experience surrounded by native flora. From its trails and viewpoints you can get spectacular views of the tree and the historic centre of
Very close to the park, the Dragon Museum complements the visit with information about the natural history of the tree and the relationship between the ancient Guanche inhabitants and this species, considered sacred. Visiting the Drago Milenario is an essential experience for any traveller, not only because of its beauty, but also because it represents the connection between nature and the cultural identity of Icod de los Vinos.
The historic centre: a walk through centuries
The historic centre of Icod de los Vinos is one of the most picturesque in Tenerife. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, it preserves the essence of traditional Canarian architecture, with cobbled streets, sunny squares and facades adorned with carved wooden balconies. Walking through its center is like traveling back in time, to a time when the wine and sugar cane trade boosted the local economy.
Among the highlights is the Plaza de Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres, the heart of the municipality. Here stands the Church of San Marcos Evangelista, built in the 16th century and renowned for its impressive Baroque altarpiece and volcanic stone tower. In the surrounding area, visitors can stop at small cafes, artisan shops and wineries offering tastings of local wines.
Another charming corner is the Casa del Plátano, a small museum dedicated to one of the most emblematic products of the Canary Islands. Also worth visiting is the Casa de los Cáceres, an 18th-century architectural gem that houses temporary exhibitions.
The old town of Icod de los Vinos invites you to get lost without haste, observing the details, breathing its calm air and enjoying its authenticity.
Viewpoints and landscapes: unforgettable panoramic views of Icod de los Vinos
One of the great attractions of Icod de los Vinos is its natural environment, full of viewpoints that offer spectacular views of both the sea and the mountains. One of the best known is the Mirador del Drago, from where you can get a perfect panoramic view of the millenary tree and the town centre. Another highlight is the Mirador de Santa Bárbara, which allows you to contemplate the vineyard fields that give the municipality its name.
For photography lovers, the Mirador de El Lance is a must-see. From there you can overlook the entire north coast of Tenerife and you can enjoy one of the best views of Mount Teide on clear days. In addition, there are several rural trails that connect the viewpoints with small farmhouses and traditional farming areas, ideal for those looking for a more natural and quiet experience.
The landscape of Icod de los Vinos combines the greenery of the banana plantations and vineyards with the strength of the volcanic relief. It’s a perfect destination for those who enjoy nature and the outdoors, with options for hiking, biking, or simply relaxing while taking in the views of the Atlantic.
The Cueva del Viento: a journey to the volcanic heart of Tenerife
On the outskirts of Icod de los Vinos is one of the most fascinating natural wonders of the Canary Islands: the Cueva del Viento. It is a volcanic tube formed about 27,000 years ago by the eruptions of Pico Viejo, a neighboring volcano of Mount Teide. With more than 17 kilometres of underground galleries, it is the longest volcanic tube in Europe and the sixth longest in the world.
A visit to the Cueva del Viento is a unique experience, especially for lovers of geology and adventure. The tour, always guided by experts, allows you to discover lava formations, fossils, natural chambers and endemic microfauna. Access is tightly controlled to preserve this delicate ecosystem, so advance reservations are recommended.
The visitor centre, located in the municipality of Icod de los Vinos itself, offers an interactive exhibition that explains how volcanic tubes were formed and their scientific importance. In addition, from the trails that surround the area you can enjoy spectacular views of the valley and Mount Teide.
To visit the Cueva del Viento is to literally enter the volcanic bowels of Tenerife and better understand its geological origin.
The legacy of wine: tradition and flavour of Icod de los Vinos
The name Icod de los Vinos is no coincidence. Since the sixteenth century, the municipality has been closely linked to the cultivation of vines and wine production. The climatic conditions of the north of Tenerife, with volcanic soils and Atlantic humidity, create a perfect environment to obtain wines with character and personality.
In the surroundings of the municipality you can visit several family wineries that offer guided tastings and tours of the vineyards. Some of the best known are Bodegas Viñátigo or Bodega El Drago, where visitors can taste local varieties such as Listán Blanco or Negramoll. These experiences allow you to learn about the production process, from harvest to bottling, and discover how wine is part of the cultural identity of the area.
In addition, many restaurants in Icod de los Vinos include in their menus pairings with local wines, accompanied by traditional dishes such as rabbit in salmorejo or wrinkled potatoes with mojo.
Enjoying a wine in front of the volcanic landscape is one of the most authentic experiences offered by this corner of the north of Tenerife.
Beaches and nature: from the sea to the mountains
Although it is located in the interior of the valley, Icod de los Vinos also has direct access to the sea. Just a few minutes from the center is Playa de San Marcos, a sheltered bay with dark sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming or spending a day with the family. Its natural surroundings and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the most pleasant beaches in the north of Tenerife.
In the surrounding area, rural paths and old paths invite you to explore nature on foot. One of the most recommended is the Camino Real de Icod el Alto, which offers spectacular views of the valley and connects with other traditional villages. You can also enjoy the Barranco de Ruiz and wooded areas such as the Montes de Agua García, ideal for those looking for direct contact with nature.
The contrast between the sea, the mountains and the agricultural landscapes make Icod de los Vinos a perfect place for those who want to discover a greener, quieter and less touristy Tenerife.
Canarian culture, festivities and hospitality
In addition to its natural beauty, Icod de los Vinos stands out for its cultural life and its traditional festivals. One of the best known is the Fiesta de San Andrés, held at the end of November, in which the neighbors “run the boards” through the streets in a fun tradition that symbolizes the opening of new wines. Also noteworthy are Holy Week, the Fiestas de San Marcos and the Romerías, where music and folklore fill the squares.
The municipality has several museums, such as the Guanche Museum, which offers an interesting insight into the ancient inhabitants of Tenerife, or the Museum of the Sea, which reflects Icod’s relationship with the coast and fishing.
The hospitality of its people, always friendly and close, completes the experience of the visitor, who feels part of the community from the first moment.
Staying in a hotel in the north of Tenerife and exploring Icod de los Vinos allows you to discover an authentic part of the island, where history, nature and culture coexist in perfect harmony.
Conclusion
To visit Icod de los Vinos is to enter the historical and natural heart of the north of Tenerife. Its mix of tradition, volcanic landscapes, wines with character and hospitable people make it a must-see destination. Whether you want to admire the Drago Milenario, walk its colonial streets or enjoy its wineries, every corner offers a different and authentic experience.
If you plan to travel to Tenerife, do not leave out of your route this municipality full of life, flavour and charm.