Free walking tours in Candelaria and what to see

Must-sees

Candelaria is on the east coast of Tenerife and is the great pilgrimage centre of the Canary Islands. Its main sight is the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, designed by the architect Enrique Marrero Regalado, which houses the figure of the archipelago's patron saint, carved by Fernando Estévez in the 19th century after the original was lost in a storm. In front of it, by the sea, is the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, with José Abad's nine bronze statues of the Guanche menceyes, or kings.

Very close is the Achbinico cave, also called San Blas cave, considered the first place of worship of the Virgin on the island, which now holds a bronze replica of the original figure. Beside it is the Cueva de los Camellos, an old stable for pack animals. For swimming there's Playa de la Arena, with black sand and pebbles, and an easy coastal path from the square to Playa de La Viuda.

Free tours and guided visits

In Candelaria you can join a guided walk of the centre covering the basilica, the square and the caves, with the story of the Virgin and the Guanches. Another option is the town's mysteries and legends tour. Candelaria is also a good starting point for island excursions, such as the trip up Mount Teide with cable car tickets, going up via the north of the island.

How long to spend

The basilica, the square and the Achbinico cave take two or three hours. If you add the coastal walk and some time on the beach, allow a relaxed day. With a second day you can go up to Igueste de Candelaria to walk the hillsides or visit Güímar and its Pyramids. Bear in mind that on major pilgrimage dates the town fills up.

Where to stay

The most convenient option is to stay in the centre, near the basilica and the promenade, where there are hotels and apartments and everything is on foot. Las Caletillas, north of the centre, has seafront hotels with pools and more of a holiday feel. Igueste and the hillsides have rural houses for those seeking peace, and Santa Cruz is about twenty minutes away.