Things To Do
in Sauzal

Sauzal is a scenic hillside town on Tenerife's north coast, offering panoramic Atlantic views and a calm, village atmosphere. Its whitewashed houses climb the slopes, threaded by winding lanes and terraced gardens that reflect a long farming tradition. The town serves as a gateway to lush ravines and viewpoints while preserving a genuine Canarian character.

Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, tranquil strolls, and sunsets over the sea in a relaxed setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Explore Local Culture
morning
:

Arrive in Sauzal and check into your charming hotel, where you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink. After settling in, start your exploration by visiting the local markets to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and meet friendly locals. Discover unique handicrafts and fresh produce that represent the heart of this small town.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Canarian restaurant, sampling local dishes such as mojo sauce and fresh seafood. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful streets, dotted with colorful houses and family-run shops, soaking in the warm Canarian sun. Don’t miss the chance to visit the local art galleries, featuring works from regional artists.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to a local wine bar to taste exquisite wines from the region, known for its unique volcanic terroir. Enjoy a dining experience under the stars at a terrace restaurant, indulging in a meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Wrap up your night with a leisurely walk along the coast, taking in the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

day 2
Hiking in the Anaga Rural Park
morning
:

After breakfast, set out early for a hike in the breathtaking Anaga Rural Park, famous for its lush green forests and stunning panoramas. Follow the well-marked trails that wind through ancient laurel forests, where you can encounter diverse flora and fauna unique to this area. Enjoy the tranquility and refreshing mountain air as you immerse yourself in nature.

afternoon
:

Pause for a packed lunch at one of the viewpoints overlooking the cliffs, providing a picturesque backdrop for your meal. In the afternoon, continue your hike to uncover hidden villages and traditional houses, learning about the local history through guided tours if available. Capture countless photos of the stunning landscapes along the way.

evening
:

Return to Sauzal, exhausted but exhilarated from your adventure, and refresh yourself at your hotel. For dinner, seek out a quaint eatery that offers a fusion of Canarian and modern cuisine, allowing you to end the day with a culinary delight. Spend the evening unwinding on your balcony or patio, taking in the cool night air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🚶One-way local transport$2-3
🏨Hotel room (mid-range)$85-130
🍽️Dinner for two (mid-range restaurant)$40-70
🛒Grocery basket (basic groceries)$60-90

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful sea views and lush hillside landscapes
  • Relaxed pace of life with genuine Canarian hospitality
  • Good access to hiking, nature, and nearby cultural towns
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh produce
  • Limited nightlife within Sauzal itself; better in nearby towns
  • Smaller selection of large-scale dining and entertainment
  • Some trails can be steep and require good footwear
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Sauzal

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirador de El Sauzal

Elevated viewpoint offering sweeping Atlantic vistas and coastline scenery, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

Paseo del Barranco

Coastal ravine path with dramatic sea cliffs, flowering plants, and morning light by the water.

Iglesia de San Pedro y Plaza Central

Historic church and the surrounding square provide classic Canarian architectural shots with whitewashed walls and colorful doors.

Terraced hillside fields

Stone-walled terraces and citrus groves on the hillsides surrounding the town offer authentic rural Canarian imagery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sauzal

Sauzal and the surrounding north Tenerife area showcase Canarian cuisine focused on fresh seafood, farm-to-table produce, cheeses, gofio, and hearty stews. Expect vibrant flavors from mojo sauces, roasted peppers, and locally grown vegetables, with an emphasis on simple, seasonal ingredients.

Sauzal Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Papas arrugadas con mojo

Wrinkled potatoes boiled in salted water and served with green or red mojo sauce.

Must-Try!

Sancocho Canario

Traditional fish stew with salted fish, potatoes, and mojo; a hearty north Canarias classic.

Queso de Cabra con miel

Local goat cheese drizzled with honey, often served with pan de campesino.

Bienmesabe

Sweet almond and sugar dessert often served with ice cream or sponge cake.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de El Sauzal

A small local market offering fresh fish, cheeses, honey, bread, and seasonal produce; great for sampling regional items.

Street Tapas and Snack Stalls

Casual spots along the town streets offering tapas, pan con tomate, olives, and other light Canarian fare.

Climate Guide

Weather

The north of Tenerife has a mild, subtropical climate with modest seasonal variation. Sea breezes keep summer days comfortable, while winters are mild with cooler evenings. The interior can be cooler and windier on high ground, and microclimates mean rainfall is more common in the hills and the Anaga region than directly on the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly hola or buenos días when you arrive. Handshakes are common in formal settings; casual interactions are often more relaxed.

Dining etiquette

Mealtime is social; wait to be seated, and consider saying gracias after meals. Tapas sharing is common in bars and cafes.

Respect for local customs

Greet neighbors in Canarian communities, avoid loud behavior late at night in residential areas, and dress modestly when visiting churches.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sauzal is generally safe for visitors. Standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, beware of uneven sidewalks and cliff edges along some trails, and use appropriate footwear for hikes. In case of emergencies, dial local emergency numbers and know the locations of nearby clinics or hospitals in La Laguna or Santa Cruz.

Tipping in Sauzal

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Spain is customary but not obligatory. If service is good, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated, especially in restaurants where service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is also commonly used in markets and smaller establishments. ATMs are readily available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with a refreshing Atlantic breeze; expect sunny but comfortable conditions. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan early morning or late afternoon outings to beat peak heat.

Autumn

Mild and variable; pleasant hiking weather with occasional showers. Pack a light waterproof layer and layers for cooler evenings.

Winter

Mild winters with cool evenings; daytime temperatures remain comfortable. Rain is more common, so bring a compact rain jacket and proper footwear for wet trails.

Spring

Fresh and vibrant with blooming flora; ideal for outdoor activities and photography as landscapes come to life.

Nightlife Guide

Sauzal at Night

Sauzal offers a subdued, intimate nightlife scene centered on wine bars, tapas patios, and small terraces. For livelier options, residents often head to nearby Puerto de la Cruz or La Laguna, where live music venues and bars attract both locals and visitors. Expect relaxed evenings with a focus on conversation, local wines, and regional dishes rather than large club scenes.

Hiking in Sauzal

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Barranco de Santos Trail

Coastal ravine route offering sea views and canyon scenery; suitable for a half-day hike.

Anaga Rural Park trails

Extensive network of forested ridges and laurel forests with dramatic viewpoints; best with proper footwear and map.

Teide National Park day trip routes

Longer outings to volcanic landscapes; plan ahead for weather, altitude, and park requirements.

Airports

How to reach Sauzal by plane.

Tenerife North Airport (TFN) – Los Rodeos

Serves the north and offers relatively quick access to Sauzal and La Orotava; often used for intra-island connections.

Tenerife South Airport (TFS) – Reina Sofía

Southern hub with wider international connections; a longer drive to reach the north but useful for island-hopping itineraries.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sauzal is pleasantly walkable within the village center, with narrow, winding streets and gentle elevation changes. Some hills and viewpoints require a bit of uphill walking, and parking can be challenging in busier periods. For longer distances or coastal trips, short drives or local buses are convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Longstanding Canarian families and retirees who maintain traditional village life.

Seasonal visitors

Tourists and short-term travelers who come for the scenery, food, and nearby towns.

Expats and second-home owners

A growing community of residents from other parts of Europe attracted by the climate and slower pace.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport across Tenerife with local clubs and community leagues.

Hiking and trail running

Abundant opportunities in the Anaga and Teide regions, popular with outdoors enthusiasts.

Cycling

Scenic routes along the northern coast and into valleys attract road cyclists and mountain bikers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sauzal is light within the town, with more congestion on main routes during peak commuter hours. Public transport (Titsa) provides connections to nearby towns, though many visitors find a car useful for exploring the north coast and surrounding valleys. Roads can be narrow and winding in rural areas, so drive with caution.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sauzal.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Sauzal, vegetarian travelers can enjoy papas arrugadas with mojo, seasonal vegetable dishes, cheeses, and salads; ask for mojo sin carne or guisos without meat, and opt for fresh fruit and legumes when available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Spain provides high-quality healthcare. Local clinics and pharmacies serve routine needs, with hospitals in nearby La Laguna (Hospital Universitario de Canarias) and Santa Cruz available for more serious care. If you’re staying in Sauzal, carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable and have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide