Tenerife’s rich Canary history is deeply intertwined with its vibrant agricultural heritage, particularly the captivating Canarian potatoes that have flourished on the island since the 17th century. With 29 distinct varieties, these potatoes are celebrated for their diverse flavors and textures, from the nutty purple to the creamy yellow. Visitors can enjoy this cultural legacy by exploring the historic Camino Real trail, which showcases the sustainable farming practices that preserve these heritage crops. Delving into Tenerife’s culinary identity reveals a tapestry of tradition and innovation – a journey that promises to tantalize the senses and pique the curiosity of the adventurous traveler.
Key Points
- The Canarian potato heritage dates back to the 17th century, with 29 unique varieties that are deeply rooted in the island’s cultural identity.
- The tour highlights the significance of the historic Camino Real trail and showcases the local sustainable farming practices used to cultivate these rare potato varieties.
- Visitors can expect to sample a variety of organic Canarian potatoes, each with their own distinct flavors and textures, such as the nutty and slightly sweet purple potatoes.
- The tour provides an immersive and educational experience, allowing participants to learn about the preservation of these unique potato varieties and the community’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
- The tour is accessible by car or public transportation, and the itinerary includes a walking component, making it suitable for visitors of all ages who are prepared for uneven terrain.
Tour Overview and Details
The tour, which costs $27.78 per person, runs for 2 hours and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
It’s a small-group experience capped at 8 participants, with tour guides offering the tour in both Spanish and English.
The guided walking tour starts at the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Buen Viaje in Icod el Alto.
Highlights include exploring the historic Camino Real, visiting the birthplace of colored Canarian potatoes, and learning about sustainable farming practices.
Customers are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Transportation by car or bus line 354 from Puerto Cruz or Icod de los Vinos is advised.
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Experience and Itinerary
Exploring the historic Camino Real kicks off the tour, providing a glimpse into culturally significant paths traversed over centuries. Next, visitors venture to the birthplace of colored Canarian potatoes, marveling at the 29 unique varieties cultivated since the 17th century. Throughout the experience, guides share insights into local sustainable farming methods, culminating in a tasting of rare organic Canarian potatoes.
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Historic Camino Real | Walk along this culturally significant path |
| Canarian Potato Heritage | Visit birthplace of colored Canarian potatoes |
| Sustainable Farming Practices | Learn about local sustainable farming methods |
| Potato Tasting | Sample rare organic Canarian potatoes |
Important Information and Recommendations
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, hiking shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.
The tour operates rain or shine, though severe weather may lead to rescheduling. Travelers can easily access the starting location by car or bus line 354 from Puerto Cruz or Icod de los Vinos.
The tour is suitable for all ages, but participants should be prepared for walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
While the tour is primarily focused on exploring the historic Camino Real, visiting the birthplace of colored Canarian potatoes, and learning about sustainable farming practices, visitors can also expect to sample the rare organic potatoes grown in the region.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
With a solid 5-star rating based on 1 review, the tour has earned consistent praise from past participants. Customers highlight the knowledgeable guide, interesting content, and highly recommend the experience for future bookings.
The tour’s standout features include:
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A great guide who brings the history and culture to life
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A fascinating exploration of Canarian potato heritage and sustainable farming
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The opportunity to sample rare organic potato varieties
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Highly recommended for those seeking an immersive and educational experience
Reviewers emphasize that this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in learning about Tenerife’s rich agricultural and cultural traditions in an engaging and enjoyable way.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBooking Information
Customers can check availability to select their preferred number of participants, tour date, and language on the booking platform.
A ‘reserve now & pay later‘ option is available, and the tour package includes insurance coverage. This ensures flexibility and added protection for customers.
The process is straightforward, allowing users to easily secure their spot on the tour.
Once booked, customers can look forward to an immersive experience exploring Tenerife’s Canarian history and discovering the fascinating world of colored potatoes.
With clear instructions and inclusive amenities, the booking experience complements the tour’s engaging itinerary, making it a seamless and enjoyable process from start to finish.
Canarian Potato Heritage
Tenerife’s Canarian potato heritage dates back to the 17th century, boasting an impressive 29 unique varieties cultivated on the island.
Visitors can learn more about this vibrant local tradition on the tour, which takes them to the birthplace of these colorful potatoes. The tour highlights:
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The significance of the historic Camino Real trail
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Sustainable farming practices used to grow these potatoes
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The opportunity to taste rare, organic Canarian potato varieties
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How these potatoes have become an integral part of the island’s cultural identity
Exploring Tenerife’s potato heritage provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s agricultural legacy and the preservation of traditional foodways.
It’s an experience not to be missed on a visit to this Canary Island.
Sustainable Farming Practices
The tour highlights the local sustainable farming methods used to cultivate the rare Canarian potato varieties.
Visitors learn about the importance of preserving these unique potatoes and the environmentally-friendly practices employed by the farmers.
They’ll discover how crop rotation, natural pest control, and minimal use of synthetic fertilizers help maintain the soil’s fertility and biodiversity.
The farmers also utilize renewable energy sources like solar power to reduce their carbon footprint.
Attendees gain a deeper appreciation for the local potato heritage and the community’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Potato Tasting
Visitors can sample a variety of rare organic Canarian potatoes during the tour, including the unique colored varieties cultivated in the region since the 17th century. The potato tasting allows participants to experience the diverse flavors and textures of these heritage crops.
Some highlights include:
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Purple potatoes with a nutty, slightly sweet taste
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Yellow potatoes with a creamy, buttery texture
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Red potatoes with a firm, waxy consistency
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Blue potatoes with a vibrant color and earthy flavor
These potatoes are grown using sustainable farming practices, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the region’s rich agricultural heritage while savoring the distinct culinary delights of the Canary Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take the Tour With My Pet?
The tour provider does not allow pets to accompany participants on the tour. The tour is focused on exploring the area’s history and agriculture, and the presence of pets could be disruptive to the group experience.
Is There a Vegetarian or Vegan Menu Option?
The tour does not offer a specific vegetarian or vegan menu option. However, the potato tasting experience can likely accommodate dietary restrictions by providing alternative potato preparations. Guests should inquire about options when booking the tour.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera or Will One Be Provided?
The tour doesn’t provide cameras, so you’ll need to bring your own to capture the scenic highlights. Feel free to take plenty of photos to remember your experience exploring the historical Canarian potato farms.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want More Time?
The tour duration can be extended for an additional fee, though this must be arranged in advance with the tour provider. Extensions are subject to availability and may incur extra costs, so it’s best to inquire about options prior to booking.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?
The tour has a small group limit of 8 participants. There is no minimum group size requirement, so you can book this tour even if you’re traveling solo or with a small group.
Recap
Tenerife’s vibrant cultural heritage is beautifully showcased through its renowned Canarian potatoes.
Exploring the historic Camino Real trail offers an immersive experience, where sustainable farming practices preserve these heritage crops.
From the nutty purple to the creamy yellow varieties, each potato’s distinct flavor and texture is a testament to the island’s culinary identity – a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
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