Casa de los Balcones
Casa de los Balcones
A 17th-century manor house, Casa de los Balcones is the symbol of Canarian colonial architecture. Its galleries of sculpted timber and lace workshop make it an unmissable stop in La Orotava.
Casa de los Balcones is a 17th-century manor house nestled in the heart of La Orotava, Tenerife's colonial town. Its galleries of carved Canary pine, which overlook a flowering interior courtyard, have become the emblematic image of traditional Canarian architecture. Today the building houses a vibrant craft space where lace makers and embroiderers carry on local traditions.
Quick info at a glance
- Admission: paid (museum and interior courtyard); the artisan shop is freely accessible
- Recommended duration: 30 to 45 minutes
- Access: La Orotava's historic centre, on foot from Plaza de la Constitución
- Transport: TITSA bus from Puerto de la Cruz (line 345); limited parking in town centre
- Accessibility: partial access — the courtyard is accessible, some upper floors are not
What to see
The façade on Calle San Francisco reveals two levels of finely worked dark timber balconies. The interior courtyard, paved and adorned with tropical plants, offers the most photographed view. Inside, rooms display colonial furniture, local ceramics and traditional Canarian costumes. The embroidery workshop, visible from the courtyard, demonstrates the direct crafting of calado, the openwork lace typical of La Orotava.
History and context
Built around 1632, the house belonged to a noble family of La Orotava. The architecture reflects Mudéjar influence adapted to local resources: Canary pine, abundant on the slopes of Teide, replaces stone for the balconies and coffered ceilings. The building was restored in the 20th century and repurposed as a showcase for island craftsmanship, without losing its original structure.
Visit highlights
Canary pine balconies
The superimposed galleries, hand-carved, represent the best-preserved example of this architectural style unique to the islands. Observe the details of the balustrades: each small column is carved differently.
The calado workshop
Artisans work on site creating Canarian openwork lace. You can watch them at work and purchase pieces directly — tablecloths, blouses, hand-embroidered handkerchiefs.
The interior courtyard
Central fountain, bougainvilleas and ferns frame a cool space even in summer. The light is softest here mid-morning.
Photography tips
Morning light (before 11am) illuminates the façade without backlighting. From the courtyard, frame upward to capture both levels of balconies with blue sky as backdrop. Avoid flash inside the rooms. The shop and workshop are generally open to photography, but check on arrival.
Location and access
Casa de los Balcones is located on Calle San Francisco, in La Orotava's historic quarter, about 8 km south of Puerto de la Cruz. The town centre is walkable: Plaza de la Constitución is two minutes away, and the Church of the Conception five minutes on foot. From Puerto de la Cruz, the TITSA bus is the simplest option; by car, parking in the historic centre is difficult.
Nearby attractions
- Victoria Gardens — botanical terraces with views over the Orotava valley and Teide.
- Church of the Conception — baroque façade and turquoise domes, symbol of La Orotava.
- Puerto de la Cruz — lively seaside resort a few kilometres away, home to Loro Parque and black sand beaches.
- Teide National Park — accessible by car from La Orotava, ideal departure point to reach the volcano.
Frequently asked questions
Access to the artisan shop is free. Entry to the museum and interior courtyard is paid. Exact fares should be confirmed on site or with La Orotava's tourism office.
Allow 30 to 45 minutes for the courtyard, rooms and workshop. If you wish to purchase craft items, add a little extra time.
Yes. The historic centre can be visited entirely on foot. The Church of the Conception, Victoria Gardens and Casa Lercaro are all within ten minutes' walk.
Photography is generally tolerated in the courtyard and workshop. Confirm the rules at the entrance, especially for the museum rooms.
La Orotava is pleasant year-round thanks to Tenerife's temperate climate. In June, the town organises the famous flower carpet (Corpus Christi) in front of the town hall — a rare opportunity to see the town in celebration.
The interior courtyard is accessible at ground level. The upper floors and some museum rooms feature stairs without alternatives, limiting full access for wheelchair users.
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