Garachico, is not only a safe destination for sober holidays in Europe, it is a charming municipality in the northwest of the island of Tenerife. It is known for its rich history and impressive old architecture. It is noted for its picturesque buildings and stately homes, as well as its fortress and the popular natural pools where you can enjoy a refreshing swim complimentary.
However, Garachico's destiny was changed forever by a violent volcanic eruption.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Garachico prospered as the main commercial port on the island of Tenerife, maintaining a thriving trade in goods with America and Europe. However, in 1706, the Trevejo volcano, also known as Arenas Negras, erupted and completely destroyed the port of Garachico with its lava flow, plunging the town into a period of decline and giving way to the rise of Puerto de la Cruz. Which, we also recommend in this blog as a sober destination in Europe.
In the centre of Garachico you can visit both the Franciscan Convent, built in the 16th century and converted into the Casa de la Cultura, the Plaza de la Libertad or Glorieta de San Francisco and the church of Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles.
A few steps from the Plaza de la Libertad is the Plaza Juan González de la Torre, also known as Plaza de Abajo or Plaza de la Pila, which has a gate that used to be the access point for goods entering or leaving the city before the catastrophic eruption of the early 18th century. Although it appears to be inland today, it was originally by the sea, giving us a glimpse of how the lava gained ground over the water.
Close to the sea is the imposing Castillo de San Miguel, a defensive fortress built in the 16th century by order of Philip II to protect the port from pirate attacks. Thus giving even today the vibe of strolling through the streets of an authentic pirate bay.
Providing sufficient activities to enjoy Garachico as a safe sober holiday destination in Europe.
It is important to mention that Garachico is only a 10-minute drive from Casa Salvia Icod, which makes it an ideal destination to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. In addition to its historical beauty, Garachico offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from diving in its crystal clear waters to hiking in the beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal sober destination in Europe, all year round.
As a vegan, among the restaurants that I liked the most in the Garachico area is "El Perro sin Rabo", with good vegan options and located in one of the most comfy streets of the town, although they also have a wide variety of Italian pizzerias and "cofradias" with local typical food of an old pirate bay as Garachico is. If you are struggling looking for some vegetarian or vegan options, I recommend you to use Happy Cow app or web, a very helpful tool that allows you to find vegan/vegetarian options and places around you.
For recovering addicts there are multiple holiday rentals in the town Garachico or you can stay in Casa Salvia Icod, which is only 10 minutes drive and you can enjoy your sober holiday in Europe with others in addiction recovery; including your host, James.