On the coast of Santa Cruz de Tenerife lies a botanical garden with an exceptional past. The Palmetum was not created on an old estate or in a natural forest. The garden stands on a former municipal landfill site.
The artificial hill was transformed into a green space covering approximately twelve hectares and specialising in palm trees. Where waste was once dumped, rare plants from tropical and subtropical regions now grow.
Europe’s largest collection
According to the official organisation, the Palmetum has the largest collection of palm trees in Europe. It may even be the world’s largest botanical collection specifically devoted to palms from tropical islands. The plants arrived in Santa Cruz through cooperation with botanical institutions from various countries.
The garden is divided into geographical zones. During a walk, visitors travel, as it were, from the Caribbean to Madagascar, Polynesia, Australia and Southeast Asia. Each zone contains species typical of a particular climate or island region.
Ponds, rock formations and waterfalls create a range of different habitats. Plants are not the only ones to benefit from them. Birds and insects have also discovered the garden.
Pleasant to explore on foot
The higher paths offer views over the ocean, the harbour and parts of Santa Cruz. From some locations, the white building of the Auditorio de Tenerife can also be seen.
Around two hours is a comfortable amount of time for a relaxed visit. The paths are wider and more even than many natural walking routes on Tenerife. This makes the Palmetum suitable for visitors who enjoy walking but prefer to avoid loose lava stones and steep mountain paths.
There are still some changes in elevation. Anyone who finds it difficult to walk for long periods should take regular breaks. Places to stop, stand or sit are spread throughout the grounds.
A damaged site given a new purpose
The Palmetum is open throughout the year, including Sundays and public holidays. Its usual opening hours are from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. The entrance gate closes at 5.00 p.m.
Santa Cruz can be quite hot in September, so visiting when the garden opens is the best option. Although there is plenty of vegetation, not all paths are shaded. Water, sunscreen and a hat remain essential.
The garden is located close to the Auditorio de Tenerife, the Castillo de San Juan and the Parque Marítimo. A visit can therefore easily form part of a relaxed day in the capital.
The Palmetum is not only interesting because of its plants. Above all, it shows how a damaged urban site can be given a new purpose. The former rubbish mound has been transformed into a place for nature conservation, education and relaxation.
This story makes the Palmetum one of the most surprising attractions in Santa Cruz.
Photo: AI ChatGPT
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