Taste Journey in an Ancient Canarian Village

If you’re looking for a taste of Tenerife that goes beyond the usual tourist spots, the Taste Journey in an Ancient Canarian Village offers a charming, hands-on experience rooted in local traditions. Set in the picturesque village of Chirche—an area dotted with ancient terrace fields and threshing grounds—this 2-hour workshop combines culinary fun with authentic storytelling. Led by Chef Ave, who previously worked as a chef de cuisine on cruise lines, you’ll learn how to craft traditional mojos with fresh, local ingredients, then enjoy your creations alongside stories about local food and culture. The price is quite reasonable at around $33.25 per person, and with limited group sizes of up to 8 travelers, you’ll get plenty of personal attention.

What makes this experience stand out is its blend of interactive cooking and storytelling, which creates a warm, authentic atmosphere. I love how the setting—an original 200-year-old house—adds a sense of stepping back in time. Plus, the fact that the tour includes a walk around the village and a chance to sample local wines makes it feel less like a cooking class and more like an immersion into Canarian life. One other highlight is Chef Ave’s engaging commentary—she keeps the atmosphere lively and informative without turning it into a lecture. On the downside, transport isn’t included, so it’s worth planning your arrival if you’re staying nearby.

Key Points
– Authentic Setting: The village of Chirche itself offers a glimpse into Tenerife’s past, with historic fields and traditional houses.
– Hands-On Experience: Making your own mojo sauces with a mortar and pestle means you get to truly connect with local culinary traditions.
– Informative and Entertaining Guides: Chef Ave offers lively commentary and stories that deepen your understanding of the ingredients and their history.
– Affordable Value: At just over $33, the price includes a cooking lesson, refreshments, storytelling, and tastings—making it quite a flavorful value.
– Ideal for Food Enthusiasts: Those interested in local culture, traditional recipes, or simply trying something different will find this perfect.
– Limited Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention, making the experience more intimate and enjoyable.

An Authentic Taste of Tenerife: What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point—Calle San Felipe in Chirche—you’re stepping into a quiet, authentic corner of Tenerife. The village’s traditional charm is immediately apparent, with views of old terrace fields and mountain scenery. If you’ve read the reviews, you’ll know that many describe this experience as a wonderful introduction to the island’s culinary and cultural landscape.

Your hosts—Erik and Ave—are welcoming and informative, with Erik often taking the lead in sharing stories about Tenerife’s past and present life. The workshop is small, maxing out at 8 participants, ensuring everyone gets hands-on time and personalized guidance. While there’s no included transport, the meeting point is accessible via public transportation, and the location feels well worth the effort.

Learning to Make Mojos

The core activity involves creating mojo sauces, a staple of Canarian cuisine. Ave directs the process, guiding you through using a mortar and pestle to grind local ingredients into flavorful sauces. Many reviews mention that the preparation is fun and authentic, with a tangible connection to local food traditions. Plus, you get to taste your handiwork—paired with traditional potatoes, bread, and a glass of local wine or refreshments—giving you an immediate sense of how essential these sauces are in Canarian cuisine.

The Village Walk & Stories

Once your mojos are ready, the group takes a short walk around Chirche, which many reviewers describe as a highlight. Erik shares insights into how the village’s history and geography shaped local life. You’ll pass through old threshing grounds and take in mountain views—perfect for photos and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Expect to learn about the history of potatoes in the Canary Islands and how the southern part of Tenerife came to be settled, enriching your understanding of the local culture.

Tasting and Socializing

The event culminates with a tasting of your homemade mojos, enjoyed alongside bread, potatoes, and locally sourced refreshments. It’s a convivial setting—many reviews mention the friendly, warm atmosphere, and the opportunity to chat with fellow travelers. Drinking local wine and sharing stories turns what could be a simple cookery class into a memorable social experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group activities. Foodies eager to learn about traditional Canarian cuisine will find plenty to enjoy, especially since the hands-on mojo making fosters a real connection with local ingredients. It’s also perfect if you’re seeking a cultural highlight away from the crowds, as the village setting offers a peaceful, immersive atmosphere.

Those interested in stories about local life, potatoes, and Tenerife’s mountain heritage will appreciate Erik and Ave’s engaging commentary. The experience suits solo travelers, couples, or friends wanting a relaxed, memorable afternoon. Since the activity is suitable for everyone and has no health limitations, it’s accessible for most visitors.

However, keep in mind that transport isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. Also, if you expect a highly “touristy” presentation or native Canarian hosts, this might be organized by a Baltic family, which some reviews pointed out—but many found the authenticity still intact due to the setting and the heartfelt nature of the activity.

Practical Details & Tips

• The workshop lasts approximately 2 hours and starts at a flexible time, with bookings often made about three weeks in advance.
• Cost is roughly $33.25, which covers the class, instructor, refreshments, storytelling, and tastings—offering excellent value for a culturally rich experience.
• The meeting point in Chirche is accessible via public transportation, but organized transport isn’t provided.
• The experience is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a short walk and hands-on cooking.
• If you have specific dietary restrictions, check ahead with the provider—though the focus is on traditional and local ingredients.
• This activity is perfect for those wanting a genuine local experience, not just a quick tasting or group tour.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For about the cost of a nice meal, you get more than just food—you’re gaining a slice of Canarian life, with stories, history, and local flavors woven into every step. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn traditional recipes or a culture seeker who wants to see Tenerife beyond its beaches, this experience offers genuine insight in a cozy, scenic setting.

The small group size and engaging guides make it feel very personal, and the authentic village environment enhances the experience’s charm. Plus, making your own mojo sauces is a fun, memorable activity anyone can enjoy—no cooking skills required. Many reviewers rave about how it made their Tenerife trip extra special and wish they’d done it sooner.

If you’re after a peaceful, authentic slice of Tenerife that combines food, culture, and stunning mountain views, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a lovely way to connect with local traditions and meet fellow travelers in a genuine setting. Just remember to plan your transport, and you’ll leave with new skills, tasty memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for how much history and heart are packed into those simple mojo sauces.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transport isn’t included. You’ll need to get to the meeting point at Calle San Felipe in Chirche, which is accessible by public transportation or taxi.

How long does the experience last?
The workshop lasts about 2 hours, giving ample time for hands-on making, storytelling, and tasting.

What is the maximum group size?
Participation is limited to 8 travelers, so you’ll get personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the cooking class, instructor, refreshments, storytelling, and tastings. It does not include transportation.

Is this activity suitable for children or people with health limitations?
Yes, it’s suitable for everyone with no health restrictions—easy to follow and no strenuous activity involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What’s the best way to prepare for the experience?
Wear comfortable clothes and be ready to get a little hands-on. No special preparation needed—just an appetite for learning and tasting.

Are the hosts knowledgeable about Tenerife’s culture?
Absolutely. Erik and Ave share stories about the village, local traditions, and the significance of the ingredients used, adding depth to the experience.