A visit to the Montesdeoca Goat Cheese Farm in Tenerife is one of the best ways to experience authentic Canarian flavors. This family-run cheese factory has been operating since 1984, and over the years it has become one of the most respected names in Canarian artisan cheese. Their recipes are handed down through generations, using traditional methods with a special local twist – one of the secret ingredients is almonds, which add a unique flavor to their cheese.
Sustainability in Montesdeoca Goat Cheese Farm in Tenerife
What makes Montesdeoca – Goat Cheese Farm so special is not only the taste of their cheese but also their philosophy. The farm is home to around 450 goats, and animal welfare is at the very heart of their work. When baby goats are born, the farm ensures that all the milk goes first to the little ones instead of being used for production. The animals are also fed a carefully varied diet, which contributes to both their well-being and the unique flavor of the cheese.
An especially beautiful detail is how they integrate with the local community: the goats are not only fed hay and grains but also bananas from nearby banana plantations. In return, Montesdeoca provides natural fertilizer back to those plantations, creating a sustainable cycle that benefits both the farm and the island’s agriculture.
The family strives to keep their practices as sustainable as possible, respecting the land, the animals, and the traditions of Tenerife. Everything is done in a thoughtful, small-scale way – far from industrial production.
Over the decades, Montesdeoca has collected an impressive number of awards, both in the Canary Islands and internationally. Their cheeses have won multiple gold medals at the World Cheese Awards, and they’ve been repeatedly recognized as among the best cheeses of Tenerife. Whether it’s fresh, semi-cured, smoked, or cured in gofio or wine, each variety carries its own personality and craftsmanship.
The Experience: From Farm to Table
During the tour of Montesdeoca: Goat Cheese Farm in Tenerife, we were guided around the farm, learning about the care of the animals and the artisanal production process. Fascinating part is that making the cheese is done by hand. This traditional approach makes a real difference in flavor and texture, giving each cheese character that you simply don’t get from mass production.
Of course, the highlight was the tasting session. We had the chance to try three different types of goat cheese, ranging from fresh to two-year-aged. Each had a distinct flavor profile, from creamy and delicate to strong and complex. The most surprising and delicious pairing was the fresh 24-hour-old cheese served with banana marmalade: a combination that perfectly balanced creaminess with sweetness.
Why Visit Montesdeoca - Goat Cheese Farm
Visiting Montesdeoca is more than just a food experience, it’s about connecting with Tenerife’s traditions, values, and people. You see first-hand how respect for animals, sustainability, and craftsmanship come together to create something extraordinary.
Whether you’re passionate about cheese, curious about local culture, or simply looking for a unique and authentic activity in Tenerife, Montesdeoca – Queso de Cabra Canario Artesanal is an experience not to miss. You’ll leave not only with a taste of award-winning cheese but also with a deeper appreciation for the people and practices that keep Tenerife’s culinary heritage alive.
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Photographers & Videomakers:
Karolína Lišková, Barbora Kučerová, Nataliia Tataurova, Luca Buiatti
- Environmental chemist & Sustainable Tourism Consultant: Luca Buiatti
- Social Media Coordinator: Nataliia Tataurova
- Account Manager: Barbora Kučerová
- Project Manager: Karolína Lišková
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