Tenerife travel guide
Meet TenerifeTenerife weather reportGetting into TenerifeTop attractions in TenerifeGetting around Tenerife Where to eat in TenerifePage 2: More information on Tenerife
Meet Tenerife
Few places in the world can outdo the allure and sublime landscapes of the Canary Islands. Perhaps this is why the cluster of Spanish isles located only a few miles away from Africa’s northwestern tip have attracted so many of the world’s greatest civilizations from the Greeks to the Romans, Arabs, Portuguese and Castilians. Today they are most renowned for their year-round sunshine, making them ideal for relaxation.
Tenerife is the largest of the isles, and perhaps the most popular among British and continental visitors due to its buzzing nightlife. For an authentic experience, Easter is an ideal time to visit the island as it’s filled with Spanish holiday makers and less crowded by foreigners, but the summer’s energetic vibe can also offer an unforgettable experience. However, Tenerife’s extraordinary natural beauty, comprising tropical forests, volcanic sceneries, deserts and exotic beaches is sure to appeal whatever the time of year.
Families in search of relaxation and local culture should head to its northern locations like Puerto de la Cruz, while young party goers should head to its south where clubbing and bars operate literally 24-hours of the day.
Tenerife weather report
Tenerife is known as the ‘island of eternal spring’ for its year-round temperatures that average around 21° centigrade in the winter and 26° centigrade in the summer. Of course the summer is the best period to visit the island if you are craving sunny beaches, but early autumn will certainly not disappoint with less crowding and lower prices.
Rainfall on the island is minimal, but summer winds can be a problem. The southern part is usually hotter, whereas the north tends to be more wet, which explains its lush vegetation.
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Tenerife
Tenerife has two airports, Tenerife South (Reina Sofia) close to Los Cristianos and Tenerife North (Los Rodeos) close to the small town of La Laguna. Public buses connect the two airports with almost every town in the island, but if you are heading towards the other side of the island, it’s preferable to take a taxi or hire a car as you may have to change routes. If you arrive at night, taxi or car hire is your option as night buses are not available.
Top attractions in Tenerife
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The stout El Teide towers above the island, as this is Spain’s highest mountain and a dormant volcano, measuring 3.718 metres. Take the cable lift to reach its highest accessible point at 3550 meters or alternatively climb from the “Montaña Blanca” peak (2200 meters). You can take a break at Altavista Refuge (3270 meters) for a drink, lunch or to spend the night. Special permission is required to visit the volcano’s crater on the peak. Beware of altitude sickness and possible snowstorms in the winter.
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Parque Rural de Anaga is a must-see for hiking lovers. The various routes available comprise lush vegetation, sublime cliffs and terrifying deserts. Visit the famous Pico del Inglés for a stunning panoramic view of the island.
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Beaches are the ultimate hot-spot on the here. Playa de las Americas is the most popular, but the less crowded locations in the north are also enjoyable. Taganana, Roque las Bodegas and Almáciga are well worth a visit. Water sports such as snorkeling, surfing, windsurfing, parasailing and canoeing are available in most areas. Scuba Divers in particular will be mesmerised by the variety of underwater excursions and characteristically warm water, the latter being side effect of the island’s volcanic nature.
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Tenerife’s Güímar Pyramids have sparked a historical conundrum surrounding their construction. The most plausible archaeological hypothesis is that they were built by its former residents, the Guanches, a non Indo-European, blond tribe that vanished long ago. The theory that the Canary Islands are the tallest peaks of what used to be Plato’s mythical Atlantis lends credit to these claims.
Getting around Tenerife
Walking is a good option if you are planning to stay in the city, but hiring a car would be preferable if you want to explore the island, especially the wilderness sites in the north. Unfortunately cycling is inconvenient because of the busy roads and the little space remaining for bikes. Taxis are also convenient and not very expensive. Public buses are frequent, connecting most towns and if you buy the special travel card for tourists you can save some money.
Where to eat in Tenerife
Local recipes of the Canary Isles, a spicy mix of Spanish, Arabic and African cuisine, include the delicious mojos (local sauces), papas arrugadas (potatoes cooked unpeeled) and gofio, a local type of flour made of cereals used for pastry
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Cumbres de Abona is an traditional restaurant located in the small village of Cruz de Tea where all the local recipes mentioned above can be found
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Patio Canario in the small town of La Laguna is another traditional restaurant, hosted in a house reminiscent of old Castilian luxury. Seafood is the house special here
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Altanoor in Las Playas de las Americas serves the island’s best Arabic food with delicious dishes such as Tabbouleh and Fatayer
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La Papaya is an easy-going garden restaurant at Puerto de la Cruz where you can sample all the local specials, such as tapas and papas arrugadas
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Café de Paris at Puerto de la Cruz is one of Tenerife’s classiest options comprising a garden restaurant and bar with tasty albeit slightly pricey food