Tenerife Guide
Dramatic volcanic scenery and
black sandy beaches vie
for your attention on an island that is just
drenched in sunshine all year round. Tenerife may be closer to Africa than
Spain but this is most definitely Spanish with relaxed, unhurried days
where things hot up as the sun goes down.
Tenerife is also known as the sub-tropical Canary Island, Tenerife boasts
plenty of lush vegetation and sophistication and a slightly cooler climate
in the north around Puerto de la Cruz, while it's wild and hot down south
at Playa de las Americas a favourite for both families and younger
tourists alike.
There are plenty of activities available for the more active visitor: parascending, jet skiing, para-gliding, go karting, tennis, golf and the complete range of watersports. The Anaga mountains at the northern tip of the island offer some excellent walking.
Food: Try the paprika potatoes papas arragadas, enjoy the fresh seafood or a bowl of pataje vegetable soup.
Nightlife: The place to go is Playa de las Americas on the Veronica Strip with non-stop music, clubs, bars and casinos. Check out The Arena and Linekers Bar. Puerto de la Cruz hosts a more sophisticated crowd.
Shopping: The Canary Islands are duty free so you'll find plenty of bargains. Santa Cruz itself is cheaper than the resorts especially for spirits and tobacco. Look out for good deals on leather, jewellery, cigars and perfume.
Days out: Ride 12,000ft up a volcano in a cable car on Mt. Teide, Spain's highest mountain; relax at The Lido Martianez; go on a Jeep safari from Puerto de la Cruz; tigers, dolphins and exotic parrots at Loro Parque; take a trip to one of the smaller Canary islands: La Gomera, La Palma or El Hierro.
Events: One of the world's largest carnivals dominates Santa Cruz in February, the week before Shrove Tuesday. A second carnival begins in Puerto de la Cruz the Saturday after Shrove Tuesday.
In November, a wine tasting festival can be enjoyed, celebrating San Andrés in Icod, La Orotava, as well as Puerto de la Cruz. Cultural events to keep in mind include the Music Festival of the Canary Islands in June; Opera Season throughout October, November and December, as well as the Sabandeño Festival in September. Tourist information telephone number (UK): +44 (020) 7499 0901.
Tenerife Resort Information
Callao Salvaje
(40 minutes from Reina Sofia airport). Quite, scenic resort on the
west of the island offering quite nightlife. Suits couples and
families.
Los
Cristianos
(20 minutes from Reina Sofia airport). Featuring a
pedestrianised old port and the island's best beaches, Los Cristianos
is also near the party resort of Playa de las Americas. Lively,
but not too loud, with something for everyone.
Los
Gigantes
(60 minutes from Reina Sofia airport). A scenic and relaxed resort
with a large, black sandy beach which suits couples. Situated
on the tip of the west coast this town gets its name from the giant
cliffs that tower the town. Geared toward the tourist this its
construction is mainly hotels and apartments. It boasts many bars and
restaurants and also a tennis and sports centre. A car is recommended
to visit other parts of the island.
Playa de las Americas
(25 minutes from Reina Sofia airport). Main tourist
area of Tenerife this town is very busy and cosmopolitan. Restaurants,
Bars, Discos, Casino, Beaches. Situated 22 km from airport. The town
itself is constructed of mostly hotels and apartments providing the
required tourist accommodation for the extremely popular resort.
Not for quiet family holidays or honeymooners.
Puerto de la Cruz
(75 minutes from Reina Sofia airport). A quiet, sophisticated
resort in the lusher, breezier north of the island, where the famous
Lido is situated and some notable botanic gardens. The old-town
atmosphere suits couples and families best.
Puerto de Santiago
(90 minutes from Reina Sofia airport). Still shows signs of
its hilly fishing-village roots on the south
western side of the
island. Rocky area good for
snorkelling. Recommend car for visiting other parts of island.
Suits couples and families
looking for peace and quiet.
More Tenerife Resort Information
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