Our eyes were opened during a recent visit to Tenerife the island in the Canaries. We thought the island was just the destination for the low end package holiday market.
But get away from the beaches and there is a lot to see and do.
Here is our Top Ten Must dos in Tenerife
- Visit Teide National Park: located in the centre of the island, it features the island’s most iconic landmark and must-see: Mount Teide.
- Watch whales and dolphins: the warm, crystal clear waters surrounding the south coast are home to around 500 resident short-finned pilot whales and many bottlenose dolphins.
- Take in a show at Auditorio de Tenerife “Adán Martín”: a stunning opera house and contemporary landmark in the city of Santa Cruz.
- Seek out Tenerife wines: with a wine tradition dating back to the 15th century, Tenerife is blessed with award-winning wines thanks to the properties of its volcanic terrain, mild climate and variety of grapes.
- Enjoy local food: traditional cuisine is available throughout the island, with many restaurants offering “papas arrugadas” accompanied by delicious “mojo” sauce.
- View Los Gigantes Cliffs: the jaw-dropping 600 metre-high walls which drop down to the sea are one of the most photographed natural attractions on the island.
- Bath in the Natural rock pools at Garachico: the natural sea water pools made of lava are filled with sea water, providing a splash with a twist.
- Roam the Anaga Rural Park, one of Tenerife’s best kept secrets features laurel forests which have remained untouched for millions of years.
- Hike the Masca Gorge: a deep ravine suited to fit and active adventure enthusiasts.
- Go star gazing: With one of the most important solar observatories in the world and clear dark skies, Tenerife offers the chance to see the Milky Way, nebulas and shooting stars; a sensational experience!