Tenerife
The island of Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and one of the largest in the archipelago, with an area of over 2000 km². Its highest point is Mount Teide, a majestic volcano which, at 3,718 metres high, is the highest peak in Spain and a natural icon of the island. Tenerife is famous for its diversity of landscapes, ranging from imposing mountains to beautiful beaches, and for its subtropical climate which, combined with its varied geography, offers a great diversity of microclimates throughout the year.
The island was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986, in recognition of its rich ecosystems and unique biodiversity. Tenerife is also a major tourist destination, known for its vibrant culture, natural landscapes and clear skies, ideal for astronomical observation.
The central area of Anaga, in the north of Tenerife, is covered by a luxuriant and ancient laurel forest, where species such as laurel, heather and Canary Island pine predominate. This uniquely beautiful natural environment is a haven of biodiversity and a perfect example of Canary Island flora. The green valleys and steep mountains intertwine with the coastal cliffs, creating a breathtaking landscape that offers a striking contrast to the nearby ocean. Anaga is undoubtedly one of the most unique and protected corners of Tenerife.
In the southern part of Tenerife, there are vast expanses of volcanic lava fields, formed by past eruptions. These areas, with their ground covered with volcanic rocks and solidified lava structures, create a dramatic and unique landscape that reflects the island’s intense volcanic activity.
The island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is a vibrant and modern city, but with a rich history that is reflected in its architecture and culture. Set between mountains and coastline, the city offers a unique style, with landmarks such as the 18th-century Iglesia de la Concepción Church and the Museum of Nature and Man, which houses an interesting collection on the natural and cultural history of the Canary Islands.
It covers an extension of more than 30 km from the Parador Nacional de las Cañadas del Teide to the Mirador de La Fortaleza, in the central part of the island.
Both observation points must be visited to enjoy the magnitude of this impressive volcanic landscape. From the Parador Nacional, located at the foot of Teide, there is a spectacular view of Pico Teide, Spain’s highest volcano, and the vast lava fields that surround the area. A few kilometres away, the Mirador de La Fortaleza viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Cañadas del Teide, which looks like a landscape from another planet, with unique rock formations such as the Roques de García.
The entire Teide National Park is located within the municipality of La Orotava, and within its boundaries are some hiking routes, such as the famous route to Pico Teide, which allows you to ascend to the crater of the volcano and enjoy one of the most impressive views of the entire island. At the base of the ravines, you can also find small areas of vegetation such as pine forests and heathland.
Along the route, travellers can enjoy different viewpoints, such as the Mirador de la Tarta or the Mirador de Chío, which offer spectacular views of the volcanic formations and lunar landscapes that characterise this area. Finally, for those looking for a place to relax, the Teide Cable Car is an excellent option to climb up to 3,550 metres and enjoy the incredible beauty of the area.
It covers an area of more than 10 km from the Mirador de Masca viewpoint to the coast of Los Guios, in the northwestern part of the island.
Both lookout points should be visited to admire the breathtaking beauty of this isolated valley and the spectacular views of the Barranco de Masca, which winds through the mountains and down to the sea. From the Mirador de Masca, located high up on the mountain, you can see the deep ravines and traditional houses of this picturesque village, considered one of the prettiest in Tenerife.
The picturesque village of Masca belongs to the municipality of Buenavista del Norte, and along the ravine there are trails that allow you to explore the landscape, such as the famous Ruta de Masca, which descends to the beach of Los Guios. This hiking trail is a challenging but fascinating route, where you can enjoy the native flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking views of the cliffs.
The route through the Masca ravine is also famous for its unique flora, with species endemic to the island, and for its views of the Los Gigantes cliff, which rises majestically in front of the ocean. Arriving at Los Guios beach, visitors can relax in a small natural paradise surrounded by cliffs.
Masca is an ideal place for lovers of nature, hiking and spectacular views, a special corner of Tenerife that combines natural beauty with tranquillity and authenticity.
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Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África (Santa Cruz de Tenerife):
- Ubicación: Calle de San Sebastián, 47, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
- Descripción: Este es el mercado más famoso y emblemático de Tenerife. Inaugurado en 1943, es un lugar vibrante y lleno de vida, donde se pueden encontrar productos frescos locales como frutas, verduras, pescados, embutidos, carnes y panadería artesanal. Además, en el mercado también hay puestos que venden artesanía local, flores y productos típicos canarios.
- Horario: Lunes a sábado, de 7:30 a 14:30. Algunos puestos pueden tener horarios extendidos
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Mercado de la Laguna (La Laguna):
- Ubicación: Plaza del Cristo, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife.
- Descripción: Este mercado ofrece una experiencia similar a la del Mercado de África, pero en la ciudad de La Laguna. Aquí puedes encontrar productos frescos de la isla, desde pescados, carnes, frutas, verduras, hasta productos ecológicos y artesanales. También es un lugar donde se encuentran puestos de comida típica canaria.
- Horario: De lunes a sábado, de 7:00 a 15:00.
Restaurants:
El Rincón de Juan Carlos (Los Gigantes)
A Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, known for its excellent modern Canarian cuisine, based on local island ingredients.
La Cúpula (Costa Adeje)
This signature cuisine restaurant, with spectacular sea views, is ideal for those looking for a high-end dining experience.
Los Roques (Garachico)
A Michelin-starred restaurant famous for its innovative cuisine and its fusion of Canarian flavours with contemporary touches.
El Tablón (Santa Cruz)
Restaurant specialising in tapas and traditional Canarian dishes, popular with locals for its homemade food and friendly atmosphere.
Mesón el Monasterio (San Miguel de Abona)
Offers typical Canarian food, with a spectacular view of the mountains and a menu centred on grilled meats and traditional dishes.
GUACHINCHES (TYPICAL CANARIAN RESTAURANTS):
Guachinche El Cordero (La Orotava).
Famous for its roast lamb and traditional Canarian dishes. Guachinches are ideal for enjoying home-cooked food in a rustic atmosphere.
Guachinche La Era (La Laguna)
Known for its homemade dishes, such as papas arrugadas con mojo (wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce) and puchero canario (Canarian stew). It’s the perfect place to try local food in an authentic atmosphere.
Guachinche El Jardin del Chorro (El Sauzal)
A charming place offering traditional dishes with a rustic touch and a family atmosphere. The local wine and tapas are highly recommended.
Guachinche El Parador (Tacoron)
- Acantilados de Los Gigantes – Santiago del Teide
- Loro Parque – Puerto de la Cruz
- Playa de las Teresitas – Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Masca – Buenavista del Norte
- Jardín Botánico – Puerto de la Cruz
- Punta de Teno – Buenavista del Norte
- La Laguna (Ciudad Patrimonio de la Humanidad) – San Cristóbal de La Laguna
- Cueva del Viento – Icod de los Vinos
- Playa de la Arena – Santiago del Teide
- Playa de Las Gaviotas – Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Playa Jardín – Puerto de la Cruz
- Playa de la Arena – Santiago del Teide
- Playa del Duque – Costa Adeje
- Playa de los Cristianos – Arona
- Playa de Benijo – Anaga
- Playa de la Tejita – Granadilla de Abona
- Playa de El Médano – Granadilla de Abona
- Playa de la Veta – Los Silos
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Zona Recreativa Cho Pancho – San Miguel
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Zona Recreativa Las Lajas – Vilaflor
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Zona Recreativa Chinyero – Santiago del Teide
- Route to Pico del Teide – La Orotava: This is the best known route in Tenerife, leading to the highest peak in Spain, Pico del Teide. There are several options, but the most popular is from the Refugio de Altavista to the summit, with breathtaking views. If you don’t want to do the full hike, you can take the Teleférico del Teide.
- Masca – Buenavista del Norte Route: This is one of the most spectacular routes in Tenerife, running from the picturesque village of Masca to the beach of Los Guios. It is a challenging route, but offers breathtaking views of the ravine and the ocean.
- Los Roques de García – Teide National Park Route: This is a shorter hike, but very popular due to its unique views of the Roques de García, iconic rock formations found in the Teide National Park. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy volcanic landscapes without taking an overly demanding route.
- Barranco del Infierno Route – Adeje: This route runs through an impressive ravine, passing through a landscape of lush vegetation, cliffs and waterfalls. It is a moderate route, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the island.
- Anaga Route – Path of the Senses – Santa Cruz de Tenerife: This short but spectacular trail takes you through the laurel forest of the Anaga Rural Park. It is a route that allows you to enjoy the scents, sounds and landscapes of the forest. Ideal for nature lovers.