Bargain Alert! 4* Hotel in Tenerife for 2024

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa, but part of Spain. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, black and golden beaches, charming towns and year-round warm climate, Tenerife offers a diverse holiday experience. From adventurous hikes around Mount Teide to relaxing days on the beach or exploring colonial towns, this island truly has something for every type of traveller.

Top Attractions

• Teide National Park: home to Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide (3,718 m), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can hike or take a cable car to near the summit.
• La Laguna: A beautifully preserved colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with colourful architecture, cobbled streets and vibrant student life.
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife: The island's capital offers shopping, museums, a lively food scene and avant-garde architecture such as the Auditorio de Tenerife.
• Los Gigantes Cliffs: Huge cliffs rising from the sea, ideal for boat trips, dolphin watching and sunset views.
• Garachico: A charming town partly rebuilt after a volcanic eruption, with natural rock pools, picturesque squares and historic buildings.

Best beaches in Tenerife

• Playa de las Teresitas: Near Santa Cruz, this is Tenerife's most famous golden beach, with imported Saharan sand and calm waters.
• Playa de las Américas: A lively seaside resort in the south, perfect for sunbathing, surfing and nightlife.
• Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje): An upmarket beach with clear waters, sunbeds and nearby luxury shops.
• Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz): Designed by César Manrique, this volcanic-sand beach is surrounded by gardens and has full facilities.
• Playa Benijo (Anaga): A wild black sand beach with incredible views and fewer crowds, great for nature lovers.

Family-friendly activities

• Loro Parque (Puerto de la Cruz): One of the world's top animal parks with orcas, parrots, penguins and live shows.
• Siam Park (Costa Adeje): A Thai themed water park, voted one of the best in the world, with thrill rides, lazy rivers and splash zones.
• Jungle Park: A zoological park with big cats, birds of prey and a jungle trail experience.
• Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours: Departing mainly from Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje - an unforgettable experience for all ages.
• Mini train rides and playgrounds: Can be found in towns such as Puerto de la Cruz and along the promenades.

Local gastronomy

• Papas arrugadas con mojo: Small wrinkled potatoes served with spicy red (mojo picón) or green (mojo verde) sauces - a Canarian classic.
• Ropa vieja canaria: A hearty dish of chickpeas, minced meat and vegetables, often found in traditional restaurants.
• Gofio: A toasted grain flour used in soups, stews or desserts - a staple of Canarian cuisine.
• Fresh fish (vieja, cherne): Grilled or baked, often served with local potatoes and mojo sauce.
• Bienmesabe: A rich dessert made with almonds, egg yolks and honey, usually served with ice cream.
• Canarian wines: Especially white malvasia and red volcanic wines from Tacoronte or Valle de la Orotava.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

• Masca Village: A stunning mountain village surrounded by cliffs - a top spot for hiking or photography.
• Anaga Rural Park: A lush, mountainous area with laurel forests, hiking trails and hidden beaches.
• Icod de los Vinos: Home to the millennium dragon tree and some of the best local wine cellars.
• Candelaria: A pilgrimage town with a seaside basilica and bronze Guanche statues.
• La Orotava: A historic town full of traditional Canarian mansions and balconies decorated with flowers.