Holidays to Tenerife

Culture

As a small island in the Atlantic Ocean, Tenerife has been accustomed to influences from other nationalities with many different cultures visiting over the years, as well as the dominant Spanish influence since the 15^th century. Although this has been embraced and assimilated, the people of Tenerife have held onto their own traditions too, a quality they are extremely proud of. The culture here is incredibly vibrant with something new around every corner. From the museums and galleries in the cosmopolitan Santa Cruz, to the quaint cobbled street of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife is exemplary in displaying Spanish customs and traditions, while also making sure you’re never short of something to do.

Top 5 things to do in Tenerife

One of the unmissable attractions on offer in Tenerife is the idyllic village of Masca, hidden away, this spot is often considered the islands own version of the mystical Shangri La. Offering a rich cultural heritage and picturesque views, Masca juts out precariously from the side of the mountains in the north-west of the island. After squeezing through the narrow switchback road that corkscrews up and down to the village from Santiago del Teide, you’ll breathe a sigh of relief on making it to mysterious Masca. Those who aren’t afraid to get off the beaten track will be rewarded with this remarkable slice of history that has barely changed in centuries. How’s that for a hidden gem?

Outdoor adventures in Tenerife

While the weather in Tenerife is ideal for roasting on the beach all day, it’s not too hot to get a bit more active and seek out some adventure. With over half the island covered in nature reserves, you’ve no excuse not to get out there! Offering a wide variety of landscapes and terrains, the island is perfect for hikers, mountain bikers and cyclists alike. If you really want to get back in touch with nature on your holiday, you could go on a trip to spot some of Tenerife’s natural flora and fauna. With over 50 endemic species of bird and flower, there’s plenty to keep you occupied on your quest to become one with the island. If that hasn’t sated your need to seek out the local wildlife, try your hand at some scuba diving. With over 60 dive sites and dive schools that operate the whole year round, Tenerife is perfect for exploring wreckages and witnessing the marvellous sea creatures that lie within. 

Beaches in Tenerife

If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at a bit of kite-surfing, you’ll want to head for the resort of Médano in Granadilla de Abono. Well known amongst adrenaline junkies for its opportunities to get extreme. Just half an hour’s walk away is a popular favourite, and one of the islands largest natural beaches, Playa Tejita.  Simply follow along the resorts main beach and keep heading towards Montaña Roja, aptly translated to Red Mountain, and you’ll be there in no time.

If you like to let it all hang out on holiday, head to the nudist section in the cove directly under the mountain, but don’t worry if not because the rest of the beach is non-naturist. Despite its artificial qualities, Las Teresitas Beach is still a sight to behold, and well worth checking out on your trip to Tenerife. With imported sand from the Sahara Desert, this man-made wonder is lined with idyllic palm trees and is just a ten minute drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. If public transport is more your thing, you can alternatively catch the 910 bus. If you do visit, make sure you stay for dinner as the neighbouring fishing village of San Andres offers a plethora of top-class seafood restaurants. With most of these eateries filled entirely with locals, you’ll know you’re in for an unforgettably fresh meal!

Food and drink in Tenerife

Prepare yourself for a taste explosion when you hit Tenerife, as like all the Canary Islands, it offers a range of gastronomic delights, blending traditional Spanish dishes with African and Latin American influence. Definitely check out the gofio, a staple of the Canarian diet that they swear by. Made from toasted cereal, it’s believed to have been the primary food of the native Guanches people, so you’ll also be getting a history lesson if you pick this on the menu.

Sea food enthusiasts will surely be in heaven, as Tenerife offers an endless supply of fresh seafood; with the specialties being lobster, crab, dorada bream, mussels, oysters and all manner of fabulous fish. For our money, check out some of the spots in the Costa Adeje and Golf del Sur resorts for a taste that won’t leave your tongue for weeks!

Tenerife family holidays

Siam Park is one of the most sensational-looking white knuckle water rides on Tenerife, and possibly even Europe. Temples, oversized dragons and grotesque giant masks help create a little piece of Thailand on a hillside above Costa Adeje. 

The intimidating 28 metre Tower of Power and the Dragon will test the most fearless adrenalin junkies whilst the Lost City is specially designed for smaller children. If extreme thrills don't appeal, floating down the Mai Thai River, or basking on the white sands of Playa Siam should suit those looking for a more relaxing experience. It's a must for anyone into wet and wild fun. There are whale and dolphin watching trips galore from Los Gigantes, Los Cristianos and Puerto Colón. Look out for vessels affiliated with Tenerife's Quality Tourism Services in particular, as these follow recognised whale and dolphin watching guidelines.

Tenerife couples holidays

Often considered a haven for partiers and revellers, Tenerife is also the ideal location for a romantic break with that special someone. After a long day of sightseeing and walking, you’ll be ready to chow down on some delicious seafood and stare longingly into your other half’s eyes... If you want our expert advice, make sure you pay a visit to Tasca Tierras del Sur located at Granadilla del Abona. Offering the most mouth-watering authentic dishes the island has to offer, this restaurant specialises in octopus and fried green peppers. It may be off the beaten track a little, but seek it out and you’ll score brownie points for being well informed. This is a must-visit for the ultimate romantic meal, perfect for a special occasion.