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Tenerife
Where snow capped mountains overlook sun baked beaches
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, means snowy island in the language of its aboriginal native inhabitants, the Guanches, as testament to Mount Teide, the dormant volcano which is Spains highest peak. The mountain in the centre of the island affords Tenerife two very different climate zones. The south of the island is relatively arid and almost constantly sunny, whilst the north is more lush and green. The two climates also mark a difference in lifestyles; the South is home to plush modern hotels, varied nightlife and beaches, whilst in contrast the North has a more laid back feel with abundant flora and fauna, stunning scenery and a thriving arts and cultural scene.
to look out for is Papas Arrugadas; salty potatoes cooked in their own skins and often served with two olive-oil based sauces mojo picon (spicy) and mojo verde (green). Of course, for the less adventurous, the island has an abundance of international restaurants.
What to do
The island is ideal for sun seekers. However, if you like to get out and about whilst on holiday, Tenerife has plenty of activities to offer. Teide National Park offers stunning volcanic scenery and dense forests. The cosmopolitan capital Santa Cruz with its broad avenues and leafy squares is certainly worth a visit. Here you feel as if you have been transported to a chic Mediterranean city as you meander through the streets lined with pavement cafes and shops sporting familiar designer labels. Puertos near neighbour, Tenerife Oratava, is one of the oldest towns on the island and offers many historic buildings, squares and churches, as well as several fascinating vineyards to visit. The neighbouring island of La Gomera is just 40 min from Los Cristianos by ferry and is a world apart from Tenerife, with magnificent scenery and almost no development.
Resorts
Puerto de la Cruz is on the North coast of the island and combines a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere with a beautiful setting. Popular with the more mature market, the warm temperatures, sparkling waters, cobbled streets and numerous bars and cafes create the perfect opportunity for relaxation. In contrast the resorts of Playa de Las Americas and Los Cristianos in the South cater for the younger market with numerous bars and nightclubs. Playa de Las Americas is Tenerifes largest development and offers ample shopping opportunities, many beaches (protected by breakwaters) and night clubs. The old fishing village of Los Cristianos has grown into a town which blends into Playa de Las Americas but has a touch more sophistication, as well as a superb beach. The rural village of Arico is situated in the South East, in the foothills of the Teide National Park. The area is marked by traditional farmhouses and small quiet fishing villages dotted along the coastline.
How to get there
Tenerife is served by two airports. Reina Sofia, 10 km from the resorts in the South, is served by all major airlines from the UK, with flights on most days of the week. Los Rodeos airport in the North is served mainly by scheduled flights from Gatwick and is just 20 km from Puerto de la Cruz. We can offer transfers between either airport and most accommodation.
Average temperatures
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 21 21 22 23 24 27 29 30 28 26 24 22
Average days of sunshine*
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 22 24 22 24 25 27 29 27 25 21 22 21
What to eat
The food of the Canary Islands mixes Spanish recipes with African and Latin American influences. The basis of this is a variety of fresh vegetables, fruit and fresh fish. One dish
100
*Above figures are for South Tenerife
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