A short trip to Tenerife is always a good idea, the welcoming, mild climate of the largest of Canary Islands for which it earned a nickname of being the ‘island of eternal spring’, makes it an ideal getaway any time of the year. There are numerous things you can do in Tenerife, from hiking, enjoying the nature and water sports to exploring the culture and nightlife, but, if you are visiting for a limited time, here are our recommendations on how to get the most of what the island has to offer.
One thing is for sure – it is definitely great to have a car in Tenerife – the island is very well connected with good roads that are easy to navigate and you can circle around the island in just a couple of hours.
1. Accomodation
There are all the types of accommodation you can possibly wish for – from low budget hostels to 5* hotels and exclusive resorts. The place we chose was just perfect – a small, idyllic haven in the middle of nature, but not far from Puerta de la Cruz, one of the largest cities located in the Norther part of the island, El Refugio Apartments and Villa offer everything you could possibly need: from beautifully decorated space to stay in, wonderful garden and relaxation area, with pool and sauna, to the incredible view of the impressive Mount Teide and the sea.
2. Visit Teide National Park
Located in the centre of Tenerife, Teide National Park is something you have to see – the volcanic landscape is unlike anything you have seen and will make you feel like you are on another planet. You can enjoy the numerous hikes in the area and, if you are fit, also hike to the top of the volcano – the incredible Mount Teide. If you are not up for the hike or just don’t have time, take the cable car, the view from the top of the magnificent Mount Teide is simply mesmerizing.
3. Enjoy many wonderful beaches
Whether you like rocky or sandy beaches, Tenerife will thrill you with their beauty! From the wonderful, a bit wild and rocky, Playa De Rojas with the most beautiful views, to the sandy Playa de Las Teresitas, you will simply enjoy being connected with the Ocean.
4. A trip to Masca Valley
The drive itself is already an adventure and, please, if you are not a very experienced driver, do take the public transport, as the serpentines can feel like being in an adrenaline park. However, the trip is totally worth it as, situated at the western part of the island, at 750 m height in the Teno mountains, the picturesque Masca village gives a spectacular view of the valley with its lush vegetation. One of the many legends surrounding the area says that, once upon a time, the valley was a hiding place for pirates – and though it is not proven, we can certainly see how it could be true.
5. Eat local food
Surrounded by the ocean, Tenerife is a gastronomic paradise for anyone enjoying seafood. With many markets and restaurants with delicious local food, you will not go hungry – we can definitely recommend fish and shrimps in La Gaviota, close to the southern airport and their mango dessert is just mouth-watering.
6. Chill at El Medano beach
A visit to the El Medano beach is an absolute must – a heaven for surfers and kiters because of its location where it is always windy, this beach gives a truly breath-taking sight.
7. Plan when to come back
No matter how many places you managed to visit and how many things you experienced, you will certainly want to come back to Tenerife – so while you’re there, note all the additional recommendations and places you didn’t have time for, so you can visit it next time.
Tenerife is a love that you always return to.
