One of Spain's most visited tourist destinations lies in the Atlantic Ocean off the north eastern coast of Africa. The archipelago known as the Canary Islands has become a year-round tourist getaway and nowhere more so than Tenerife, the largest of the seven islands that make up the Canary Islands. Attracting about ten million tourists every year, Tenerife's visitors are well catered for. From small private guesthouses to five star hotels Tenerife has this and everything in between for those who land on its shores.
As befits an island, beach life is one of its major attractions. The south of the island is where all the major beach resorts are located thanks to the climate which is drier than the more humid, tropical north. Many of the five star hotels Tenerife boasts are in the southern part of the island. Playas de las Americas is the most well known beach resort and popular with those who like a lively nightlife, it is a mecca for tourists from northern Europe, but perhaps not to everyone's taste. A popular destination in the north of the island is Puerto de la Cruz. This is another busy resort area and is close to the Orotava Valley which hosts fruit plantations which take advantage of the tropical climate. There are plenty of nearby attractions like a water park, beautiful beaches as well as the delights of the old town. This picturesque area has cafes and bars lining its cobbled streets. Whether north or south the most popular tourist beaches have imported white sand rather than the local volcanic black sand. There are beaches which do have black sand though and many tourists enjoy this unique attraction. Playa de la Arena is the best known of the black beaches. Its facilities are great and the scenery beautiful.
Tenerife is also the host of many festivals and cultural events through the year. In February there are carnivals throughout the island. The most important carnival is held in the capital city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with most events taking place in the port area. For 27 days participants wear amazing costumes and dance to the many street bands. There are parades and salsa bands to enjoy. Musically, the island is also home to some renowned cultural events. The classical music festival held in June attracts well-known orchestras and soloists. In September the Sabandeno Festival celebrates folk music, whilst the Opera Season lasts from October to December. With its weather, beaches, cultural events and luxurious five star hotels Tenerife really is a destination which has something for everyone.
Tenerife isn't just about beaches however and the inland provides as much beauty and interest as the coast. The most popular tourist destination on the island is Mount Teide. This is the highest peak in Spanish territory at over 12,000 feet. Located in the Teide National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, the volcanic peak can be reached either on foot or by cable car. The cable car takes you within a few feet of the crater but a special permit is needed to go right to the edge. Aside from Mount Teide itself, the National Park also has some unique and interesting flora and fauna. Many visitors also enjoy visiting Pico Viejo, the second highest peak in the national park, as well as Los Roques de Garcia. These are some curious rock formations created by wind erosion; the most famous of these is the Cinchado.
Business travellers are well catered for in Tenerife. There are convention centres and the five star hotels Tenerife is home too also offer excellent business amenities whether hosting major conferences or smaller, more private meetings. One of the most interesting places for a convention is the Piramides de Guimar. Located between the north and south coast and surrounded by stunning scenery, these six pyramids date back to Tenerife's pre-hispanic times. These pyramids are similar to others in other cultures in different parts of the world. As well as a museum detailing facts about the pyramids there are also facilities for the hosting of congresses or conferences. It is truly a unique place for this kind of event.
With its year-round sunshine, its beaches, its volcanic landscape, its fantastic tourist infrastructure and wonderful range of hotels, Tenerife truly does make an ideal holiday destination!
Euro Currency
0.7861
- |
0.7729
- |
1.2435
- |
0.0099