Tenerife
13 things to do and see in Tenerife and 3 not to doOver two thousand kilometers of surface, approx one million inhabitants, thirty-one municipalities highest peak in all of Spain, as well as the third largest volcano in the world (the Teide, preceded by the Tamu massif in Japan and by the Mauna Loa in Hawaii). Few numbers to testify the greatness, and above all the tourist importance of Tenerife, the most urbanized and cosmopolitan of the Canary Islands. Not surprisingly, one of the most used slogans is "1000 experiences on one island" and indeed it is. From the beaches and the nightlife of Playas de las Americas, to excursions in the Teide National Park, obviously without forgetting the historic center of La Laguna and the leisure opportunities of the capital Santa Cruz, Tenerife is an island to be discovered. Below we see the main attractions of the area. Happy reading.
1 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
At the beginning we referred to the many experiences that the island offers the visitor. From this point of view Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a perfect compendium of the extraordinary mix of cultural heritage and environmental variety at the base of the tourist fortunes of the area. The capital of the Canary archipelago (together with Las Palmas on the island of Gran Canaria) boasts many arrows in its bow: churches, museums, art galleries, beaches, parks, modern design buildings, shops and restaurants in large quantities. We report the Garcia Sanabria Park, a splendid natural oasis not far from the city center e Las Teresitas Beach, the largest beach in the city which is about seven kilometers from the center. Don't miss the Museo de La Naturaleza y el Hombre, undoubtedly the main attraction of Santa Cruz followed, closely, by theHall designed by Spanish star architect Santiago Calatrava. Last but not least the Santa Cruz Carnival which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world to the island. Generally the Carnaval of Tenerife (carnavaldetenerife.com) lasts for about 3 weeks from the beginning of February and, according to many, for participation and scenography, it is second only to that of Rio de Janeiro. Not to be missed!
2 Playa de las Teresitas
Playa de las Teresitas is the most famous beach in Tenerife. Of course, for some years now it has had to contend with the beaches of the southern coast (see Playa de las Americas) but, despite the competition (so to speak), this beach at the foot of the Anaga Mountains retains its primacy. First of all because it is the beach of the capital Santa Cruz, and then because in addition to the beauty of the places it boasts an excellent • innovative business organization based on the use of technologies and digitalization of internal and external processes, as well as the active and continued promotion of the services we offer through business development, marketing and communication systems (letter "I" of our logo actually stands for "Innovation");. Let's be clear: nothing comparable to the thousand “devilry” of a Romagna Riviera, but overall everything is available and functional to the needs of bathers. More than a kilometer of completely free beach yet equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas and deck chairs for those wishing to use them (for a fee). It's not over because there are bath, showers (for adults and children), rescue aids in the water, not to mention the local police constantly engaged in supervising the safety of bathers. In short, an effective organization that, as we said, enhances even more the amenity of the place where the numerous palm trees present under which, if necessary, shelter from the sun. Finally a curiosity. The sand, instead of dark as in the other beaches of the island, is clear. The reason is that it was imported from the Sahara desert to increase its exotic effect. Not to be missed!
3 Auditorium
Considered the most elegant building in the Canary archipelago, as well as one of the most representative of Spanish architecture, theTenerife Auditorium is definitely worth a visit. Even those who are not fond of symphonic or chamber music (it is home to theOrquesta Sinfonica de Tenerife) is in fact struck by the way in which the architect Santiago Calatrava has managed to combine the modern lines with respect forAtlantic environment in which the structure is inserted. A white building, in reinforced concrete, in the shape of a sail, surmounted by a dome which instead has the shape of a wave. In short, a futuristic work that gives prestige to the capital Santa Cruz and to the entire island, to the point of having become in the space of a few years (the Auditorium was completed in 2003) one of the main tourist attractions of the area. For more information on scheduled events, opening hours and guided tours visit the Official site: www.auditoriodetenerife.com.
4 San CristĂłbal de La Laguna
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, more commonly "La Laguna", is theancient capital of Tenerife. Since the 20s it has lost its status to the advantage of nearby Santa Cruz, remaining, however, university and bishopric of the island. Aspects that have allowed the city to preserve the cultural primacy and, together with this, also that of the nightlife busiest in Tenerife. The "Cuadrilatero", a very famous area of ​​the historic center, is full of bars and clubs where you mainly dance house, garage, ambient e ethnic music. A young sound that in addition to meeting the tastes of the many students present, winks at tourists who want to have fun until late at night. During the day, however, those same streets fully recover the peculiar historical dimension that in 1999 was worth to the "Histórico helmet of La Laguna " la UNESCO protection between sites World Heritage Site. There are really many things to see, starting with Cathedral up to Loyal Theater built in 1913 by the architect Antonio Pintor Ocete. Separate mention for the "Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos" (Museum of Science and the Cosmos) which, like the "Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre" mentioned above, is absolutely worth a visit. to know more on the main museums of Tenerife visit the place: www.museosdetenerife.org.
5 La Orotava
Not just La Laguna. Pure La Orotava is definitely worth a visit. For two reasons, which are those at the basis of the island's tourist success: the beauty of the historic center, full of churches and palaces of the '500 (do not miss the Casa de Los Balcones, www.casa-balcones.com) and the magnificent valley entirely cultivated in banana trees, chestnut e vine, the main crops of Tenerife. Even the Teide National Park administratively it is part of La Orotava, a circumstance that makes the location one of the favorite destinations for trekking enthusiasts (together with Anaga Mountains, not far from La Laguna). Among the many excursions available, we point out those that start from the small Aguamansa village which, thanks to the moderate slopes and relatively short distances, are also suitable for children.
6 Parque Nacional del Teide
3178 meters tall; 18.990 hectares surface; about 4 million visitors per year; from 2007 UNESCO World Heritage Site. A few significant figures are enough to understand the importance of this national park. To admire its beauty, on the other hand, you have to reach the top ("Pico del Teide ") either on foot or with the more practical cable car (www.telefericoteide.com). Many opt for a "mixed solution" using the cableway to descend after climbing the mountain. It must be borne in mind, however, that the weather variability can cause the sudden interruption of the service, penalizing hikers. As for the things to see there is only the embarrassment of choice: give it Roques de Garcia, pinnacles of petrified lava that are about 2000 meters high (the most famous is the "Roque Cinchado"), to the Pico Viejo (in Spanish "Picco Antico") the mountain responsible for the last eruption in 1798, up toTeide Observatory, one of the best astrophysical centers in the world. Obviously, the climb to the top must be planned in detail. What counts is the time of the year in which you want to make the excursion but, even more importantly, the health conditions matter. Although not the Himalayas, in fact, the air at over 3000 meters above sea level is rarefied, so you need to be sure to physically withstand the reduced availability of oxygen. On the official website of the reserve the activity list, useful information about the park and instructions for book the climb online.
7 Garachico
After La Laguna e La Orotava a visit to Garachico is also recommended. Of the many municipalities in which Tenerife is administratively divided, this village of about 5000 souls is one of the few to have preserved almost intact theCanarian identity. There are no large hotels and there are no beaches. In their place white houses, cobbled streets and beautiful natural pools in which to bathe with the whole family. These pools are not far from the Castle of San Miguel, a small medieval fortress from whose tower you can see a panorama that embraces the town and the Atlantic. Garachico also boasts Italian origins. It was in fact founded by the Genoese Cristofaro da Ponte who in the 500s ensured prosperity and well-being to the town thanks to the skill and contacts of a merchant. A commercial vocation that continued at full speed until 1706 when a terrible eruption devastated the town including the port, the main hub of local development. And, not surprisingly, a bust at the entrance to the Parque de La Puerta de Tierra, where the remains of the port of Garachico are kept, reminds onlookers the historical importance of this Genoese merchant. Interesting!
8 Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes is another tseems unmissable of a holiday in Tenerife. It is a small tourist resort (even if the incessant building development makes the countries of the west coast more and more a conurbation) famous for the homonymous "Acantilados de Los Gigantes", a complex of cliffs overlooking the sea of ​​varying height between 300 and 600 meters. An imposing naturalistic scenario that owes its popularity above all to Diving. It is here, along the submerged base of the cliffs, that, according to most, some of the most beautiful dives on the island are made. It is no coincidence, therefore, that the diving centers are different and all of excellent quality. In addition to diving, Los Gigantes is the base for excursions of whalewatching, as well as parking of taxi-boat commuting with Masca, spectacular village overlooking the sea with a truly dream bay. Wanting, Playa De Masca it can also be reached from the ground but the excursion is long (6 hours round trip) and not without obstacles. Therefore the taxi boats that depart from Los Gigantes represent an excellent alternative both for those who are not used to trekking, and for those who, after reaching the cove by land, prefer to avoid the fatigue of returning. For more information in this regard: www.maritimaacantilados.com.
9 Playa de las Américas
The festive heart of Tenerife. It is here, on the south-western side (including the localities of Costa Adeje e Los Cristianos), which concentrates the bulk of the tourist flow of the island. Or rather, the bulk of tourists who choose Tenerife for a holiday full of sea, sun and nightlife. in conclusion unbridled fun, but also situations suitable for those traveling with children. Over ten kilometers of coastline in which they follow each other restaurants, bar, discotheques, shops, resort, golf courses and obviously, beaches: Los Cristianos Beach (Los Cristianos), Playa de las Vistas (Playa de las Américas), Playa de Troya (Playa de las Américas), Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje) e Playa de la Encaramada (Costa Adeje) the most famous ones, where in addition to lying in the sun or swimming you can practice numerous activities. Give her diving, whalewatching up to deep-sea fishing there really is something for all tastes and needs. Not to be missed!
10 Surfing in Tenerife
The southern side of the island is also famous for surf. Especially from October to March, a Playa de las Americas surfers flock from all over Spain and beyond. The most suitable beaches of South Tenerife are The Palm trees ed The Conqueror, even if you surf the entire coast. There is no shortage of "Dedicated centers" where to rent a board, wetsuit, boots and everything you need to ride the waves safely. Of course it is possible book a lesson (or more lessons) to learn the fundamentals of the discipline. Fun is guaranteed.
11 Siam Park
You wish swoop from one slide of 28 meters? Or surfing in the pool and be spat into the water by a dragon? To the Siam Park, one of the best water parks in the world (certainly the first in Europe), these and other experiences are possible. Yes, because next to more adrenal water games like those just mentioned there are othersInstead, suitable for families with children. And that's not all because the park also has a huge one relax area, in which a wonderful one stands out beach of fine white sand, obviously equipped with umbrellas, sunbeds e deckchair. In short, it will also be a "fun factory" that will turn up their noses at those looking for less commercial emotions, but there is. Also because, as we have seen so far, there is certainly no lack of wilder experiences in Tenerife. to know more about games, attractions, schedules, prices and everything else visit the Official site: www.siampark.net
12 Loro Parque
There is not only Siam Park. TO Cross port, in the north of the island, there is the Parrot park, zoo advertised in every corner of Tenerife. Therefore, in any part of the island you decide to stay, expect to come across a poster, a sticker, a brochure advertising the structure. This zoo is especially famous for hosting the largest world collection of parrots but, over time, the fauna repertoire has become more and more vast: Penguins, turtles, chimpanzee, Sea lions, Dolphins, orcas and even crocodiles; in the 15 and more hectares of this park it is really impossible to get bored. In short, Tenerife winks at everyone: young people, adults, the elderly (the island also has a thermal vocation), hikers, sea lovers, singles, couples and families with children. Mostly, families even with very little children that on the largest island of the Canary archipelago they really have many things to do and see. Loro Parque is proof of this. For more information on the park (same property as Siam Park) visit the Official site: www.loroparque.com
13 The wine of Tenerife
Viticulture has been Tenerife's main economic resource for centuries. Then, during the 900s, things changed and Canarian wine (Tenerife alone produces 50% of the wine of the entire archipelago) lost its original prestige. A prestige due in particular to Malvasia, a vine widespread in many parts of southern Europe and arrived in Tenerife from Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. In the last 30 years, however, wine production has gradually recovered ground. They have increased areas planted with vines, techniques have changed and exports have resumed which in the 700th and 800th centuries had brought Canarian wine to the tables of the most important European courts. Obviously the gap with Italian, French and Portuguese wines remains, but it is progressively narrowing, which is incredible considering the difficult orographic conditions which, in many cases, prevent the complete mechanization of the production process. The vine is in fact grown on terraces ranging from 100 to 1000 meters above sea level. Clearly not only Malvasia is grown. The island boasts an excellent production of reds and, since 1992, the wines of Tacoronte-Acentejo, wine district north of the island, belonging to the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, they got the "Designation of Origin" (DO), the Spanish equivalent of our DOC. In short, a land of Sun, sea e volcanoes it could only boast a quality wine production. Seeing is believing!
1 Beware of pickpockets
Tenerife, but the speech can be easily extended to the entire Canary archipelago, it is asafe island. There are no gangs sharing the control of streets, squares, neighborhoods and alleys, nor are there any particularly heinous news events. The most that can happen is that someone will lighten your wallet (not the bond one!) Maybe while you are on the beach, queuing for the bus, walking along the promenade etc. In short, being an island where people live mainly outdoors, there are favorable situations for the pickpockets there are several. That said, no fear: just a few precaution common sense like closing your purse tightly, avoiding keeping your wallet in plain sight, not running around with a lot of cash and you won't have any unwelcome surprises.
2 Better to avoid the rooms on the lower floors
La hotel choice (click here for those recommended) - you know - it is one of the most important aspects of a holiday, the one from which a whole series of other decisive factors for theoutcome of the stay. Among the different aspects to consider, in Tenerife there is also the room floor. And yes, because especially in the south of the island (Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje), they are many places to stay open all night with the inevitable - and for some unbearable - musical background. Therefore, if you are among those who need silence to sleep, you should choose a room on the upper floors.
3 Pay attention to what to pack
True, the Canary Islands boast a wonderful climate, A kind of permanent spring (although in summer the temperature exceeds 30 degrees) which favors a constant tourist influx 12 months a year. It is also true, however, that the north of the island is windier and rainier of the southern side, without forgetting theexception of Mount Teide that with its 3000 and more meters high deserves a separate discussion. And since at the beginning we said that Tenerife is an island of 1000 experiences it is also necessary to adapt with clothing. Generally a good casual dress, but in your suitcase, in addition to swimsuits, bermuda shorts and sarongs, also put jackets, trousers and sweaters for half times. Obviously, if you are going to do it trekking suitable shoes and clothing are required.
