Tenerife

In addition to its 400-year history, Tenerife is a must for those seeking the dazzling natural beauty of the Canaries mixed with historical architecture and resort-style pampering.

Puerta de la Cruz is a unique resort city as it has not forgotten its old-town origins. The cobbled walking street of Las Lonja offers spectacular views of the old city. Several architectural delights fill the old town square, including the 16^th century San Francisco and San Juan church, the Royal Customs House, and the Calle Valois with the Ventosa Tower.

La Laguna is the island’s old capital and is located in the stunning Aguere valley. Several noteworthy cathedrals and churches can be found here as well as a wide range of excellent museums documenting the island’s rich maritime history.

The coastline spanning Play de Martianez has black-sand beaches, swimming pools and restaurants. In addition, the ancient fortress called Plaza del Europe offers views overlooking the sea. Resorts at Punta del Hidalgo and Bajamar are both popular tourist destinations with five-star hotels.

Travelling by car into the region’s parks and countryside reveals a stark contrast of landscapes. These range from barren deserts to mountainous rainforests. Hiking through the Orotava mountains allows access into the Cañadas del Teide National Park. A volcanic crater with a diameter of 48kms, out of which rises Mount Teide - the highest peak in Spain, can be found here.

Tenerife’s range of resort and beach offerings is very impressive. The former fishing village of Los Cristianos is now one of the most sought-after resorts in the Canary Islands. Beaches are plentiful, some even with freshwater options, and all with their own resorts.

Tenerife has two airports, something no other island in the Canaries can claim. Most domestic traffic is handled through the northern facility of Los Rodeos. International flights operate through Reina Sofia Airport in the southern region. A ferry departing from southern Spain docks at Tenerife once a week and car hire is available at the airports.