The Canary Islands are one of the most popular destinations in Spain. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Morocco, these seven islands are an ideal holiday destination all year round. During a visit to the islands you will be able to enjoy local delicacies, spring weather, visits to museums and a variety of water sports. If there is an island that has it all it is, undoubtedly, Tenerife.
Head to the south… for beaches.
The beaches of Tenerife attract thousands of tourists each season. The island does have its fair share of beaches, from the volcanic, black sand beaches of the north to the golden sands of the south. Do not miss the two most popular beaches: Playa de las Ámericas and Playa de los Cristianos, both of them known for their variety of resorts and beach villas available for rent. If you want to relax on a less crowded beach, then Playa del Duque on the Adeje Coast is your ideal place. Do not forget to book your beach hotel in advance: the island’s famous Carnival and spring weather mean that it is a very popular destination for a beach break all year round.
Take a trip to the Giants.
The Giants, los Gigantes, is a set of large cliffs located on the south and west coasts of this island. The majestic cliffs are a short ride away from the main resorts in the south, and are the ideal destination for a day trip. Join one of the many excursions that take you to the cliffs by sea: during the boat ride you will be able to catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales.
Climb a volcano.
The tallest Spanish peak is the Teide, an ancient volcano that can be found on the island of Tenerife. Even if you do not want to climb up to the top, make sure to visit the Teide National Park, the ideal place where to watch the sun set. This national park is known for its reddish geological formations which give the island a rather Martian landscape. If you want to see the sea of clouds natural phenomenon, then you will have to take the cable car to the top of the mountain. The views are worth it!
Visit the museums in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The largest city on the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is filled with bars, restaurants, museums and shops. The city center, with its cobblestone streets and benches decorated with ceramic tiles, has many boutiques, markets and shops. The city’s restaurants offer a variety of international food and traditional dishes: do not miss the famous papas arrugadas, potatoes boiled in their own skins served with a spicy sauce, the mojo picón.
What the city is known for the most are its museums. If you are interested in biology, botany and history, then the Museum of History and Man is the place for you. This museums has halls where you will be able to see mummies of the ancient tribes who used to live on this island, pieces of plants that can be only be found in the archipelago and a variety of ancient pottery and weapons. The nearby colonial cities of Puerto de la Cruz and La Laguna offer more museums.
