Due to its year-round good weather Tenerife is called the island of eternal spring. The biggest of the Canary – though still only roughly 1200 square miles in size – is blessed with beautiful scenery and wonderfully hospitable locals, the Canarios, making this the perfect holiday destination.
Tourists have long discovered the island, which has done a great job of making them feel welcome and create the necessary infrastructure to accommodate them. Most visitors stick to the south where it is always sunny and dry, whereas the north can get cloudy and experiences the occasional rain shower. We recommend that you still visit the northern area, as its scenery is simply stunning.
The volcanic origin of Tenerife would be hard to deny, as the evidence rises 12,200 feet into the sky: Pico del Teide, the highest mountain on Spanish territory is covered in snow from November to March and can be climbed during the summer months, granting a formidable view over the other Canary Islands. Even the approach by car is an adventure, as you will cross a moon-like landscape with rugged craters and spiky rocks.
Going north from Pico del Teide via winding roads you will reach the greenest region of the island within roughly half an hour. The view over green valleys and – as you approach Puerto de la Cruz – the ocean is magnificent and you should plan in some extra time to get out of the car and take in the moment here and there.
One of the highlights in northern Tenerife is the Orotava valley. The best viewpoint from which to observe the valley as well as Puerto de la Cruz, the small harbor town, is Mirador Humboldt. From here continue to the town for some shopping, a tasty meal of fresh seafood and a visit to the zoo, including the dolphinarium and a great penguin center.
From Puerto de la Cruz it is only a short trip to the wine-growing region of Icod de los Vinos in the north-western part of Tenerife. The vine groves are gorgeous, and on a long walk you might just pass the island’s oldest dracaena tree, which has been here for a thousand years.
While in the area do not skip a visit to Garachico, a small village by the sea. This might be the most authentic example of old Tenerife fishing villages with beautiful churches and typical architecture. Here an insider tip: take the small road into the mountains to Mirador Garachico where you can get a bird’s eye view over the village.
Speaking of views: from Punta de Teno on the north-western shore and accessible only via dirt roads you can see the western neighbor La Gomera. This is also where you can take the best pictures of the shoreline, dominated by huge, steep cliffs, called Los Gigantes.
Whether sunny south or green north, a ticket to Tenerife is a ticket to guaranteed relaxation. On top of this, a car will allow you the flexibility and mobility to enjoy more than just the weather: a diverse island with countless remote treasures of which you can pick your personal favorite.
