The end of the Festival Internacional Canarias Jazz & Más Músicas Creativas will light the flares of the closure of its 33rd edition in grand style with a long weekend featuring three concerts in Puerto de la Cruz & Santa Ana Square plus occasional visits to El Hierro & Lanzarote Prominent among the groups & artists that will take the stage at the different venues are the Jonathan Kreisberg Quintet Perinké Big Band y la Orquesta Jazz de Canarias Morgan Hernández vs Fernikhan backed by Dj Cisco and Vaneesa Lemoine in the After Concerts The end of the Festival Internacional Canarias Jazz & Más Músicas Creativas will light the flares of the closure of its 33rd edition in grand style with a long weekend featuring three concerts in Puerto de la Cruz & Santa Ana Square plus occasional visits to El Hierro & Lanzarote Prominent among the groups & artists that will take the stage at the different venues are the Jonathan Kreisberg Quintet Puerto de la Cruz will once again open the doors of Lake Martiánez to jazz the tourist complex in the north of Tenerife will host a total of six concerts that will feature some of the best artists programmed in this 33rd edition among them being the excellent American guitarrist Jonathan Kreisberg in a quartet formation and Theo Croker one of the most important emerging artists of the genre and coming to the festival for the second time the Nigerian Adédeji and the new project by Polo Ortí together with the Orquesta Jazz de Canarias complete the musical offering A sequence that is repeated in the capital city of Gran Canaria with only one change in the initial line-up: the Perinké Big Band the concerts have been moved to the municipality of La Frontera where there will be a performance by the Polo Ortí New Project on Friday 26 at 20.30 hours which substitutes the Plaza Tigaday (construction work in progress) quite the reverse – the Plaza del Almacén in Arrecife is consolidated as a meeting place for lovers of the genre where they will get the chance to enjoy two concerts that fit perfectly into the name that distinguishes the festival “Más Músicas Creativas” (More Creative Music) featuring both the timple player from Gran Canaria Germán López who interweaves his songs with traditional music Guitarist and composer Jonathan Kreisberg has built a strong worldwide following and has influenced the next generation of musicians with his unique combination of timeless melodicism and forward thinking lines and textures He is known as a player who has thoroughly studied the language of jazz while enriching it with fresh new ideas Jonathan has led various groups with star musicians and has performed as a sideman with such notable musicians as Lonnie Smith Award-winning guitarist Ana Popovic combines electric funk and slide guitar Add to the mix her incredible stage presence all of which makes her an irresistible force in the world of contemporary blues music Popovic forms part of a select group of excellent modern blues guitar players One reason could be the fact that she’s always willing to work a little harder and travel a little further to master her craft Ana and her powerful band are tirelessly touring Theo Croker is a storyteller who speaks through his trumpet thought leader and influencer projects his voice through music Croker crash-landed with a simmering original sound on the 2014 Dee Dee Bridgewater-assisted album Afro Physicist Following the success of Escape Velocity in 2016 he ascended to a new stratosphere with Star People Nation in 2019 The record garnered a nomination in the category of Best Contemporary Instrumental Album at the 62nd Grammy awards It attracted widespread acclaim from the critics Paste and The New York Times who called it “an album that gallivants from swirling left-field hip-hop beats to propellant swing to entrancing passages of African percussion.” Adédèji is the new phenomenon of Afro Funk in Nigeria nominated as Best Artist 2023 by Songlines and the recent album Yoruba Odyssey is among the 50 best albums of 2023 on World Music Charts Europe & Transglobal World Music Charts His music is a contemporary mix of Yoruba rhythms with Afro Funk and Jazz but at the same time has a totally personal musical style rooted in complex Nigerian rhythms and choirs respecting his roots while taking the music to a contemporary futuristic level with a show and performance that can be compared with artists like Prince A show like a volcanic explosion that is hard to stand still to prompting the audience to sing along as if they already knew the music well Adédèjì is an indispensable artist to feature at any current festival for this 33rd edition of the Canary islands Jazz Festival (Festival de Jazz de Canarias) his new project that brings together a group of young and talented musicians The repertoire will include various genres from original compositions to reinterpretations of classical standards through incursions into various genres such as Jazz Fusion An eclectic musical show that promises a load of energy & spontaneity The participants in his new project are Chipi Chacón (trumpet vocals) Samuel Kèri (electric bass & loops) & Naíma Acuña (drums) Germán López is a timple player who since his professional beginnings has been focussed on the sound possibilities of the instrument away from the folkloric field in a clear commitment to dialogue and fusion with other cultures and artists of different styles it is a work that opens new sonic horizons in his career recorded with the prestigious producer from LA winner of 8 Grammy awards and drummer with Count Basie Gregg has also produced works by Ray Charles The Orquesta Jazz de Canarias (Canary Islands Jazz Orchestra) brings together a cast of Canarian artists from the islands of Lanzarote & Tenerife who have interacted in the Big Band created by René P composer and artistic & musical director who graduated in Musical Performance/Professor of Trumpet and Composition at Berklee College of Music The orchestra has been working for years on the arts & music scene of the islands and Cuba carrying out an arduous cultural task that highlights the original & laborious nature of their projects among them being the didactics it has represented for about 18,000 schoolchildren workshops & events that revolve around an objective theme – open to the public the wonderful doors of the world of music blending & influences of Canarian music The Perinké Big Band was formed in 2004 within the activity of the Professional Conservatory of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria by dissociating itself from the Conservatory would end up consolidating as the Perinké Big Band united under the name of this characteristic endemic reptile of the Canary Islands During all this time it has gradually become one of the most important formations in the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and of Gran Canaria in general besides having a presence in the rest of the archipelago A highlight in its beginnings was the opening concert of the cycle “Noches de Jazz” (Jazz Nights) in the municipality of Firgas in the year 2007 ensemble that started out in the year 2017 is a band formed by seven musicians with extensive experience on the Canarian musical scene and who have merged together in this band of very urban music; a live performance full of energy & songs that vary in their generic conception a term used to describe a kind of music that gets you moving & dancing In their compositions we can enjoy very special and harmonically rich arrangements The songs feature fun & ironic lyrics but are also assertive is an exciting musical ensemble with an impressive variety of styles talent and creativity that come together in a unique symphony that awakens emotions and energy and all with original compositions that leave no one indifferent What makes them really special is their ability to embrace multiple genres The young voice emerging from Fábrica Isleta is that of Vanessa Lemoine and after studying at Fábrica MAT she has now taken the leap to higher education at the University of Basel (Switzerland); nevertheless she still keeps visiting the Canary Islands and for this occasion will delight us with an intimate & special concert where you will be able to listen to the classics of jazz Tenerife – Puerto de la Cruz (Lago Martiánez) After Concerts: Morgan Hernández vs Fernikhan backed by Dj Cisco Gran Canaria – Plaza de Santa Ana (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) Jonathan Kreisberg Quartet / Polo Ortí New Project After Concerts: Vanessa Lemoine Quartet (Buenos Aires Jazz Café © 2025 EmCan Media - Hosted By canaryfone A new survey has identified several sources of marine pollution along the coastline of Puerto de la Cruz confirming that contamination is not originating from a single point but from multiple locations.  The findings were presented yesterday by Ángel Montañés Director General for Ecological Transition and the Fight Against Climate Change following an extensive campaign of water quality analysis and coastline monitoring conducted by the regional government Montañés shared these results during a coordination meeting involving representatives from the Canary Islands Government and the local council of Puerto de la Cruz The meeting focused on the progress of ongoing efforts to address water quality issues affecting Playa Jardín He emphasised that the survey reaffirms the initial action plan enabling authorities to prioritise measures more effectively The Directorate General for Public Health will continue to conduct weekly water quality tests with the option of increasing their frequency if necessary authorities agreed to hold regular discussions between the Pollution Prevention Service and municipal technical teams to efficiently manage the legalisation and improvement of pumping stations These stations will require proper authorisation from the coastal authorities which was attended by technical staff from Balten the manager of Balsas de Tenerife (Balten) outlined the status of work at the water treatment plant commissioned by the island’s Department of Agriculture aims to fully regenerate over 6,500 cubic metres of water reaching the wastewater treatment plant in the Orotava Valley reducing the volume of water discharged into the sea by 70% are expected to be completed within the first half of the year manager of the Tenerife Island Water Council (CIATF) provided updates on repairs to a damaged section of the outfall pipe which will ensure the correct discharge of treated water from the plant Administrative approvals for the project have already been secured Davara noted that the progress of the work will depend on favourable sea conditions in the area the Puerto de la Cruz council reported that efforts are underway to disconnect excess rainwater drainage in La Vera-Las Adelfas Plans are also being drafted for the legalisation of wastewater conduits and the construction of a new sewer network in Punta Brava which will be fast-tracked for urgent tendering These initiatives form part of a broader sanitation strategy aimed at improving the coastal environment Spot Guide: Rincon Queen, of the Coast 6 of the Heaviest Waves in the World Five Decades of Surfing, Travel and Narrative Collide in Sam George’s New Book NewsAll NewsEventsBig Wave NewsWorld Surf LeagueEnvironmentalIndustryWave PoolsPosts List Boat Get Totally Wrecked by Wave in Indonesia (Video) How To Surf Till You're 100, Brainwork: Mickey Munoz Known as a “defender of the land” Cristino Castro Peres was murdered in Barra de La Cruz at 63 years old The sleepy surf community of Barra de La Cruz is not where you’d expect to hear of any serious crimes Only modest homestays and rentals that are all owned collectively by the community The murder of 63 year-old Cristino Castro Perea a community elder and environmental activist has rocked the small surf town to its core “We are mourning the loss of Cristino Castro Peres murdered for his strong defense of one of the world’s most important leatherback sea turtle nesting beaches a RAMSAR Wetland of International Importance and National Sea Turtle Reserve and a globally known surf spot “We stand in solidarity with the indigenous community of Barra de la Cruz who have resisted efforts to develop their communally owned coastline but have suffered violence at the hands of speculators and would-be developers but the very nature of the coastline we have come to love “The indigenous land ownership is what has prevented the development of Oaxaca from the tropical forests of the mountains That’s why Oaxaca doesn’t look like the rest of the Pacific Coast of Mexico.” There have now been two murders of activists in recent months a clear sign that speculators and would-be developers have major interests in the area foul play could continue until the communities feel pressured to vote against their own interests Land grabs can happen quickly when developers have dollar signs in their eyes the international community that loves Oaxaca needs to stay vigilant to support the preservation of the land Barra has stayed true to its puebla roots and everyone in the community knows each other, even though they don’t always agree–there have been attempts over the years to develop the town, but community preservation has prevailed. With Huatulco only some 30 minutes away, full of luxury accommodation options, there is really no need to develop the coast–that’s exactly the appeal of Oaxaca, a wildness and raw beauty of pristine beaches, backed by deep forests, free from luxury developments. HomeDestinationsInterestsTop Places to Travel by MonthSearchMenuBest time to go to Tenerife The "penitents" in pointed hoods and religious statues take over the streets for a week of solemn processions Save Visited Rate Review ShareProcesión Magna in Güímar Viernes Santo (Good Friday)Procesión Magna in Güímar is one of the most important and profoundly ingrained religious holidays in Spain Religious brotherhoods carry elaborate processions with well constructed floats that depict biblical themes through the streets as a way for communities to honor the Passion of Christ you can often see locals wearing traditional clothing and listening to melancholic music Semana Santa is especially well-known for its majesty and seriousness in places like Seville attracting tourists from all over the world to see the show The largest island of Tenerife is no exception to Spain's celebrations and its historical cities see countless religious ceremonies and street processions throughout the week leading to Easter The celebration starts on Palm Sunday and continues to Easter Day most congregations have at least one daily procession with a church service the most remarkable day is Good Friday commemorating the death and burial of Jesus Christ Easter customs in Tenerife feature a range of diverse Canarian and Spanish culinary traditions One of them is "potaje de vigilia," a filling stew made with potatoes This meal is well-known specifically for adhering to the Lenten diet restrictions by omitting meat "torrijas" have also become a popular Easter delicacy They are essentially French toast made with bread pieces dipped in sugar and frequently spiced with cinnamon and honey The most memorable processions involve members of different religious brotherhoods These iconic "penitents" are wearing long cloaks with pointed hoods that totally cover their faces and revealing only their eyes Other participants of solemn parades are "Nazarenos" who typically walk barefoot and carry shackles or large wooden crosses it's common to parade huge floats with heavy religious statues through the streets traditionally accompanied with sombre religious music by a brass band The most elaborate Semana Santa festivities take place in the authentic towns of the island and the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife The most famous celebration is observed in San Cristóbal de la Laguna the religious centre of Tenerife and UNESCO World Heritage Site The very special occasion not to miss in La Laguna is its Good Friday evening procession — Procesion del Silencio or the Silent Procession and the town is illuminated solely by candles The pious brotherhood parade departs at around 9:30 pm from the Iglesia de la Concepción A slow pace set by an ominous drumbeat creates a moving and a bit unnerving atmosphere you are never going to forget Easter Sunday brings the joy of Resurrection and so families celebrate with local delicacies like sancocho (salted fish served with potatoes) Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Tenerife hiking to history (and not a tourist trap in sight) sea and sand is what first drew me to Tenerife a decade ago but it’s the countless cool activities chilled out Latin America-meets-Spain vibes and stand-out food and wine scene that has kept me coming back since – so much so that I’ve even lived there for a time The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is made for holidays, whether that’s classic fly and flop – I’m rather partial to its more than 150 beaches – something more adventurous such as hiking epic ravines and through prehistoric forests, or a hint of culture in its Unesco-protected spaces Here are my suggestions of how to spend your time in Tenerife There’s no ignoring El Teide volcano wherever you happen to be standing in Tenerife – or any the other Canary Islands for that matter – as it’s Spain’s highest mountain The peak of the volcano is only a tiny part of the El Teide National Park (Spain’s most visited) which is popular with hikers and stargazers due to the near-constant clear skies. The cable car to take you almost to the peak is well worth it for the views 🤫 Insider tip: You can climb to the very top The view is most definitely worth the climb: on a good day Some of the most dramatic cliff faces you’ll see Tenerife’s Acantilados de Los Gigantes or ‘Cliffs of the Giants’ have an appropriately grand name: these vast vertical walls of basalt are a product of the Canaries’ volcanic landscape – and We recommend starting a walk at the town of Los Gigantes before winding your way up and along the cliffs If you’re feeling particularly adventurous hiring out kayaks is also a great way to get a full view of Los Gigantes Photograph: ShutterstockWhat is it? Tenerife Espacio de las Artes in Santa Cruz is both an art gallery and library This has to be one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe contemporary vibes with glass and concrete the building is as much a piece of art as the visiting exhibitions from emerging Spanish artists it houses Jump on one of the free tours for a better understanding or check out their events schedule for concerts and exhibitions Photograph: ShutterstockWhat is it? Self-described as the ‘most spectacular water attraction in Europe’, giant water park Siam Park features the biggest collection of Thai-themed buildings outside Thailand With its large number of exhilarating rides this suburban theme park is a must-visit for adrenaline junkies river rapids and flumes are set against a backdrop of sensational Thai architecture which has the seal of approval from none other than the Thai Royal Family themselves Tenerife’s original pop-up restaurants that only open a few weeks a year The island has been known for its wine production for centuries (it was even a favourite of Shakespeare) and when the harvest was done the vineyards would create little temporary canteens in barns Many vineyards in the north still do this and you can get great value food – often grilled meats and potatoes – and wine A botanical garden dating back to the 18th Century with a large range of stunning subtropical and tropical flora Take some time out from the bustling streets of Puerto de la Cruz by stepping into this beautiful garden where you can see all sorts of flora and fauna: from pineapple plants to tall palm trees It's the perfect place to capture some Insta-worthy holiday snaps that will leave your pals feeling jealous Photograph: ShutterstockWhat is it? A city so pretty that even Unesco says so the northern Tenerife city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is an architectural historian’s paradise Its old and new towns blend mudéjar rationalist and contemporary architecture styles in a characterful way as La Laguna was use as the blueprint for many towns and cities in Latin America including Havana in Cuba An open-air swimming pool complex located in the northern town of Puerto de la Cruz it has a total area of approximately 100,000 square meters centred around an artificial lake Lago Martiánez is well-worth the €5.50 entrance fee (€2.50 for children) for a day of sunbathing and chilling out away from the packed beaches which can get particularly busy during the summer It is also home to several of Tenerife artist César Manrique’s incredible sculptures this historic house and museum is highly distinctive The Casa de los Balcones is an architectural jewel in the historic centre of La Orotava on the island's north side Step inside and you will discover a Canarian patio surrounded by samples of typical handicrafts from Tenerife Here you can learn all about the way of life on the island in the past few hundred years Photograph: ShutterstockWhat is it? Lush highlands of jutting peaks and deep ravines Why go? Formed by a volcanic eruption between seven and nine million years ago Anaga is a protected area in the north-east of Tenerife known for its craggy mounts If you fancy an escape to an eerie fairytale wilderness filled with lush vegetation and boasting phenomenal island views Thanks for subscribing! 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About us Contact us We’re thrilled to unveil that the inaugural X: by micebook is heading to the new Gran Hotel Taoro in Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife – an authentic gem where vibrant history meets stunning five-star luxury we’re inviting event professionals to step into the unknown and unlock a programme filled with discovery and unforgettable moments in a setting like no other Gran Hotel Taoro is set to reopen in Tenerife this spring following a major renovation to restore and reimagine the property for future generations three pools and the Sandára Wellness Center “We are thrilled to be working with micebook as host hotel for the inaugural X: by micebook event  This is a great opportunity for Gran Hotel Taoro to host such a prestigious industry event in the hotel’s opening year and showcase the evolution of this iconic luxury urban retreat sitting majestically overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Teide to a valuable audience of event professionals,” said  Rosy Gotlib Director of Sales & Marketing at MyWay Hotels & Resorts “Our UK representative Jo Beames and I look forward to welcoming you to rediscover authentic Tenerife North with its mix of stunning landscapes and the reimagined Gran Hotel Taoro in October.” Located in the north of the island of Tenerife Puerto de la Cruz was one of the first places in the world to attract the burgeoning international tourist trade of the late 18th Century With its long history of distinguished visitors such as Humboldt or Berthelot and its world-famous wines cited in Shakespeare’s plays Puerto de la Cruz is an exciting proposition for planners looking to discover a different side to Tenerife We’re delighted to be partnering with Tenerife Convention Bureau to support with creating an exciting experience that showcases what the destination has to offer “Tenerife is thrilled to have been selected as the host destination for the X: by micebook inaugural event With the re-opening of the newest luxury property on the island it is the perfect time to rediscover Puerto de la Cruz and the Tenerife North area a lesser-known part of the island,” said Diego Fernandez “Delegates joining the event will be up for a treat discovering authentic venues and traditional villages and enjoying incentive activities surrounded by our breathtaking national park that makes Tenerife a surprising destination for meetings and events.” Director of Growth & Creative Strategy at micebook added: “We are so excited to bring our very first edition of X by micebook to Puerto de la Cruz at the fully refurbished Gran Hotel Taoro its little-known location surrounded by botanical gardens and its proximity to surreal volcano landscapes perfectly embrace what X by micebook is all about “We couldn’t wish for better partners to welcome our delegates in Tenerife step into the unknown and to unlock a programme filled with discovery and unforgettable moments in a setting like no other.” A bold new 1-1 networking experience where the future of meetings and business connections is reimagined X: by micebook represents the place where cutting-edge destinations and game-changing ideas are found and meaningful connections forged attendees will embark on a journey unlike any other set against the backdrop of an exceptional international location and collaboration—core elements that are reshaping how we approach meetings Find out more and register your interest now Join our community and receive the latest trending industry news in our weekly Departure Lounge and exclusive invites to events Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Upcoming EventsArticlesSearch Guides Search Supplier DirectoryRequest a DemoHints & Tips About micebookMembership & AdvertisingEvent SponsorshipGet in touch with the Team There are no statistics available for this player Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here The Puerto de la Cruz Town Hall has announced the postponement of the highly anticipated Coso parade originally scheduled for this afternoon (Saturday) along with all other carnival events planned for the weekend due adverse weather conditions and heavy rain in the area Authorities cited safety concerns for both attendees and participants as the primary reason for their decision The council stressed that new dates for the affected activities would be announced soon urging residents and visitors to stay informed through the official communication channels of the Ayuntamiento The Coso Parade of Puerto de la Cruz is a signature event on the municipality's festive calendar drawing thousands of people to the streets each year The decision to postpone it reflects a commitment to ensuring that the event takes place under optimal conditions allowing everyone to enjoy the festivities to the fullest Local authorities have emphasised the importance of prioritising public safety Tenerife is well-loved for its year-round warm, sunny weather and glorious beaches all around its coastline where do you start when it comes to deciding where to stay I’ve been visiting the island for more than a decade and stayed in beach resorts and mountain retreats so I know a thing or two about choosing the right spot Photograph: ShutterstockBest for: promenade strolls and gourmet delights Snag a table by the window for mind-blowing views over Puerto de La Cruz Stay here: For something traditional, bed down at Hotel Monopol with its Canarian pinewood balconies and interior courtyard, or try the laid-back family-run Hotel Tigaiga Photograph: ShutterstockBest for: a little luxury There are some gorgeous beaches along this bit of coast from the popular Fañabe to more intimate Playa del Duque Stay here: The pink-hued Tivoli La Caleta has all the cool beach club vibes and a spa by the famous Anatara group, while the Hard Rock Hotel brings the punk to this piece of paradise Photograph: ShutterstockBest for: city sights carnival and plenty of good spots for drinking swing by La Recova market where you’ll be able to pick up plenty of non-touristy souvenirs including local wine and cheese Stop at La Pamelita café for a barraquito – a layered coffee with condensed milk Photograph: ShutterstockBest for: nightlife Jump on a whale-watching boat and head out into the strait between Tenerife and neighbouring island La Gomera low-impact company that supports conservation efforts Photograph: ShutterstockBest for: stargazing and solitude so ingredients are sourced from within the area Locals and visitors in Puerto de la Cruz got a sneak preview of the city’s latest attraction yesterday (Wednesday) promises to become a permanent fixture in the next few months.  The initiative will not only tour the highlights of Puerto de la Cruz but will also extend to the neighbouring towns of La Orotava and Los Realejos offering a comprehensive tour of the stunning Orotava Valley provided free rides to 12 of the city’s most emblematic locations departing from Avenida Familia de Betancourt y Molina and Avenida Colón The launch of this bus service coincided with the inauguration of the ‘Multicultural Tourism Days’ a festival aimed at celebrating the cultural richness and diversity of Puerto de la Cruz Though this project first surfaced a few years ago as an idea from Ashotel to boost tourism in Puerto de la Cruz explained that the project has grown to include the entire Orotava Valley thanks to the collaborative synergies between the different municipalities Puerto de la Cruz’s Tourism Councillor who has been in office for just over a month is working hard to ensure the service is fully operational by next year Negotiations with the Tenerife Cabildo are still underway as the project involves both the roads and tourism sectors Councillor Delia Escobar is exploring possible routes which could include stops at the Humboldt Viewpoint and a journey through La Perdoma to Los Realejos offering tourists a glimpse of the region’s picturesque vineyards and final routes are yet to be confirmed," she said Navigating Los Realejos’ steep streets poses unique challenges for the open-top bus a complementary "shuttle bus" is being considered which would cover the historic areas of Realejo Bajo and Realejo Alto This alternative route would take visitors to notable landmarks such as the San Pedro Viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the entire Orotava Valley explained that while this shuttle bus wouldn’t be open-top it would be marketed as part of the broader sightseeing initiative providing an enriching excursion throughout the region Puerto de la Cruz and the surrounding areas are set to offer tourists a whole new way to experience the stunning beauty and cultural heritage of the Orotava Valley The National Police have launched an investigation into the death of a 12-year-old girl that occurred yesterday afternoon (Thursday) in Puerto de La Cruz Officers from the Homicide Unit and the Judicial Police Brigade are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy according to police sources cited by Europa Press who was a student at CEIP César Manrique The Puerto de La Cruz Town Hall has expressed its condolences to the girl's family and loved ones during this difficult time a minute’s silence is being held at 12:30pm to honour her memory a Carnival event scheduled for this morning was cancelled as a gesture of mourning the council acknowledged that the tragic loss has deeply affected the local community urging people to show respect and solidarity “It is essential to prioritise the emotional well-being of our students and families at this time,” the statement read reinforcing the need for support and awareness around student mental health and school bullying The Department of Education has stated that there were no official complaints or open protocols in the case of the minor regarding bullying at the CEIP César Manrique The investigation remains open as authorities work to clarify the circumstances surrounding the girl's death The Puerto de la Cruz Council will soon launch an awareness campaign urging residents to properly dispose of their rubbish something that is also a problem in other areas of Tenerife by respecting designated collection times and using the correct bins rather than leaving bags on the street.  The initiative aims to tackle a growing waste management issue in the city exacerbated by people’s failure to follow these guidelines emphasised the importance of community cooperation the city will always have a problem with rubbish." He pointed out that something as simple as flattening a cardboard box or plastic bottle His comments came in response to complaints from residents living near the Iders building where rubbish has been piling up both in and around bins This accumulation has led to the increased presence of rats and cockroaches who distributed information about proper waste disposal schedules large boxes and containers are still being discarded improperly Acevedo expressed confusion over why some residents insist on dumping trash at specific points like Avenida Familia Betancourt y Molina He acknowledged that this was not the only problematic area noting similar issues in other locations like Calzada de Martiánez The councilman explained that waste collection frequency has remained consistent and the city's population has not grown significantly enough to justify the current levels of rubbish being generated he acknowledged that improvements are necessary as the waste collection and street cleaning contracts are under strain He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and residents to resolve these issues Acevedo admitted that it remains a significant challenge until its interior can be thoroughly cleaned He emphasised that while the issue of trash outside can be addressed by both the authorities and citizens collective action is essential to keep the streets clean the City Council plans to review the frequency of waste collection services and explore additional solutions such as increasing the number of big bins in areas where they are most needed The Local Police have identified and arrested three suspects involved in attempting to pickpocket an elderly man in Tenerife thanks to a viral video that circulated on social media was reported in a press release issued by the town hall of Puerto de la Cruz on Friday The attempted robbery occurred on the steps of Camino de Las Cabras in Puerto de la Cruz and involved two young men and a young woman prompted residents to report sightings and descriptions of the individuals involved police were able to locate three people matching the descriptions near the scene of the attempted theft the investigation faced challenges as no formal complaints had been filed by the victim nor were there any witnesses willing to testify police intervention was limited to formally identifying the suspects emphasizing the importance of community involvement in maintaining safety "It is essential that people feel safe in our streets Collaboration between the public and the police is crucial for preventing and addressing crime We extend our gratitude to those who reported this incident," he said who also oversees Public Safety in the municipality stressed the need for open communication between residents and authorities "I encourage everyone to continue working with local law enforcement Your participation is vital to ensuring swift action in situations like this," he added have pledged to maintain a vigilant presence in the area aiming to ensure the safety and peace of mind of residents and visitors alike Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries When it comes to activities A vision of eerie volcanic peaks, misty laurel forests and Atlantic-whipped shorelines, soulful Tenerife tempts with much more than its balmy weather and beach-vacation buzz.  On the largest island in Spain’s Canary Islands you can meander around neighborhood markets and linger at low-key terrace cafes before diving into cutting-edge art And it's all set against a spectacular natural backdrop that feels unlike anywhere else on earth So it is no surprise that while Tenerife remains a top destination for vacationing families and anyone looking for a coastal break it is also increasingly popular among adventure-loving travellers.  From the cultural thrills of the dynamic capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife to otherworldly hikes and visits to high-altitude vineyards here’s are the best things to do in Tenerife Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron – in collaboration with Canarian Virgilio Gutiérrez – are behind the boundary-pushing design of Tenerife Espacio de las Artes On the edge of Santa Cruz’s historic center the island’s unmissable art gallery is housed in a bold concrete-clad building inspired by the surrounding volcanic landscapes Free guided tours offer a detailed introduction to the TEA’s wonders (including a dramatic glass-walled library) and topical exhibitions which often showcase works by emerging Spanish artists Santa Cruz also has one of the liveliest street-art scenes in the Canaries Detour: Puerto de la Cruz’s Museo de Arte Contemporáneo is another treat for art fiends Few visitors can resist the pull of Spain’s highest peak, 3718m (12,198ft) El Teide, which rises at the core of the eerily beautiful, UNESCO-protected Parque Nacional del Teide This is the country’s most-visited national park so it pays to arrive early or linger later into the afternoon And you can still sidestep the bulk of the crowds by hiking out along rewarding trails that plunge across a silent lava-shaped valley or track up near-deserted volcanic cones pretty Vilaflor is the island’s highest village and makes a great place to stop for a meal or overnight.  Santa Cruz’s Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África is the island’s buzziest fresh-produce market paprika and other spices waft through the air as you wander past subtropical plants spreads of Canarian cheeses and counters piled high with fresh seafood The peach-orange building was built back in the 1940s with Islamic-style arches and courtyards Delectable local treats to pick up range from rare Canarian olive oils and island wines to toffee-colored palm honey specialty coffee from La Orotava and tubs of almogrote (a cheese-based paste from La Gomera) Detour: Ask locally about the fun farmers markets held around the island, such as the weekends-only Mercadillo del Agricultor de Tacoronte Standout routes include the PRTF3 through the laurel forest and willow trees (8km/5 miles round trip) and the PRTF8 linking Afur Taganana and Tamadite beach (14km/8.5 miles round trip) On the south-facing side of the range, golden Playa de las Teresitas is one of Tenerife’s loveliest beaches perfect for a refreshing dip after hiking.  Planning tip: The Anaga mountains have become busier with visitors in recent years; if possible explore by walking or on public transport to sidestep potential car parking issues jump in at Charco de la Jaquita in Alcalá (a collection of pools with views of La Gomera) Charco de Isla Cangrejo (overlooking the Los Gigantes cliffs) and hidden-away Playa Abama On Tenerife’s less-touristy eastern shoreline low-key Radazul has ladders plunging into the Atlantic beneath magma-molded cliffs Planning tip: Rough weather and high tides can make swimming dangerous Rivaled only by Cádiz as Spain’s greatest Carnaval city sequin-clad fun for three weeks each February fashion competitions and high-profile galas across town Tenerife’s Carnaval was banned during Franco’s dictatorship but powered on by recasting itself as a “winter festival.” Today the best way to enjoy the festivities is by catching the vibrant parades in action Planning tip: For those who can’t make it during Carnaval itself, Santa Cruz’s Casa del Carnaval gallery offers a taster including gorgeous custom-designed outfits worn by the Reinas (the Queens of Carnaval).  El Médano is a treat for beach lovers too. The main Blue Flag-awarded strand is made up of golden coves huddled between volcanic outcrops, and there are several refreshingly undeveloped  clothing-optional beaches stretching across the adjacent Montaña Roja nature reserve, including Playa La Tejita.  Detour: For classic surfing, Playa de las Américas draws a wave-riding crowd from around October to March and has plenty of schools catering to all levels.  Tenerife’s distinctive climates and abrupt geology mean wine-making here is all about rare Vines have been grown across the mineral-rich lava-flow slopes since at least the 15th century and most are still harvested by hand in the island’s five Denominaciones de Origen (DOs; Denominations of Origin).  Planning tip: Many of Tenerife’s wineries are small independent operations, so it’s best to book visits in advance. Tenerife Wine Experience offers wonderful private bodega-hopping tours limiting visitor numbers and always keeping a good distance Beloved by tinerfeños, Tenerife’s guachinches are simple great-value pop-up food spots specializing in traditional home-cooked cuisine They are typically set in repurposed garages garden shacks or country fincas (estates) whose owners make and serve their own wine particularly around La Orotava in northern Tenerife You’ll be digging into garbanzas (chickpea stew) The traditional guachinche season is during winter and it’s best to get recommendations locally (though there are also some online guides) Detour: At the other end of the gastronomy spectrum, Tenerife is now home to seven Michelin-star restaurants, with fine-dining menus wowing diners at creative kitchens like El Rincón de Juan Carlos, M.B. and Nub.  Plunging into the Atlantic from 600m (1969ft) above, northwestern Tenerife’s basalt cliffs of Los Gigantes make up one of the Canaries’ most spectacular coastal landscapes The dreamiest views are from out on the cobalt-blue water which means kayaking and paddleboarding here are a delight Los Gigantes is also Tenerife’s finest spot for diving and snorkeling endangered Canarian lobsters and other creatures bobbing around the cliffs It’s a similar scene in La Orotava, the historically prosperous town clinging to northern Tenerife’s slopes, home to the grand 1632 Casa de los Balcones. There is more traditional design in laid-back Garachico especially around the laurel-shaded Plaza de la Libertad.  Planning tip: Pop into La Laguna’s Museo de Historia de Tenerife Italian-influenced mansion crammed with intriguing exhibits.  where a couple of black-pebble coves gaze out on the cliffs of Los Gigantes; private vehicles are banned here at most times for conservation reasons so hop on the shuttle bus or arrive on foot or by bike.  Planning tip: One of Tenerife’s most popular hikes is Teno’s Barranco de Masca, which now requires a prebooked permit to help with preservation efforts a subtropical wonderland of around 4000 species The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers When you purchase through links on our site Book a great value trip away with these Tenerife budget-friendly hotels from self-catering apartments to all-inclusive beach getaways I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Tenerife has always been a popular holiday destination thanks to tip-top temperatures and sunny days even through winter. The island blossomed from the package holiday boom starting in the late sixties and our love affair with the island for beach holidays has continued ever since One of the great things about Tenerife is that it is still incredibly good value in regards to accommodation on offer to families Tenerife has made concerted efforts to improve the quality of its hotels and resorts and while some areas have seen price increases there are still bargains to be had in popular spots across the island Whether you’re looking for a budget city bolthole a self-catering apartment or an all-inclusive by the beach that won’t break the bank with its enviable location on the very front of the promenade in Puerto de La Cruz next to the famous Lago Martiánez open-air swimming pools multi-use sports court and three restaurants There’s also an all-inclusive option and longer-stay discounts are available for stays of more than eight days Address: Av. de Cristobal Colón, 12, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain Read more: The best hotels in Tenerife for family-friendly holidays and luxury stays Cute duplexes and suites make up this hotel It’s an ideal spot for any golf aficionados as it’s located in the middle of the Las Américas golf course in the popular south west of the island It’s not just for those looking to swing their clubs on the fairways as its location makes the ideal spot to experience all the exuberant life in Playa de Las Américas and the other major resorts of the area a games room and a children’s playground onsite Read more: Best family-friendly activities in Tenerife, from water parks to whale watching Santa Cruz de Tenerife (the island’s capital) has become much more popular with holidaymakers looking for something a little different than the beach resorts of the south It’s meant a spate of cool new city hotels opening including the AC Hotel right in the heart of the capital Rooms are modern and functional as you’d expect from the AC brand with plush touches for comfort the rooftop bar Azotea del 31 has become one of the city’s hottest spots for cocktails and small plates offering views over the old town and the sea Read more: The best beaches in Tenerife If you’re in the mood for a different sort of stay then La Correa del Almendro might be up your street This boutique rural hotel is made up of six large rooms housed in a 300-year-old Canarian farmhouse with original Canarian pinewood details you can book into one of the hotel’s bubble rooms – transparent igloo-style glamping pods that allow you to make the most of Tenerife’s protected night skies to see the stars There’s an outdoor pool and sun terrace and due to the hotel being 800 metres above sea level there are spectacular views down to the coast and towards the Atlantic Read more: Discover the lesser-known side of Tenerife where beers are €2.50 and landscapes appear straight out of a movie A recent addition to the growing hotel scene in Tenerife’s capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife the InnSide is smack bang in the centre of town The rooms are chic and stylish and ideal for a city break – especially as the hotel is right next to the main shopping street Calle Castillo But don’t think you can’t have your downtime here too as there’s an impressive rooftop sun terrace with a gravity defying infinity pool that hangs over the street and perfect for cooling off in the summer sunshine and a restaurant serving Latin American-inspired dishes with a Canarian twist Read more: I took four kids under eight to Tenerife – this is how I made it a stress-free holiday La Laguna is one of the most historic parts of the island and home to the island’s main university The centre is a protected Unesco World Heritage Site and the street layout of La Laguna was used for towns and cities across South America including Havana in Cuba The hotel is housed in a beautiful old building in the historic centre and rooms are suitably characterful The rooftop has a 22-metre pool and sun loungers for hot days and a vinoteca wine library for when the weather turns chilly (or not) Read more: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama hotel review: Elegance, fitness and family fun in sunny Tenerife traditional hotel has been run by the same family for nearly a century and has pride of place on the seafront in Puerto de La Cruz This resort on the island’s north coast is a little more mature than its southern counterparts but has a long promenade and plentiful shops The hotel looks classically Canarian with pinewood balconies and the on-site Don Carlos restaurant serves traditional Spanish food and plenty of local wines Read more: Why Tenerife is Europe’s best spot for responsible whale watching In the small port town of Garachico – once the island’s main port until it was destroyed by a volcanic eruption several hundred years ago – you’ll find La Quinta Roja – a manor house transformed into a cute boutique hotel Rooms have classic architecture with contemporary furnishings and its suites are affectionately named after native flowers of the archipelago Chef Samuel Hernández heads up the Silogía restaurant which is distinctly Canarian with global influences – snag a seat on the interior courtyard when the sun goes down There’s a dedicated yoga studio and nearby you’ll find the natural volcanic seawater pools of El Caletón Read more: The Canary Island you might not have thought of for wine – and running This aparthotel is located in Puerto de Santiago in the gaze of of the famous Los Gigantes cliffs With well-equipped kitchens in each apartment All apartments come with a full-size oven (often a rarity in the Canaries) There’s also a good-value restaurant onsite serving Spanish plates The pool is sizeable and there is plenty of space for relaxing on sun loungers You can visit the book exchange library and there are table tennis and pool tables available Read more: Why the Canary Islands should be your next holiday destination for winter sun the Catalonia hotel group have three hotels in Tenerife one of which is the Oro Negro near Playa de Las Américas It has a beautiful pool and plenty of space for soaking up the Tenerife sunshine There’s also a brand-new pool on the roof for guests staying in the premium rooms evening entertainment and a daily activities programme featuring aquagym Read more: Spain’s warmest places for winter sun This rural hotel is the great choice for those looking to explore the mountainous Tenerife landscape and El Teide National Park Located at the entrance to Corona Forestal Natural Park it’s a world away from the frenetic resorts of the south of the island Rooms are classic and spacious often with views of El Teide volcano You’ll find a restaurant onsite and there is also a finca where much of the produce used by the chefs is grown Read more: The hidden Spanish holiday hotspots where you can avoid crowds – and tourist trap prices Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies {"adUnitPath":"71347885/_main_independent/in_travel/in_europe/image/gallery_mpu_sb","autoGallery":true,"disableAds":false,"gallery":[{"data":{"title":"post 26.09.2021.jpeg","description":" Hotel Rural La Correa del Almendro, Tenerife","caption":"Choose Hotel Rural La Correa del Almendro offers a boutique rural stay Choose Hotel Rural La Correa del Almendro offers a boutique rural stay solo travellers and couples","description":"Book a great value trip away with these Tenerife budget-friendly hotels The National Geographic Institute (IGN) have reported an earthquake of 3.3 magnitude on the Richter scale detected today (Sunday) The tremor occurred at 3:04pm with its epicentre located to the east of the municipality at coordinates 28.4166 latitude and -16.5272 longitude Although the seismic event registered a notable magnitude no reports of personal injuries or material damage have been received as of yet Preliminary data suggests that the earthquake's intensity was weak but was felt across 14 municipalities on the island particularly in neighbourhoods such as El Durazno The quake's impact extended to neighbouring areas Other affected municipalities included La Victoria de Acentejo This earthquake is the latest in a series of seismic activities recorded in the Canary Islands which remains under close observation by experts seeking to better understand the geological dynamics of the archipelago While such events are not uncommon in the area they emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and preparedness for potential seismic risks This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Radisson Hotel Group is strengthening its foothold in Tenerife with the full refurbishment of an existing complex into the Radisson Resort & Residences Tenerife The company has announced the redevelopment of Parque San Antonio marking a significant step in its expansion strategy in the Canary Islands This move consolidates Radisson’s growth in one of Europe’s most sought-after tourist destinations The new hotel will be part of Radisson Individuals offering high-end accommodation and services with a focus on premium hospitality This business model has become a cornerstone of Radisson’s expansion in key strategic markets Radisson’s project in Tenerife aligns with the company’s broader strategy of transforming existing hotels in popular tourist destinations to meet the company’s quality standards elevating its offering with a sophisticated blend of luxury suites and residences This shift aims to enhance the overall experience by providing exclusive services in a refined setting The decision to invest further in Tenerife is a strategic one As one of Spain’s most established tourist hotspots the island attracts a steady influx of visitors drawn by its mild climate Radisson already has a presence in the Canary Islands and this latest venture further cements its position in the region’s luxury hospitality market The Radisson Resort & Residences Tenerife will reflect the group’s commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and excellence in guest experience. The hotel chain continues to focus on attracting a higher-end clientele seeking exclusive, premium experiences. With this new addition, Radisson underscores its confidence in Tenerife as a prime destination for growth, reinforcing its commitment to modernisation and sophistication in the luxury hotel sector. whether you’re after a fantasy-filled resort for kids or a chic adults-only hotel break Over the years, the Canary Islands have been given many a name, from ‘the islands of eternal spring’ This is in no small part due to the pleasant climate year-round – one of the main reasons for people visiting the Atlantic archipelago today As part of this Tinerfeño (Tenerifian) transformation, the variety and quality of the island’s hotels and accommodation have excelled This sprawling resort is legendary in these parts for its impeccable service beachside location and award-winning restaurants Laid out in the style of a Canarian mansion surrounded by terracotta-roofed villas and buildings you’d be forgiven for thinking you were staying in a small village and a rundown of the hotel statistics reads like a rollcall of the perfect hotel checklist: five pools direct access to the beach… the list goes on yoga and mindfulness experts and a gym (should you feel the need) You can’t really go wrong with any of the restaurants here – Nub has a Michelin star – but you really shouldn’t miss the Japanese delights of Kensei by chef Victor Planas slow-cooked wagyu and more is simply divine Read more: Discover the lesser-known side of Tenerife The adults-only San Roque sits in one of the most historic towns on the island and everything about it exudes heritage Garachico on Tenerife’s north coast was the island’s first ever port and was incredibly important in establishing the trade links between Tenerife and Europe but disaster struck in 1706 when a volcanic eruption completely destroyed the town and port the town is a quiet and relaxed part of the island ideal for getting away from it all – and from the livelier resorts of the south the hotel is boutique but not lacking in facilities thanks to a year-round heated pool All rooms are unique but La Torre Suite has to be the most indulgent – it’s based over three floors of the old sea-traffic watchtower This is a characterful place from which to explore the north of the island with its hikes wineries and natural sea pools – perfect for cooling off on those sultry sunny days Read more: Spain travel guide A pink palace rising up out of the banana plantations on the island’s west coast the Ritz-Carlton Abama is the ultimate in luxe resorts There might not be much to do in the immediate surroundings of the hotel but then there’s also not much reason to leave either as the resort is set up with everything you could need for a high-end holiday clean beach vibes with ample terraces and balconies – ideal for supping wine at sundown The hotel also has one of the largest kids’ clubs on the island and the family will also love to take the resort’s own funicular railway down to the beach there are multiple pools and sports facilities You’ll also find dining to suit all tastes with the laid-back Mediterranean El Mirador to the two-Michelin star M.B by legendary Spanish chef Martín Berasategui Read more: The best beaches in Tenerife The Tenerife capital often gets overlooked by visitors outside of carnival time in February but it’s packed full of interesting museums and art galleries an opera house to rival Sydney’s in the architecture stakes quaint plazas with intimate restaurants and cafes This smart-looking urban bolthole has everything you’d expect from a boutique city stopover including a rooftop bar and terrace You’re right next to the city’s main shopping street and a short stroll from both the portside and verdant Parque García Sanabria Read more: Best Canary Island holidays for winter sun Its 365 rooms and 259 suites are decorated to fit the rock’n’roll theme with pops of colour As well as a soothing spa and sports facilities you can also take guitar and dance lessons or learn how to be a DJ during your stay The hotel has five a-la-carte restaurants and one buffet-style spot to re-energise after rocking out The music theme continues with a calendar of live music performances and events throughout the year from sunset music and cocktail sessions to big stage shows and acts your whole stay will be soundtracked with personalised playlists Read more: Best family hotels in Tenerife The bar is set high at this five-star from the get-go as all rooms are handsomely decorated and well-equipped suites Located less than a five-minute walk from both Playa del Duque and Playa de Fañabé the hotel is designed with entertainment at its core Children will love the resort’s waterparks with different pools the adventure park with its maze of climbing walls Evening entertainment is guaranteed here with several big-budget shows including a mesmerising burlesque-style dinner show and a flamenco spectacle Don’t miss dinner at the panoramic restaurant Donaire where chef Jesús Camacho and team take Canarian ingredients and cuisine and give them a modern-day twist Read more: This Canary Island resort is a haven for active travellers – and surprisingly good for toddlers You might think you’ve walked into a theme park when you first see this hotel – that’s no coincidence – as it’s designed to look like a fairytale land it’s designed for families and you’ll find a kids’ club dramatic mystical live performance shows and a water park to keep them busy that offers a wellness water circuit and indulgent treatments including energy rituals and plantain oil massages There are five restaurants including three a la carte options – ideal for picky eaters All-inclusive options are available which includes most of the resort’s facilities Read more: I took four kids under eight to Tenerife – this is how I made it a stress-free holiday white-washed hotel regularly makes it into top hotel lists all with exceptional views of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean (the higher floors offer the most uninterrupted vistas) This is a strictly adults-only hotel but it’s sister hotel Royal Hideaway Corales Suites next door caters to families and you can use some of the facilities at both there is a luxurious spa and various sun terraces for languid days in the sun One of the hotel’s calling cards is its dining offering including the famous Rincón de Juan Carlos from the Padrón brothers serving an innovative menu using many local products The hotel also has sustainability high on their agenda which has been built into every aspect of the resort from solar panels to local suppliers Read more: Best luxury hotels in Tenerife Everything about this adults-only hotel is beach chic It’s located on the island’s north coast in the mature resort of Puerto de la Cruz This whole area of the island is known for its outstanding wines and gastronomic scene thanks to the fertile volcanic soils of the Orotava Valley And the Atlantic Mirage hugs the coast where the valley meets the sea All the rooms are suites with stellar ocean views and plush furnishings with design-forward décor The rooftop terrace and pool deck are the standout spaces with plunge pool loungers and impeccable bar service for times when you need a refresher Read more: Northern Europe’s only luxury private island is open to tourists This hotel received a much-needed refurb when it was taken over a few years ago by Tivoli new interiors in its 280 rooms and suites with natural wood details and cool mid-century-style furniture The resort has kept its characteristic terracotta hue and it now offers guests a choice of 8 bars and restaurants helmed by Portuguese chef Olivier da Costa The boutique spa has also had a makeover and welcomes guests looking for a touch of relaxation and rejuvenation thanks to its spa circuit serene terrace and treatments including an after-sun massage that uses mint and pine oil from nearby Mount Teide to soothe skin Read more: The best beaches in Spain this incredibly sleek hotel is made up of suites There are 21 different types to choose from ranging from studios to four-bedroom options Some come with spa pools or private plunge pools on their terraces Everything about Baobab is stylish from the pool decks to the restaurants which includes the famous Char (the best grill house in the Canary Islands 2024 according to Guía Que Bueno Canarias) Opt for one of the tasting menus to try a selection of six or eight of the most popular dishes that could include the likes of wagyu cecina croquettes and charcoal roasted chicken The resort also has a spa and salon as well as a sports centre with classes Read more: The best things to do in Spain La Laguna is one of the island’s most historic places and the old town is a Unesco World Heritage Site The layout of the 15th-century streets here was used as a blueprint for many settlements in the Americas including Havana in Cuba The Nivaria hotel sits right in the heart of the old town in a Spanish colonial-style mansion dating from 16th century The hotel is packed full of character with beautiful dark Canarian pine wood details The café bar and restaurants use ingredients – from eggs to avocados – grown on the hotel’s own finca organic farm Book time in the intimate spa hidden beneath street level – numbers are limited to help keep the experience feeling bespoke Read more: The best beaches in Lanzarote Overlooking the Costa Adeje Golf Course and with views of the sea this boutique hotel is made up of 28 intimate villas Each beautifully designed villa comes with its own pool The sumptuous spa offers a range of treatments and a water circuit Try the Eternal Youth facial or perhaps succumb to a hot volcanic stones massage for ultimate switched-off bliss What perhaps sets this hotel apart is the experiences whether that’s playing a leisurely 18 on the adjacent golf course or heading out on the hotel’s very own boat where you’ll be able to spot sea life that could include whales and indulge in a Mediterranean-style lunch on board While not the most luxurious hotel on the list the Parador offers something else that makes it unique This hotel from the wonderful Paradores hotel chain is a mansion situated at the foot of El Teide – that’s 2,000 metres above sea level It offers unparalleled access to the national park which is ripe for hiking and exploring the volcanic landscape this is also one of the best places to witness the beauty of the night sky there are guided stargazing workshops each Friday evening at the hotel There’s a restaurant serving classic Canarian-style cuisine and the hotel is very conscious of its environmental impact which is why it generates its own electricity You can relax and soothe tired hiking limbs in the hotel’s indoor pool Tenerife’s daily highs reach its peak in July through September with the hottest month being August with 29.2C If you are seeking more balmy weather during your visit it is best to travel to the island in the autumn or winter months – even in December and January Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, catering to both budget-friendly travellers and those seeking a luxury getaway Gran Canaria is known as the “miniature continent” due to its medley of volcanic calderas urban beaches and the Pico de las Nieves peak is known for its palm-tree-lined beaches and year-round sunshine Fuerteventura is an ideal destination for surfing and watersports due to a breeze being frequently present wind strength averages at 13mph throughout the year across all the Canaries making for an attractive destination for wind sports enthusiasts and surfers La Gomera and the smallest of the Canaries Tenerife’s sparkling shores and sandy beaches attract thousands each year – these are the best hotels to book handpicked by experts","description":"The best hotels in Tenerife The largest of the Canary Islands is primed to oblige with a wide variety of accommodation — and not just the type catering to the mainstream who flock to the south-coast beach resorts looking for family fun sun-soaked downtime or bar-hopping nightlife often with all-inclusive packages and ranging from the reasonable to the refined you can also find characterful boutique stays and sleepy Most of these are located around the less-visited north coast or in the rural interior — some on the slopes of Mount Teide choose Playa de las Americas for high-energy nightlife neighbouring Los Cristianos for a less intense atmosphere and purpose-built Costa Adeje for great family stays with golden beaches and safe swimming the black sands of Puerto de la Cruz provide a low-key beach alternative and the less-developed west coast has dramatic cliffs and high-end hotels Become a subscriber and along with unlimited digital access to The Times and The Sunday Times you can enjoy a collection of travel offers and competitions curated by our trusted travel partners It’s all about the location at this lodge more than 2,000m (6,560ft) above sea level in the shadow of the volcanic peak of Mount Teide providing after-hours access and stupendous views stargazers and peace-and-quiet-seekers who mainly choose to stay just a handful of nights but the restaurant wows with panoramic views and authentic Canarian flavours There’s a lounge with an open fire and a small indoor pool but guests are here for the setting rather than the extra services • Discover our full guide to the Canary Islands With a seafront spot on the quiet west coast and a host of on-site amenities this large but elegant hotel suits those who plan to spend plenty of time in the resort Public areas are Andalusian in style while the rooms have a more modern Many of the hotel restaurants and the vast Clarins spa are set along a sprawling 400m-long seawater infinity pool that stretches almost the length of the hotel There are tennis courts and a gym for active adults and children have a club and a dedicated pool with slides and a pirate ship Upgrade to RedLevel for top-level accommodation butler service and an exclusive pool and lounge • Discover our full guide to Spain This cliffside Tenerife hotel with spectacular sea views has a sleek aesthetic that you might expect to come with a higher price tag south-facing pool and a rooftop sun terrace with Bali beds The property is set in a quiet area away from the centre of Puerto de la Cruz with a handful of restaurants and bars nearby; the resort centre can be accessed down the Agatha Christie steps (the Queen of Crime had a house nearby) • Read our full guide to the world’s best hotels If you’re looking for a predominantly hotel-based family holiday with younger kids Playa Paraiso isn’t the most atmospheric resort in Tenerife but its position on the west coast does bring glorious sunsets sprawling gardens and an encyclopaedic range of things to do and a dedicated play area featuring heated pools with waterslides and an adventure playground There are three restaurants to choose from Total relaxation is the goal at this secluded villa hotel set in tropical gardens near the Costa Adeje golf course the 50 spacious villas all come with private pools with exuberant yet tasteful decor that combines Far Eastern influences with a Mediterranean feel particularly in the restaurants (which include Asian and French options) the hotel organises on-site wine tastings and has its own yacht which can be chartered for sailing and fishing trips Tenerife’s original grande dame hotel bagged a prime location its 15-acre grounds stretching down to the sugary sands of Playa del Duque Spanish colonial-style buildings and four freeform pools sit in lush gardens of jacaranda and dragon trees Rooms and suites in soft marine colours are available in both the main hotel and Casas Ducales an exclusive area closer to the beach with butler service and extra perks Tucked behind the hotel are villas with private pools Of the dizzying roster of 21 restaurants and bars although children may prefer La Heladería’s giant sundaes Facilities are just as extensive; clubs for kids and teenagers Read our full review of Bahia del Duque Families with older kids will find plenty to keep them occupied at this good-value hotel sandwiched between golf courses and a fishing village on the south coast a climbing wall and even a small in-house nature reserve and museum a guided hike through rocky canyons and an interactive exhibition tell the geological and ethnographic history of the island but a complimentary shuttle runs to Playa de las Americas This adults-only hotel in the quiet northwest of the island has all the benefits of a rural location but isn’t the slightest bit rustic with the peaks of the Teno Mountains to one side and the greens of a Seve Ballesteros-designed clifftop golf course to the other an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and an atmospheric bar in a converted church this hideaway has sophistication in spades For those who come for the area’s excellent mountain biking trails there’s bike rental and a repair shop on site • Best hotels with swim-up rooms in Tenerife• Best all-inclusive hotels in Tenerife The clue is in the name — this bright and cheerful family-friendly hotel fronts straight on to a golden Children can hop easily between the pool and splash park the small children’s playground and the apartments which come with kitchen areas and up to three bedrooms The kids’ club is for ages six months to 12 years and both on-site restaurants have high chairs and children’s menus The lobby features a giant “virtual aquarium” with touchscreen displays so guests can learn about Tenerife’s marine life lava-encrusted landscape of the north coast this adults-only boutique is the antithesis of the south’s huge resort hotels A converted 18th-century manor house in the island’s prettiest village its interiors are sophisticated and grown-up with Bauhaus-style furniture and modern art complementing the building’s beautifully restored bones tactile environment with plenty of corners to settle in with a book There’s also a rooftop sundeck and a heated courtyard swimming pool around which the restaurant tables are set Snacks are served all day and there’s a menu of refined Canarian favourites in the evening Moorish-style property sits in its own luxurious 400-acre enclave high on the western cliffs with views over La Gomera but guests tend to come here looking for a hotel-based holiday shuttling between the excellent 18-hole championship golf course the ancient Rome-inspired spa or one of the seven outdoor pools its sandy beach is reached by a funicular railway running down the cliffs it also has the biggest Ritz Kids club in Europe and a two-Michelin-star restaurant Read our full review of the Ritz-Carlton Abama For something with the same gorgeous setting as Bahia del Duque but on a more intimate scale The architecture is extravagant — all arches next to the beach and overlooked by the cocktail bar and the more atmospheric of the two à la carte restaurants but a far bigger spa; guests really just come here to relax Among wildflower meadows on the edge of a sleepy village in the northwestern mountains this 20-room rural hotel with unexpectedly sleek rooms caters to an active clientele It has its own stables and programme of riding excursions and is perfectly placed for hiking routes through the Masca Gorge the Teno Mountains and the Chinyero Nature Reserve There’s a sauna and hot tub to soak away the day’s exertions a lounge with a log fire for evening drinks and a restaurant serving a set menu at dinner there are a few other dining options in the village There’s an aura of the Orient at this established property sitting opposite Tenerife’s Jardín Botanico The hotel’s palm-filled private garden features fountains a Japanese-style bridge and a freshwater pond that’s home to koi carp and black swans Asian-styled spa has outdoor hydrotherapy pools but for families there’s a children’s pool kids’ club and a special wildlife adventure programme in the school holidays run in partnership with nearby Loro Parque as if a large white yacht had moored on shore The spacious suites are designed with couples in mind with open bathrooms and large terraces with ocean views many with hot tubs — the look is contemporary rather than Canarian The two-Michelin-starred El Rincon de Juan Carlos restaurant has the local Padrón brothers at the helm and there are four more restaurants which serves Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine The hotel has a 24-hour gym and programme of fitness classes this behemoth of a property has more than 600 rooms spread over two towers — and all the music and memorabilia associated with the brand You can get a Fender guitar or a record player and a selection of vinyl delivered to the rooms There are pool parties and live music at the beach bar with a children’s pool and kids’ clubs from six months to 16 years this rock’n’roll choice is family-friendly too adults-only hotel offers a tranquil oasis that’s still deceptively close to all the shops restaurants and excitement of the busy resort — the beach is also a short walk away with guests basking around the two palm-shaded heated saltwater pools or on the rooftop sundeck Upgrade to a pool-view room to avoid any street noise at night Those more interested in sightseeing than sunbathing will adore this charming heritage boutique located among the narrow cobbled streets of Tenerife’s former capital Rooms are handsome and spacious for a city hotel and breakfast can be enjoyed in the restaurant or on the sunny terrace Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to locations for drinks — tucked into a velvet chair or Chesterfield sofa in the lofty bar or with views over the Anaga mountains by the rooftop pool this has the highest thrill level for kids an aqua park and even a family area and special treatments in the spa so parents can enjoy the grown-up delights including a suspended glass pool that projects over the edge of the roof All suites come with separate living areas close to two of Tenerife’s best sandy beaches • Best villas in Tenerife Sign up to the Times Travel newsletter for weekly inspiration, advice and deals here one of the most popular beaches for holidaymakers in the north of Tenerife has now been closed for two months due to faecal contamination from a broken underwater sewage pipe The delay in repairs has prompted the launch of environmental assessments both on land and at sea to evaluate the extent of the pollution located in the municipality of Puerto de la Cruz and one of Tenerife’s top tourist destinations since the 1960s Despite the usual influx of tourists to the area only a few people have ventured to sunbathe here since the beach was cordoned off on July 4th The contamination was triggered by the rupture of a sewage pipeline that discharges waste close to the shore Despite the beach being closed for two months the situation has attracted attention from both tourists and residents the Canary Islands government held a coordination meeting with the Tenerife Island Council and the Puerto de la Cruz Town Hall to assess the situation The authorities began by analysing 15 key locations between Punta Brava and San Telmo to determine the water quality Fieldwork is being conducted to measure water and land conditions and an inventory of potential marine pollution sources is underway These efforts aim to assess water quality and identify possible leaks to better manage the contamination The island’s authorities have faced several challenges in repairing the damaged sewage pipe Tenerife’s Councillor for Natural Environment and Sustainability underwater repair work began in August but was delayed due to technical difficulties an emergency decree allocated €201,000 for immediate repairs to both land and sea sections of the pipeline Pérez confirmed that these efforts are ongoing with the goal of resolving the issue as quickly as possible Mayor Afonso highlighted the municipality’s efforts to improve its wastewater management system including plans to prioritize the legalization of pumping stations Playa Jardín is no stranger to closures due to faecal contamination joining a growing list of beaches affected by this issue Similar problems have also impacted other popular beaches on the island such as El Médano and La Pinta in the south of island which have both experienced multiple closures this summer due to high levels of pathogens in the water The TimesTenerife’s sandy stretches run the full gamut from wide and golden to secluded and lava-toned Classic holiday-ready beaches edge the popular southwest coast resorts with imported Saharan sand keeping those who prefer paler shores happy Here you’ll find facilities in spades — bars and restaurants at accessibility-friendly Playa de las Vistas Natural protection or man-made breakwaters mean most of these beaches have safe swimming even for the smallest splashers wind and kite surfers flock to catch the strong winds and waves many are set in small coves and provide a much quieter experience The region is well-suited to active travellers but temperatures are lower here off season — worth noting if you’re looking for swimsuit-weather winter sun stays ALAMYYou’ll find reviews suggesting this beach is somehow secret. It’s really not, but — unusually for the south of Tenerife — it is secluded surrounded by photogenic rocky cliffs and accessed by stony paths either from La Caleta or from the Golf Costa Adeje car park It attracts fewer visitors than easier-to-access beauty spots and you’ll find it popular with nudists and the hippies that give the beach its nickname when the clear water retreats to reveal a lovely curve of golden sand • Best family-friendly hotels in Tenerife TURISMO DE ISLAS CANARIASIf sand is superfluous to your beach needs these natural sea pools in the attractive town of Garachico in the island’s north are a beautiful alternative Formed from the flowing lava of the 1706 eruption that engulfed a large part of the town the swimming area gives access to both the open sea and calmer rock pools The inky rocks really make the blue of the water and the sky pop so you’ll want to take a few pictures before plunging in but the pools are only open from June to September Outside that window you’ll find Playa de Garachico nearby a small but sheltered curve of charcoal-toned shingle • Best all-inclusive hotels in Tenerife Families looking for respite from the more energetic atmosphere at the rest of the beaches near to Playa de las Americas can find it at this small sandy bay to the south the fine golden sand is backed by ranks of palm trees and breakwaters stretch so far around the bay it’s almost entirely enclosed Beyond the odd pedalo there isn’t much in the way of water sports so parents can rest easy on a lounger while the kids splash in the shallows • Best hotels in Tenerife ALAMYBefore the Canary Islands’ most famous architect got his hands on it the stretch of coast at Puerto de la Cruz was mainly rocky Cesar Manrique’s masterplan meant black volcanic sand was extracted from the seabed and led to the creation of a botanic garden of palm trees with the Atlantic on one side and the banana plantations of the Orotava Valley on the other — beyond is the snow-capped peak of Mount Teide The weather dictates whether the waves are more suitable for swimming or surfing • The best villas in Tenerife ALAMYPlaya de la Tejita’s golden sand stretches for almost a mile to the base of Montaña Roja the terracotta volcanic cone that dominates this beautiful beach waves and lack of lifeguard mean it’s not a good place for families to swim There’s a small beach kiosk at the western end; the other • The best hotels with swim-up rooms in Tenerife arching palms and a backdrop of the Anaga mountains A breakwater running the length of the shore creates a shallow so everything from paddling to snorkelling is safe and pleasant the fact that it’s not backed by a resort saves it from ever feeling too busy ALAMYThis cappuccino-coloured sandy beach is the place to banish boredom plus a children’s playground and crazy golf or from one of the many bars and restaurants along the promenade • Best hotels in Costa Adeje for a fun beach break ALAMYThis short black sand beach on the island’s west coast is dwarfed by the giants it is named after — the 800m-tall cliffs that rise up at its northern edge Bookended by these and the marina’s sea wall feels sheltered and swimming conditions are usually good but whale-watching and scuba-diving trips can be found at the marina GETTY IMAGESLike the hotels that cluster around it this dark gold beach has a sophisticated feel with smart blue-and-white striped beach huts and thatched parasols shading sun loungers that are a few euros more to hire than any others on the island It’s a worthwhile investment; the sand is clean and groomed and the waves calmed by a rocky breakwater If there’s still cash burning a hole in your pocket it’s overlooked by an upmarket seafood restaurant and next door to a designer shopping mall GETTY IMAGESSurfers and wave-watchers love this beauty of a beach two and a half miles outside Puerto De La Cruz where fine black sand is encircled by rugged cliffs There’s a small car park next to the clifftop restaurant but because the path down is steep and the currents are strong it’s not ideal for children ALAMYAt the other side of Montaña Roja from La Tejita east-facing beach make it the island’s top spot for wind and kite surfing reliable waves and sandy ocean floor also make it popular with the island’s surf schools ALAMYSieved every morning to keep it clean and soft the golden sand on this curving beach at the edge of Los Cristianos started life in the Sahara Desert Now it forms one of Tenerife’s most family-friendly beaches and — particularly at the western end — calm waters perfect for paddling The giant fountain shooting seawater skyward from an artificial island is a bit of an oddity but proves a useful meeting point on a busy day GETTY IMAGESThe black sand at this small west-coast beach seems a shade inkier than any other on Tenerife and it’s a good location for snorkelling on a calm day but currents can form underwater so keep an eye out in case a red flag signals it’s unsafe to swim Views over to the neighbouring island of La Gomera become even more spectacular at sunset because the resort itself is far more sedate than those found further south GETTY IMAGESThe road through the ancient laurisilva forests of the Anaga Rural Park to Benijo beach is either a treat or a trauma depending on the disposition of the driver but the hairpin bends mean it’s mainly passengers who get to appreciate them with rock formations rising up out of the dark sand and impressive waves GETTY IMAGESThis small beach is great for kids who like to make a splash with gently shelving sand and breakwaters that keep waves to the minimum There’s a floating inflatable play area just off shore and plenty of cafés and bars to refuel in just off the sand book one of the whale and dolphin-watching trips that leave from the Puerto Colon marina quiet stretch of sand in the southeast of the island doesn’t look much to write home about on first viewing but it’s below the surface that things get interesting It’s a firm favourite with snorkellers and scuba divers attracted by the populations of loggerhead and green turtles that swim in the bay The best time to spot them is from June to September • Best things to do in Tenerife Sign up to the travel newsletter for weekly inspiration, advice and deals here The Canary Islands are bracing for the impact of Storm Olivier which is expected to bring intense rainfall across the archipelago from this afternoon According to the latest technical coordination meeting held this morning (Wednesday) by the regional authorities the storm will begin affecting La Palma at 3:00pm with rainfall possibly reaching up to 30 litres per square metre in just one hour The storm will reach La Gomera and El Hierro around 6:00pm where heavy downpours are anticipated later in the evening Gran Canaria is expected to feel the effects from 9:00pm and La Graciosa) will be impacted in the early hours of tomorrow The Canary Islands Government has declared a full alert for rainfall and issued pre-alerts for risk of floods Storm Olivier will cross the islands from west to east driven by southerly winds that are forecast to intensify the downpours a preceding weather front has already caused rainfall and lightning strikes over the sea between Gran Canaria These early effects led to minor flooding in around 15 homes in Lanzarote road debris and landslides on secondary roads in Gran Canaria Flood Risk Areas Identified Across Islands Authorities warn that most flood-prone zones across the archipelago will be affected particularly in southwestern-facing municipalities The following areas have been identified as high-risk zones for flooding: The Directorate General of Emergencies urges residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary Citizens are also advised not to use lifts during storms and to call 112 only in emergencies people are warned not to approach areas struck by lightning or run through open spaces during electrical storms Authorities stress the importance of taking all necessary precautions and following official guidance to ensure public safety as the storm moves through the islands Island of unabashed tourism development and disgruntled protesting locals based on recent news stories focused on the largest Canary island it’s true there are some patches of dense development in a couple of the more (in)famous resorts of the south but head to the north coast instead and you’ll find an altogether more peaceful vibe an authentic Tenerifian town that has been attracting British tourists since the late 19th century Those early visitors might have arrived by ship but they made the journey south for the same reason you will: year-round warmth and plenty of sunshine In July you can expect temperatures comfortably into the 20s balmy evenings and blue skies — with a four-hour flight to get here and a full week’s holiday for less than £400 Although packages to the north of Tenerife tend to be pricier than to the south if you can stomach a middle-of-the-night flight home then easyJet Holidays has seven nights in Puerto de la Cruz for £329pp during the first week of July You’ll return bleary-eyed to Gatwick at 4.55am but with a post-midnight take-off from Tenerife the upside is a full final day exploring the island (alternatively pay an extra £108pp and fly home 12 hours earlier) Hotel Marquesa has been welcoming guests since 1883Your base is Hotel Marquesa a historic hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1883 and is arranged around a traditional Canarian courtyard with carved wooden balconies and plenty of hanging foliage There’s also a small rooftop pool with sea views and an on-site restaurant where your breakfast is included You can walk to the beach in less than five minutes Puerto’s focal point is the pedestrianised Plaza del Charco a square of laurel-shaded café terraces that buzzes around the clock with the town’s residents many of them keeping half an eye on kids in the playground There’s grilled fish to be eaten and wine to be drunk while one of the island’s best swimming spots the alfresco seafront pool complex of Lago Martianez The Lago was designed by the Canarian architect César Manrique in the 1970s and bears all the hallmarks of his exotic-chic style: smooth white walls contrast with black lava boulders; upright palms shade sculptural cactus gardens; inviting pools wink in the sunshine but you could spend all day here (lagomartianez.es) Also worth a day of your holiday is Mount Teide a still-smouldering volcano that is 3,718m tall and Spain’s highest point You’ll be picked up in Puerto for the drive through the pine forests and lava fields of the island’s interior then whisked up the volcano by cable car for stonking views over the archipelago (£70; volcanoteide.com) This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue • Return Gatwick-Tenerife South flights• 23kg hold luggage • Shared coach transfer• Seven nights’ B&B at Hotel Marquesa Sign up for our Times Travel newsletter and follow us on Instagram and X Based on a report from the General Directorate of Public Health the Puerto de la Cruz City Council has announced an indefinite ban on swimming at Playa Jardín due to contamination from wastewater In coordination with the Canary Islands Government's health services the Council will increase water quality testing following all public health guidelines and advisories regarding water quality The ban will only be lifted when the water quality improves sufficiently signs in multiple languages will be posted at all beach access points informing the public that they are not allowed into the water as water contamination with high levels of Escherichia coli bacteria has been detected This contamination can cause gastrointestinal issues from swallowing the water Following a report from the Ministry of Health and a consultation meeting held on Tuesday with the General Director of Public Health the decision to close the beach was confirmed This measure addresses the ongoing decline in water quality at Playa Jardín which has been deteriorating since at least 2016 The Public Health report details the water quality of various coastal areas in the municipality highlighting Playa Jardín's significant drop from excellent to insufficient quality Playa Jardín has experienced a gradual decline in water quality unlike Martiánez and San Telmo beaches which currently maintain excellent and good water quality expressed regret over the potential negative impact on the destination's image and the island as a whole but emphasised the necessity of precautionary measures He is confident that the situation can be reversed if all administrations prioritise and fund the required actions along with the city’s sanitation service provider plans a comprehensive study to identify the underlying causes of the decline in water quality There will be efforts to connect 100% of the residential and commercial sectors in Punta Brava to the general sewage network An exhaustive analysis of the coastal environment will be conducted a project is underway to redirect wastewater from La Vera and Las Dehesas directly to the Comarcal Treatment Plant bypassing the Playa Jardín pumping station The mayor also announced ongoing discussions with the Tenerife Cabildo and its Water Council (CIATF) to speed up a repair project for a leak due to a long-term crack in one of the waste pipes The regional wastewater treatment and discharge programs comply with environmental regulations but an urgent expansion of the treatment plant is needed This plant has been operating at full capacity for years receiving increasing wastewater from neighbouring municipalities Tenerife’s wild northern coast — with its caves craters and historic villages — offers a bracing alternative to the sun-drenched beaches of the south This article was adapted from National Geographic Traveller (UK).There are two sides to every story they often picture the island’s south coast — home to a warm dry and eternally summery climate and resort towns strung along the shore The north coast of the largest of the Canary Islands is a different beast: buffeted by bracing trade winds and blessed by Atlantic rain showers wilder and less familiar side of the Canaries — an area where visitors can burrow into the island’s fascinating past mustard-hued towns and shadowy caves that echo with the legacy of the Indigenous Guanches people It’s a place where you can swiftly strike into remote and otherworldly landscapes: head north east on ear-popping mountain roads to reach basalt cliffs teetering over a blue sea the mist-shrouded spine of the Anaga Mountains loom where mighty rock buttresses preside over on silent beaches beaches have long been the primary draw for visitors to the Canary Islands be it blustery beaches for surfers or serene coves for sunbathers — all formed from brooding The creator behind this volcanic geography is Mount Teide — the 12,188ft stratovolcano that lords over the island at its centre It marks the loftiest point on Spanish territory and was once believed by the Guanches to be a domain of the gods Climbing or driving towards the summit affords truly almighty vistas along the heavenly north coast — towns beaches and banana groves shaded by the ever-shifting shadow of the mountain a historic water park designed by the Gaudí of the Canary Islands the old-world Ébano Café is a fine place for a late-morning coffee under the gaze of a 17th-century church was once used by the pre-Hispanic Guanche people Re-emerge to savour the sunset at nearby Charco del Viento a little rocky peninsula with distant views of neighbouring island La Palma where traditional simmered octopus and fresh fish prop up the menu where tours explore wondrously creaky balconies and a palm-studded central patio The adjoining museum hosts demonstrations in traditional ceramics and sand art set a course for homely Casa Egon: a cafe that spills out into a leafy terraced garden with views out to the Atlantic and up to the summit of Mount Teide drive an hour eastwards to San Cristóbal de La Laguna and the Anaga Mountains AfternoonThe Anaga mountains form a long tapering ridge crowned by laurel forests Arriving from busy resorts like Puerto de la Cruz it might feel you’ve crossed a threshold into Middle-earth Driving into this remote corner of the island is a workout for both the arms and the nerves — expect hairpin bends and lurching drops — but the rewards make it worthwhile with tarmac roads terminating in villages of poetic isolation The peaceful hamlet of Afur is a springboard for hikes through a verdant ravine to the remote beach of Playa del Tamadite A little further east is historic Taganana centred on the whitewashed church of Our Lady of the Snows where a smattering of farmhouses cluster in a valley at whose base a lighthouse blinks out to sea while La Bruma is a contemporary outfit with a tapas menu that delivers big on Canarian seafood the nearest island to Tenerife.Photograph by Getty ImagesTop three North Coast day tripsThe north offers plenty of scope for outdoor adventures 2. Mount Teide summitWhether they realise it or not, all visitors to Tenerife travel in the orbit of Mount Teide — the central volcano that’s as high as four Snowdons and whose summit is visible almost everywhere on the island A few brave souls apply for a licence to walk to the top over a few days — everyone else drives most of the way there It’s a 45-minute drive from La Orotava to Las Cañadas del Teide reminiscent of Russian dolls; to cover the last leg as altitude sickness can be an issue at this lofty perch La Gomera Among the smallest of the main Canary Islands La Gomera is Tenerife’s nearest neighbour — close enough to be accessible by 50-minute ferry ride from the quays at Los Cristianos it’s a galaxy apart from Tenerife and its near-million population and even the briefest day trip can give a sense of a little lost world marooned out in the waves Look up to Garajonay National Park as the ferry draws closer amid whose pastel-hued mansions Christopher Colombus stopped to stretch his legs en route to the Americas where the explorer was rumoured to have prayed for safe passage Playa Maria JimenezThis urban beach sits on the western edge of Puerto de la Cruz set between a 17th-century castle and a craggy headland blessed with a smattering of fish restaurants It’s a family favourite but beware of powerful currents (an issue all along the north coast) Playa de BenijoReaching this beach at the extreme northeastern tip of Tenerife entails a hair-raising drive down from the Anaga Mountains It’s a popular spot with surfers; Restaurante Playa Casa Africa Playa de San TelmoA tiny beach at the heart of Puerto de la Cruz with tidal lagoons defined by surging seawater and scuttling crabs the cafe-lined promenade above provides magnificent views Playa el BollulloConcealed by steep cliffs this cove is off most tourists’ radar — you’ll need to walk down a series of stone steps from the surrounding farmland to get there There’s plenty of space for sandcastles and sunbathers or else hole up in the no-frills beach bar Playa de San MarcosBeaches become scarcer the closer you get to the northwestern tip of the island and Playa de San Marcos represents a last hurrah its black-sand strip backed by a number of whitewashed hotels served with mojo rojo and mojo verde sauces.Photograph by Getty ImagesTop three classic Tenerife dishes1 Papas arrugadasThis is the quintessential Tenerife dish The tubers in question will have been sown in fertile volcanic soil before being cooked in heavily salted water (traditionally seawater) they typically turn up in the company of both red and green pepper sauces — mojo rojo and mojo verde Ropa viejaWhile it translates rather unappetisingly as ‘old clothes’ in reality this is a hearty stew made with shredded beef and chicken having travelled across the Atlantic with Canarian seafarers Goat’s cheeseThere are artisanal cheeses galore in Tenerife; largely taking the form of goat’s cheese Look out for other goat’s cheeses from across the archipelago — majorero from Fuerteventura (not dissimilar to manchego) and salty palmero from nearby La Palma Tenerife’s two main airports, the small Tenerife Norte Airport (served by regional flights from Spain) and the much bigger Tenerife South Airport are served by British Airways, Ryanair, EasyJet and Jet2 from several UK hubs Local bus operator Titsa provides a comprehensive network of routes between Garachico Published in the October 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK) ","enableAds":true,"endbug":true,"isMetered":false,"isUserAuthed":false,"isTruncated":false,"isEntitled":false,"freemiumContentGatingEnabled":true,"premiumContentGatingEnabled":false,"ldMda":{"cmsType":"image","hasCopyright":true,"id":"010fab94-58e0-44fa-9acf-8e91c1501531","lines":3,"positionMetaBottom":true,"showMore":true,"caption":"Mount Teide Spain’s highest peak.","crdt":"Photograph by Alamy","dsc":"Mount Teide Spain’s highest peak.","rchDsc":{"markup":"Mount Teide Spain’s highest peak."},"rchTtl":{"markup":"Mount Teide Spain’s highest peak."}},"imageAlt":"Mount Teide north tenerife travel guide","lg":"https://assets-cdn.nationalgeographic.com/natgeo/static/default.NG.logo.dark.jpg","pblshr":"National Geographic","abt":"Adventure","sclDsc":"Dominated by volcanic scenery Spain’s highest peak.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More"},"image":{"alt":"Mount Teide Unauthorized use is prohibited."},"marginTop":false,"ratio":"1600x1066"},"config":{},"usesArticleObject":true},{"name":"PrismBadgeTag","props":{"badge":null,"tags":{"tags":[{"label":"TRAVEL","href":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel"}]},"isUserAuthed":false},"config":{}},{"name":"Headline","props":{"title":"How to spend a weekend on Tenerife's wild northern coast","description":"​Dominated by volcanic scenery "},"config":{},"usesArticleObject":true},{"name":"Byline","props":{"contributors":[{"name":"Oliver Smith","role":"writer","labelOverride":"By"}],"logoRadius":true,"publishedDate":{"date":"2022-09-08T23:00:00.000Z","postFormat":"MMMM D YYYY"},"shareProps":{"title":"How to spend a weekend on Tenerife's wild northern coast","url":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/weekend-tenerife-wild-northern-coast","pageType":"Story","source":"NatGeo","shareButton":"inline","size":"l","networks":["facebook","twitter","email","link"],"description":"​Dominated by volcanic scenery "},"readTime":"14 min read"},"config":{},"usesArticleObject":true},{"name":"Divider","props":{"className":"natgeoDivider"},"config":{},"usesArticleObject":true},{"name":"Body","props":{"body":[[{"type":"inline","content":{"name":"EditorsNote","props":{"body":"This article was adapted from National Geographic Traveller (UK).","header":null},"context":{},"config":{"align":"full"}}},{"type":"p","content":["There are two sides to every story wilder and less familiar side of the Canaries — an area where visitors can burrow into the island’s fascinating past."," "]},{"type":"p","content":["Here where mighty rock buttresses preside over on silent beaches."," "]},{"type":"p","content":["Of course a cafe in the Old Town of Puerto de la Cruz.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false},"image":{"id":"El Peñon del Fraile a cafe in the Old Town of Puerto de la Cruz.","showCopyright":"Please be respectful of copyright Unauthorized use is prohibited.","alt":"El Peñon del Fraile it’s in rude health as the north coast’s main town It’s easy to while away a morning watching the fishing boats from its sunny promenades or wandering under date palms and beside lily ponds in its excellent botanical garden Don’t leave without going for a dip at ",{"type":"a","content":["Lago Martiánez"],"attrs":{"href":"https://lagomartianez.es/en/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," the old-world Ébano Café is a fine place for a late-morning coffee under the gaze of a 17th-century church."," "]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["Afternoon"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"From Puerto de la Cruz the coastal road snakes westward between forested hills and the sea It’s a 30-minute drive to the little town of Icod de los Vinos to see its semi-mythical dragon tree — a bizarre banyan-like plant rumoured to be 1,000 years old escape the sunshine with a 10-minute hop up the hill to the entrance of ",{"type":"a","content":["Cueva del Viento"],"attrs":{"href":"https://cuevadelviento.net/en/home/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," — the evocatively named ‘Cave of the Wind’ — for a guided tour of Europe’s largest network of lava tubes a little rocky peninsula with distant views of neighbouring island La Palma."," "]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["Evening"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Partly destroyed by lava flows in the 18th century the little village of Garachico was subsequently rebuilt and is perhaps the most graceful settlement on Tenerife’s north coast In the absence of big hotels and blockbuster beaches it’s also one of the best places on the island to measure the pulse of traditional Canarian life Terracotta-roofed houses huddle under the bell tower of the village church and a buttercup-yellow convent while old men play dominoes and children scamper in the leafy Plaza de la Libertad Take an evening stroll through the town before adjourning to seafood specialist ",{"type":"a","content":["Restaurante Arístides"],"attrs":{"href":"https://restaurantearistides.com/en/home-2/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," where traditional simmered octopus and fresh fish prop up the menu."," "]},{"type":"inline","content":{"name":"Image","props":{"link":{},"caption":{"title":"","credit":"Photograph by Getty Images","source":"","text":"Late afternoon in Plaza de la Libertad Garachico.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false},"image":{"id":"Late afternoon in Plaza de la Libertad Garachico.","showCopyright":"Please be respectful of copyright Unauthorized use is prohibited.","alt":"Late afternoon in Plaza de la Libertad the highest town in Spain — it’ll also be a high point of any trip to Tenerife leafy parks and narrow streets cascading down hair-raisingly steep slopes Start your day wandering among the aristocratic mansions lining Calle San Francisco — the most notable of which is the 17th-century ",{"type":"a","content":["Casa de los Balcones"],"attrs":{"href":"https://casa-balcones.com/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," "," "," "]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["Afternoon"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"The Anaga mountains form a long tapering ridge crowned by laurel forests at whose base a lighthouse blinks out to sea."," "]}],{"type":"inline","content":{"name":"Ad","props":{"ad":{"type":"fitt-article-inline-box","className":"fitt-article-inline-box"},"className":"natgeo-ad","placeholders":{"compact":{"size":[300,250]},"regular":{"size":[300,250]}},"initSelf":true},"context":{},"config":{"gridDisplayMode":"none"}}},[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["Evening"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Poised on the saddle between the Anaga range and Mount Teide La Laguna was once the capital of the Canary Islands before ceding its crown to busy Santa Cruz just down the hill By day it’s a handsome university town with a few imposing churches and museums arranged around a grid of pastel-hued streets parasols and gaggles of students spilling onto the cobbles It’s a great spot for some gastronomic roving tiny ",{"type":"a","content":["Tasca 61"],"attrs":{"href":"https://www.tasca61.com/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," has a fine stock of artisanal cheeses and a slow food ethos sticky redemption of churros."," "]},{"type":"inline","content":{"name":"Image","props":{"link":{},"caption":{"title":"","credit":"Photograph by Getty Images","source":"","text":"Roques de San Pedro the nearest island to Tenerife.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false},"image":{"id":"Roques de San Pedro the nearest island to Tenerife.","showCopyright":"Please be respectful of copyright Unauthorized use is prohibited.","alt":"Roques de San Pedro from scaling volcanoes to spotting whales"]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["1 Whale-watching and Los Gigantes"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Known to the Guanches as the ‘Walls of Hell’ Los Gigantes are the 1,640ft-high cliffs that dominate Tenerife’s northwestern tip They’re an hour’s drive from Garachico on the north coast At the base of Los Gigantes sits a little seaside town of the same name black-sand beach and a harbour that serves as a springboard for whale- and dolphin-watching trips November to February is peak season for encounters with migratory humpback whales too — they’re often seen making acrobatic leaps in the shadow"," ",{"type":"br","content":[]},"of the cliffs Book with local operators ",{"type":"a","content":["Third Element Charters"],"attrs":{"href":"https://thirdelementcharters.com/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," or ",{"type":"a","content":["Flipper Uno"],"attrs":{"href":"https://www.flipperuno.com/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}},"."," "]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["2 Mount Teide summit"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Whether they realise it or not all visitors to Tenerife travel in the orbit of ",{"type":"a","content":["Mount Teide"],"attrs":{"href":"https://www.volcanoteide.com/en","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," — the central volcano that’s as high as four Snowdons as altitude sickness can be an issue at this lofty perch."," "]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["3 La Gomera"," "]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Among the smallest of the main Canary Islands La Gomera is Tenerife’s nearest neighbour"," ","— close enough to be accessible by 50-minute ferry ride from the quays at Los Cristianos Playa Maria Jimenez"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"This urban beach sits on the western edge of Puerto de la Cruz It’s a family favourite but beware of powerful currents (an issue all along the north coast)."]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["2 Playa de Benijo"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Reaching this beach at the extreme northeastern tip of Tenerife entails a hair-raising drive down from the Anaga Mountains fuels them with traditional Canarian food."]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["3 Playa de San Telmo"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"A tiny beach at the heart of Puerto de la Cruz the cafe-lined promenade above provides magnificent views."]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["4 Playa el Bollullo"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Concealed by steep cliffs or else hole up in the no-frills beach bar."]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["5 Playa de San Marcos"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"Beaches become scarcer the closer you get to the northwestern tip of the island served with mojo rojo and mojo verde sauces.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false},"image":{"id":"Papas arrugadas served with mojo rojo and mojo verde sauces.","showCopyright":"Please be respectful of copyright Unauthorized use is prohibited.","alt":"Papas arrugadas Papas arrugadas"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"This is the quintessential Tenerife dish they typically turn up in the company of both red and green pepper sauces"," ","— mojo rojo and mojo"," ","verde respectively."]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["2 Ropa vieja"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"While it translates rather unappetisingly as ‘old clothes’ having travelled across the Atlantic with Canarian seafarers."]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"b","content":["3 Goat’s cheese"]},{"type":"br","content":[]},"There are artisanal cheeses galore in Tenerife; largely taking the form of goat’s cheese Look out for other goat’s cheeses from across the archipelago — majorero from Fuerteventura (not dissimilar to manchego) and salty palmero from nearby La Palma."]},{"type":"h2","content":["How to do it"," "]},{"type":"p","content":["Tenerife’s two main airports the small Tenerife Norte Airport (served by regional flights from Spain) and the much bigger Tenerife South Airport are served by British Airways EasyJet and ",{"type":"a","content":["Jet2"],"attrs":{"href":"https://www.jet2.com/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," from several UK hubs ba.com "," ","ryanair.com "," ","easyjet.com"]},{"type":"p","content":["Local bus operator ",{"type":"a","content":["Titsa"],"attrs":{"href":"https://titsa.com/index.php/en/","rel":"nofollow noopener noreferrer","target":"_blank"}}," provides a comprehensive network of routes between Garachico a cafe in the Old Town of Puerto de la Cruz.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false}}},{"type":"image","data":{"disableFullscreen":false,"articleConfig":{"alignXxs":"full","align":"full"},"image":{"id":"Late afternoon in Plaza de la Libertad Garachico.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false}}},{"type":"image","data":{"disableFullscreen":false,"articleConfig":{"alignXxs":"full","align":"full"},"image":{"id":"Roques de San Pedro the nearest island to Tenerife.","lines":3,"showMoreText":"Read More","showLess":false}}},{"type":"image","data":{"disableFullscreen":false,"articleConfig":{"alignXxs":"full","align":"full"},"image":{"id":"Papas arrugadas Getty Images","dsc":"Paul ‘Barbs’ Barbato began his YouTube channel in 2014 and has amassed over three million followers.","rchDsc":{"markup":"Paul ‘Barbs’ Barbato began his YouTube channel in 2014 and has amassed over three million followers."},"rchTtl":{"markup":""},"ratio":"3x2"},"isFeatured":true,"sections":[{"name":"Travel","id":"432c4f83-2d55-3974-b95f-a221c87c0fd1","type":"sources","uri":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel"}],"headline":"This YouTuber made a travel encyclopedia of the world","link":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/meet-paul-barbato-geography-now-youtube-channel"},{"description":"Lined with hip cafes Zagreb Tourist Board","rchDsc":{"markup":" "},"rchTtl":{"markup":""}},"sections":["Paid Content"],"headline":"How to spend a long weekend in Zagreb Croatia","link":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/paid-content-long-weekend-zagreb-croatia"},{"description":"Nature pulls out all the stops in southwest Wales a cliff-dominated island with a popular sandy beach.","crdt":"Photograph by Peter Orsel Tenerife provides constant surprises © Thierry Hebbelinck / Getty Images Once known for its wild all-night parties, Tenerife now enthralls with even wilder landscapes – and a million and one ways to embrace them Time your visit right and you can ride massive Atlantic rollers hike through prehistoric laurel forests ripe for a Tolkien fantasy flop on volcanic beaches and pedal through crater-pocked lunar landscapes with Mt Teide peeking over your shoulder Much of Europe might be bundled up in coats and shivering but Tenerife is closer to the coast of Africa than Spain and this difference is reflected in mild winter temperatures which rarely dip below 15ºC (60°F) and sometimes hit a balmy 22ºC (71°F) plenty of sunshine and clear blue skies that are a tonic to vitamin D-deprived travelers The Atlantic is a little chilly this time of year Bear in mind that south coast resorts are a touch warmer than those in the north, where the weather can be more fickle. You’ll want to pack layers if you’re heading into the mountains or up Pico del Teide Heavy snow can mean the sudden closure of roads and trails Surfers come in winter to ride big rollers on the south coast. Whale watching on the Costa Adeje is terrific Not only can you see the usual resident pilot whales and dolphins but you’ll also spot migratory species like fin whales Birdwatchers are also in their element in winter Winter is a popular season to visit, particularly in February, when the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife You’ll pay top rates for rooms during the Christmas holidays and carnival time Crowds also surge in summer, especially during school vacations, and flight prices and room rates soar. The island sizzles in temperatures up to 31ºC (88°F), though Atlantic breezes make the heat tolerable. This is the time for flopping on the beach, swimming, kitesurfing and windsurfing at El Médano The island flicks into fiesta and music-festival mode and south-coast resorts ramp up their party scene valleys and gorges lushly green and freckled with wildflowers in mountainous areas like Anaga Parque Nacional del Teide and Parque Rural de Teno in the island’s rugged north paraglide above volcanic landscapes and strike out on mountain-to-coast trails like the Barranco de Masca you’ll feel as though you have Tenerife all to yourself in fall and the Atlantic has had all summer to warm up It’s a fine month for exploring, so combine the coast with hikes in the mountains, wine tasting at inland bodegas and culture in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the historic center of Unesco World Heritage La Laguna Bring waterproof clothing or an umbrella in October (Given how wonderfully quiet the island is at this time you can forgive it the odd downpour.) The surfing season lasts from September to April Ay ay ay! The whole island goes mad for Carnaval in February, with glittering parades, parties and samba beats that bring Rio to the capital Santa Cruz. Book far in advance to reserve a room. Puffed white with almond blossom, the island looks gorgeous. Hike the Almond Blossom Route that starts in Santiago del Teide to see it at its blooming best.Key events: Carnaval Tenerife is coming into flower and warming up in March, making this a great time for uncrowded beach days or backcountry hikes and bike rides. Folk concerts bring Canarian culture to life in south coast Arona. Key events: Festival of Early and Baroque Music Semana Santa (Holy Week) brings emotive religious processions to traditional towns and villages like La Laguna, Güímar and La Orotava. April is overall a quiet month, but room rates and visitor numbers spike around Easter. You’ll get the odd showery or cloudy day, but also plenty of sun.Key events: Semana Santa One of the loveliest, most-overlooked months on Tenerife, May is mostly sunny and dry, ideal for planning outdoor escapades or just crashing on the nearest beach. Cafe and restaurant terraces hum as the evenings get warmer. Santa Cruz de Tenerife throws a huge May festival, with balls, pageants and food and craft fairs. The highlight is Día de la Cruz (Holy Cross Day) on May 3, with parades and costumed parties.Key events: Fiestas de Mayo, MUECA lots of sunshine and refreshingly few crowds Puerto de la Cruz celebrates San Juan (St John) on June 23 The town of La Orotava is carpeted in elaborate tapestries of flowers and sand for Corpus Christi.Key events: Fiestas de San Juan The island buzzes with people and parties in August The events calendar is jam-packed. Pro windsurfers catch breezes at the PWA World Cup in El Médano. Take a deep dive into the island’s culture at festivals like the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria, which honors the island’s patron saint with mid-month pilgrimages and parades.Key events: Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria, Corazones de Tejina October is the wettest month in Tenerife, but don’t let that put you off: temperatures can still creep up to a very pleasant 26ºC (79°F), though nights are cooler. It’s a quiet month for rambles into the mountains or along the coast. In the island's west, the village of Aripe holds a fair to celebrate the almond harvest.Key events: Tenerife Opera Festival December is full of festive sparkle, fiestas and fireworks. The price of flights, hotels and crowds shoots up as travelers flock here for Navidad (Christmas) and Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve).Key events: Puertos de Tenerife Christmas concert The Local Europe ABVästmannagatan 43113 25 StockholmSweden Dozens of protesters gathered at the gates of Loro Parque in the touristy town of Puerto de La Cruz on Saturday Loro Parque is one of the top tourist attractions in Tenerife starting off as a parrot sanctuary in 1972 but evolving into a zoo and SeaWorld-style marine complex which receives several million visitors a year The owner of Loro Parque is 87-year-old German national Wolfgang Kiessling the wealthiest man in Tenerife with an estimated net worth of €370 million Loro Park gained international notoriety after the release of the 2013 documentary Blackfish which looked at the treatment of killer whales in captivity and which partly focused on the death of an orca trainer in 2009 at Tenerife's Loro Parque after being attacked by one of the animals Protesters carried signs that read “no to animal abuse” “those born to swim in oceans should not do so in tears” and “don't lie to your child The rally promoted by environmentalist group 'Empty the tanks' was held in 60 cities around the world on Saturday to demand the release of dolphins and orcas Protesters booed the Loro Parque train that took holidaymakers as it approached the facilities while showing them banners that read “tourist what you pay is for slaughtered orcas” or “this shit at Loro Park is going to end” are other signs that were carried Kiessling released a controversial video in which he attacked environmentalists stating: “They want us to live like vegans and they also want to influence our holidays so that we do not visit zoos” The Loro Parque has received large subsidies from the Canary government and benefited from tax incentives that allows them to pay taxes on only 10 percent of the profits Billboards and dustbins across the island have promotional posters of Loro Parque on them describing it as "the must-see of the Canaries" The animal rights protest against Loro Parque comes just four weeks after thousands of canarios took to the streets of their eight islands to call for an end to mass tourism READ ALSO: 'The island can't take it anymore': Why Tenerife is rejecting mass tourism Please log in here to leave a comment. Playa Blanca has been rated the second-best resort in the Canary Islands by Which? Travel magazine readers, as revealed in the latest edition. An article in the November edition of Which? Travel magazine titled “Rated by you – The Canary Islands’ best and worst resorts” has placed Playa Blanca as the second-best resort in the Canaries. The ratings come after a survey conducted by Which? and features star ratings in categories for each resort listed. The list is as follows: Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Jet2 is expanding its winter 25/26 programme with more flights to 13 popular destinations (including Lanzarote & Fuerteventura) from Manchester Airport & London Stansted. Fire fighters were called to put out a minibus engine fire yesterday morning. Lanzarote Pool & Spa Shop in Playa Blanca are currently looking for an Office Administrator & Customer Service Representative. A head-on collision between two vehicles on the LZ-1 near Mala yesterday evening saw three people injured. Six local derbies will take place next season as three Lanzarote teams take part in Group 12 of the Third RFEF league. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Sign-up to the Gazette Newsletter to receive a weekly email including the most important news stories and upcoming events. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Strictly necessary cookies should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. editing by Andrei Khalip and Angus MacSwan Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab , opens new tab Browse an unrivalled portfolio of real-time and historical market data and insights from worldwide sources and experts. , opens new tabScreen for heightened risk individual and entities globally to help uncover hidden risks in business relationships and human networks. © 2025 Reuters. All rights reserved The Caste War of Yucatán was an ethnic conflict that took place in the Yucatán Peninsula between the mid-19th and early 20th centuries this area has one of the highest percentages of Indigenous people in Mexico and the ratio was been even higher at the time of the war Given the remoteness of the peninsula compared to Mexico City and other seats of Colonial Spanish power the Yucatec Maya were relatively isolated from the rest of New Spain But that changed after Mexico gained its independence in 1821 as many Spanish-speaking migrants with European or mixed ancestry moved to the Yucatán for its economic opportunities Yucatec Maya people were then employed in exploitative conditions in factories and haciendas while the government consciously tried to erase their language and traditions The establishment of the Maya town of Chan Santa Cruz was a crucial point in the Caste War conflict which had begun years earlier with Maya forces supplied with weapons by the British Empire Chan Santa Cruz was named after the Holy Cross with the "chan" being a term of endearment in the Yucatec Maya language The Holy Cross of this town was an example of the cultural syncretism between European Catholicism and the traditional Maya religion Since the Maya worshipped trees such as the mighty ceiba the wood connection allowed priests to introduce the cross as a Christian stand-in even the radically anti-colonial rebel leaders saw the vision of a talking cross as a sign that they were fighting for the right cause as it would often speak to them in the voice of God to guide the fight The sanctuary built for this Talking Cross still stands and can now be visited in the town named after the Governor that assisted in reconciliation efforts after the Caste War Followers of the Talking Cross called themselves the Cruzo'ob or Cruzob Chan Santa Cruz continued to grow and become one of Mexico's main Indigenous populations while the numbers of cruzo'ob believers kept steady before a slow decline that continues to this day While Catholicism is the majority religion in modern-day Yucatán the presence of the typically Yucatec altar remains as a legacy of the cruzo'ob painted in either blue or green (a practice shared across many Maya communities including the Chiapas highlands) and dressed with hipiles Lit candles or Christmas lights will often complete the altar The only surviving relic of the abandoned Dominican convent This rural roadside cross marks the farthest point of Coronado's expedition and the place where the Catholic faith first came to America This mosque was built overnight as an act of defiance against the British colonial authorities On the roof of the oldest department store in Tainan stands a Shinto shrine dating back to the 1930s a beloved roadside chapel peacefully welcomes the faithful and curious alike The ruins of a 16th-century Spanish convent tell a forgotten history This century-old site established by King Mwezi Gisabo preserves the art of Burundi's ancient drum rituals this Roman Catholic Cathedral has helped organize peace talks The Canarian studio of Fernando Menis has been commissioned to draw up a basic scheme for redeveloping the waterfront park of Puerto de la Cruz a municipality in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife there arent any match using your search terms The 13 municipalities forming the Association of Tourist Municipalities of the Canary Islands similar to the one recently announced by Onalia Bueno has sparked debate among the municipalities the association's president and Mayor of Adeje in the south of Tenerife acknowledged that there is no unified stance on the issue "We all have different perspectives on the matter," he said held at the Museo Élder in Las Palmas included representatives from the other 11 tourism municipalities: Antigua Rodríguez advocated for a designated tax that benefits the tourism sector directly if such a tax is implemented Fraga expressed the need for careful consideration Given the municipalities' capabilities we need to determine whether it's the right time to implement this," he said He emphasised that any tax should be used to enhance the quality and competitiveness of services offered to tourists in the destination "It's risky for all of us to rush into implementing every new idea that comes up," he said "We need to work with a long-term vision and more depth." Mogán is the only municipality committed to approving a tourist tax serving as the association's vice president indicated that Mogán is looking at examples from other destinations in Europe Bueno highlighted that all the funds collected from January 2025 onward will be invested back into maintaining and improving tourist areas "If investors are renewing their properties the public administration must parallel those efforts," she said Both Bueno and Fraga agree that the tax should have a specific purpose Bueno added that they are still determining the appropriate tax amounts noting significant variations across European cities Another pressing issue is the regulation of holiday rental properties Bueno mentioned that the Canary Islands government might be making superficial changes to the draft bill without addressing deeper concerns "I hope things change after these declarations especially regarding municipal jurisdiction over compensation rights and inspections," she said She stressed the need for tailored regulations considering the diverse needs of different islands "We must regulate and control holiday rentals but not apply a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach or Tenerife as Gran Canaria," she said Fraga pointed out that even within individual islands tourist apartments in inland areas of Gran Canaria are empty off-season We must also protect small investors," he continued The association's president indicated that they are reviewing the draft and addressing concerns particularly regarding the additional responsibilities placed on municipal governments "There are aspects that concern us as municipalities because they pass on a burden and responsibility that we need to analyse carefully It's not easy to manage," he concluded so does one of the most pressing issues for the Canary Islands: sewage pollution Illegal discharges are causing beach closures across the archipelago forcing authorities to act to protect swimmers from potential viral and bacterial contamination with detailed information available on Grafcan showcasing the numerous hotspots where underwater outlets compromise water quality Here is a map of the discharge points in the Canary Islands: The islands' coastlines are dotted with these problematic land-to-sea sewage discharge points 394 in total (116 with permission and 278 illegal ones) jeopardising the quality of the waters surrounding us Travelling along the GC-1 motorway in Gran Canaria towards the south and parts of Maspalomas in San Bartolomé de Tirajana with locations like Faro de Sardina (Gáldar) and La Aldea de San Nicolás affected It is almost impossible to find a coastal municipality free from this issue with several beaches having to close temporarily A notable instance occurred at Las Teresitas which saw a closure in early July due to significant contamination levels After thorough testing confirmed the water was safe allowing residents and tourists to enjoy the summer Other affected areas include El Médano in Granadilla de Abona and Adeje with Playa Jardín in Puerto de La Cruz also recently reported as contaminated Playa Blanca in Yaiza frequently reports high levels of faecal bacteria Fuerteventura has issues near the desalination plant at Puertito de la Cruz (Pájara) and the underwater discharge point at Gran Tarajal Marine biologist and educator Pablo Martín humorously highlighted the issue in an Instagram video ironically noting that the Canary Islands are "leaders in marine pollution." He criticised the sewage pipes that discharge waste directly into the sea calling them "a prime example of modern development in the 21st century." Martín explained that beach closures due to bacterial contamination are more frequent in summer as higher temperatures and calmer waters exacerbate the problem He mentioned that the European Union has repeatedly reprimanded Spain for this issue with the Canary Islands being significant contributors to the problem but it seems our politicians enjoy living on the edge creating a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses that endanger both human and marine life Have you ever experienced gastroenteritis after a day at the beach?" Martín asked highlighting the severe consequences of this ongoing problem The TimesThe most popular of the Canary Islands among British visitors has an unmistakable profile the highest mountain in Spain at 3,718 metres and the rest of the island ripples outwards from this giant peak Big tourism destinations such as Playa de las Americas are clustered around the island’s southwestern corner More traditional tourist towns (notably Puerto de la Cruz) are up on the north coast while the capital and main port of Santa Cruz And finally the rugged Anaga mountains just to the north of Santa Cruz are still a remote place of goat bells lingering mists and potato farmers living in cave-houses Here are a few of my favourite things to do on the island Our travel journalism is written and edited by independent experts to inform inspire and advise our readers about the best choices for your holidays We also feature properties and itineraries from a specially selected list of trusted operators These buttons and adverts are clearly signposted and provide direct links through to external sites Sooner or later almost every visitor to Tenerife finds their way up the island’s landmark starting from the island’s west flank at Guia de Isora and ascending gradually through belts of cloud-shrouded pines Eventually you will broach the Cañadas crater and reach the otherworldly Teide national park a Unesco world heritage site with a good visitor centre and a parador for those who want to take advantage of waymarked walks and gaze at the stars The view from the top of El Teide volcano (Alamy)2 Tackle Teide’s topSome visitors to the Cañadas crater will want to push on upwards but the going is tough and altitude sickness and cold can be a factor Most settle for the cable car up to La Rambleta and then tackle the last 45 minutes on foot Obligatory permits for the top are issued by the park authority Permits are included in excursions with cable car plus guide via Volcano Teide Chill in PuertoThe most charming and historical of the island’s resorts genteel Puerto de la Cruz sits midway along the more fertile northern coast Downtown there’s good shopping and eating in a nest of pleasing pedestrianised streets overhung with flower-bedecked and typically Canarian balconies but the Lago Martianez is a confection of seawater pools and islands created with great flair by César Manrique the local artist who transformed Lanzarote Santa’s shoppingThe Canary Islands have economic independence from Spain which means they get to set their own (usually very low) rates of VAT designer goods can be 10 per cent or more cheaper here which makes a very good reason for a trip to capital Santa Cruz’s buzzing Calle del Castillo for internationally known stores selling fashion The more exclusive luxury brands are found in more intimate settings around the corner in Calle del Pilar Bright lights and beachesDepending on your viewpoint Playa de las Americas and its neighbour Los Cristianos By day the action focuses on Playa’s big sandy curve of a bay while by night the scene drifts inland to the Veronica strip at the back of the beach a gathering place of teenage hedonists where the action kicks off after 10pm Meanwhile the oceanfront paseo in Los Cristianos sets a more mature tempo with salsa and cocktails Splash out in SiamA Thai-themed water park on an island in the Atlantic but Siam Park is one of the big success stories of Tenerife tourism It’s a family day out that can be taken at any pace that suits you because set among those distinctive curved Thai rooflines is everything from lazy rivers to wave lagoons and Tower of Power freefall slides Don’t expect spicy sour soup and green curries among the temples and dragons though: this is burgers and cocktails country Chase the dragonAn 800-year-old dragon tree is a good reason for seeking out the 16th-century town of Icod de los Vinos this is one of the most unspoiled of settlements on Tenerife The Drago Milenario itself is the largest and oldest of several such trees in the area but you can see it for free while sitting in the back patio of the adjacent Casa del Drago sipping a dragon’s blood liqueur made from its resin Tenerife’s western tip is a land of jagged ravines concealing the tiny bougainvillea-rich village of Masca Getting here shouldn’t be attempted on a full stomach on a road that repeatedly turns itself inside out The village is the starting point for a three-hour scramble down the Masca gorge lizards to avoid treading on and prickly pears to negotiate and you don’t actually see the sea until virtually the last moment The Auditorio de Tenerife in Santa Cruz (Alamy)9 Celebrate culture in Santa CruzTenerife’s answer to the Sydney Opera House is Santiago Calatrava’s extraordinary Auditorio in Santa Cruz This quayside concert hall looks like a giant anteater pushing a wheelbarrow But the biggest celebration of the year is in the streets outside every February and generally acknowledged as the second most extravagant in the world after Rio this riot of dancing and blizzard of fancy dress culminates in the ritual “burial of the sardine” museum and restaurant in Puerto de la Cruz (Alamy)10 Seek out local foodIt’s not easy to find the papas arrugadas (“wrinkly potatoes”) Malvasia wines and gofio (roasted maize flour) that used to be staples of the Canarian diet in pre-tourism days Back in Shakespeare’s time the sweet Malvasia wines were big imports to the UK the “cup of canary” as demanded by Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night Today the best place to seek out local ingredients is among the sympathetically converted Canarian mansions in Puerto de la Cruz which serves a succulent swordfish and grouper fish stew with added gofio Swim in lavaBack in the 17th century Garachico the sleepy cobbled town west of Puerto de la Cruz handling much of the sugarcane and cochineal that once grew along these shores its position on a little instep of land at the foot of Mount Teide was always going to be vulnerable and the lava flow from Teide’s 1706 eruption came sliding down Today those sea-surrounded gobbets of tortured lava shelter a little network of saltwater pools Hike a trail in the Anaga mountains (Alamy)12 Walk the AnagaTenerife’s remote northeast corner is a different world to the rest of the island Potato farmers and goat herders still live in cave-house villages such as Chinamada The only tourists here are hikers on the trails still used by these farmers If you want to go it alone the long descent from the Cruz del Carmen crossroads to Punta del Hidalgo a four-hour hike that will take in Chinamada connects with the Titsa bus route back to Santa Cruz Loro Parque lifeThe veteran of all the parks in Tenerife is family favourite Loro Parque which started out as a paradise for parrots and has expanded into a fully-fledged “animal embassy” (aka zoo) fish and reptiles — while still retaining the parrot paradise that drew in the first of a stonking 50 million visitors over its 50 years A daily schedule of shows involves flying demonstrations by trained birds who delight in rearranging the hair partings of audience members Watch pilot whales between Tenerife and La Gomera (Getty Images)14 Watch some whalesExtremely co-operative pods of dolphins and pilot whales sunbathe in the straits between Tenerife and adjacent island La Gomera They are best admired on a trip out of Costa Adeje with Ocean Blue and similar operators with the chance to admire the towering cliffs at Los Gigantes and the full height of El Teide en route Either the meeting of ocean currents supplies a good source of nutrients or there must be something infectious about Tenerife’s holiday atmosphere Choose your sand colourTenerife’s origins means that many a beach is fundamentally made from black volcanic sand best seen under the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes For a while this unusual beach material was presented as mineral-rich and therapeutic but there’s no mistaking the fact that it looks a bit grubby on your legs and in the brochures so these days the picture-postcard playas of the main resorts are layered in imported blondes The pioneer was the beach at Las Teresitas where 3.5 million cubic feet of golden sand was brought over from the Sahara Hang out with heritageTenerife’s second city is often overlooked by visitors because of its location up on the spine of the island That location means that it has retained much of its essential Spanish character and its 16th-century cathedral and ancient mansions enclosing flower-bedecked patios have earned it Unesco world heritage status It’s also the home of the island’s university Tenerife’s combination of volcanic soil and intense sun make great conditions for growing bananas (Getty Images)17 and now the mainstay of Tenerife agriculture is the banana grown in dense rectangles that tessellate the landscape in patches of green The combination of volcanic soil and intense sun makes ideal growing conditions so the fruit is particularly sweet and tasty Several plantations offer tours and tastings and many are conveniently close to the island’s popular southwestern corner Tenerife has a long tradition with British society In Victorian days it began to be a resort for the elite Agatha Christie came with her 11-year-old daughter These days the Gran Hotel Taoro has closed but the Hotel Botanico still flies the flag for dignified luxury It sits alongside a favourite destination of those early tourists an El Dorado for acacias and mimosas en route to Spain The astronomical observatory in the Teide volcano national park (Alamy)19 Drink in the night skiesThe air up in the Teide crater is so clear and sharp that you can almost hear it squeak that there’s an observatory in the caldera (although its sister establishment on neighbouring La Palma is far bigger) Guided groups come up here to stand beneath the glittery stream of the Milky Way peering through seriously big telescopes at nebulae and clusters counting Saturn’s rings and learning why Polaris but Polaris is aligned with the earth’s axis) Day trip to La GomeraTenerife’s neighbour looks just a stone’s throw away and with fast ferries departing frequently from Los Cristianos many visitors are tempted to see what life is like on the other side Take an early departure and there’s enough time for a complete island circuit but even just nipping across to Gomera’s chilled-out port Sip a wine up on the terrace of one of Spain’s most delightful paradors A steep island like Tenerife will never be short of roadside miradors viewpoints from which to gaze out across the water for tall ships voyaging in the wake of Christopher Columbus Reliable trade winds mean the Canaries are still the starting point for Atlantic crossings is an ideal place to linger over an ice cream while scanning the horizon for doughty navigators and mystery islands Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF. members to rate their overall experience in a Canary Island resort they visited in the past two years They rated everything from the beaches to scenery and whether the resort offered peace and quiet whether you’re looking for upmarket hotels in lesser-known areas of the islands serene fishing villages or wild volcanic trails Which is the least touristy Canary Island? Where can I find the best hotels in Gran Canaria Where are the best beaches and the least tacky resorts You may be thinking twice about the Canaries after recent anti-tourism protests an onus on holidaymakers to visit responsibly – scroll to the end of this article to learn how to do your bit Get the Which? Travel newsletter - it's free Here are the best and worst towns and resorts in the Canary Island Show all rowsKeen to travel elsewhere in Europe? See how Which? members rated seaside and beach towns in the Mediterranean  Puerto de MogánWhich part of Gran Canaria is the best to stay in?Best resort in Gran Canaria — Puerto de Mogán Gran Canaria 90%It’s no wonder that this resort tops the table once again in our annual survey – Mogán’s hotels are among the best that you’ll book in the Canaries (five stars) and it was the only destination that scored four stars for value for money After relaxing on the stunning sheltered beaches and exploring the charming old town Members gave this yachtie-frequented resort four stars for its eateries The spot has dropped a couple of stars when it comes to peace and quiet since our last survey 2020 due to day trippers swinging by jump in the car and explore more of the west of the island - the most remote and under-visited part of Gran Canaria Playa Blanca Which part of Lanzarote is best to stay in?Best resort in Lanzarote — Playa Blanca 77%With a resort that’s smaller and smarter than others on the island at the Southern tip of Lanzarote was rated better than average for tranquility – no riotous party bars to be seen here And it reigned supreme when compared with other resorts in Lanzarote The resort has an undeniably upmarket feel to it with its numerous al fresco eateries and swanky yachts moored on the quay You’ll find a good spread of dining options decent hotel complexes (though bear in mind only a few are by the sea) the white beach that christened this top-scoring resort the next time anyone makes tired jokes about 'Lanzagrotty' cough politely and point them towards Playa Blanca To experience a different side of Canarian life This little hamlet with its traditional whitewashed homes scattered about the hillside is the place for some peace and quiet Costa Adeje Which part of Tenerife is best to stay in?Best Resort in Tenerife — Costa Adeje 75%If you’re looking for a top hotel positioned right on the coast from the Bahia del Duque (grande dame of hospitality) to the stylish adults-only Royal Hideaway Corales Beach or a family favourite such as Iberostar Selection Anthelia There’s plenty of attractions and shopping options: waterparks wild beaches like Hernández (if you don’t mind nudists) and even the al fresco Plaza del Duque shopping centre near to the resort’s most celebrated beach It's also right next to the ferry at Los Cristianos to La Gomera island Corralejo Which part of Fuerteventura is best to stay in?Best Resort In Fuerteventura — Corralejo 69%Corralejo – a modern working town on Fuerteventura’s north tip – is the Canaries resort for people who don’t like resorts Corralejo was rated four stars for its down to earth accommodation The nearby Corralejo National Park is six miles of Sahara-esque sand lapped by a turquoise sea You can also take a surf or kiteboard lesson in the near-constant breeze or take a ferry to go mountain biking and hiking in the uninhabited Isla de Lobos Playa de SantiagoBest resort for peace and quietPlaya de Santiago You have to take a domestic flight after your 4.5-hour flight from the UK or board a ferry as the last leg of an all-day flight-bus-ferry odyssey Now the good news: it’s worth it — it was the only resort awarded four stars for peace and quiet The former fishing village is a modest grid of a dozen or so streets with no shots-bars or discos and only a few shops the one-star beach is a shocker by Canaries standards (it’s built of grey shingle) but it’s the perfect place to breakfast slowly it never pretended to be anything other than somewhere for sun all delivered through cut-price all-inclusive package holidays and spiced by raucous nightlife on 'The Golden Mile' If you’re looking for intoxicated chaos and hedonism Puerto de Mogán Which is the prettiest Canary Island resort?Top rated Puerto de Mogán in Gran Canaria stole the show in our 2024 survey as the only resort awarded four stars for its scenery But if photo opportunities are what you’re after consider the underrated island of La Palma Beauty here doesn’t come in the form of sand in shades of gold but 'La Isla Bonita' (the Pretty Island) certainly lives up to its marketing moniker Regular boats leave from Orzola in northern Lanzarote en route to the sandy islet It’s a rough but blissfully short journey and soon enough you find yourself in the whitewashed pueblo of Caleta de Sebo Most people book the Canaries for a beach break This spot won one of the top overall ratings for its attractions in our latest survey And with good reason – it’s the only destination in the archipelago where you feel the pulse of history museums and even a 16th-century cathedral on handsome Plaza Mayor (don’t miss the tower viewpoint) you might consider a visit to Tenerife’s Puerto de la Cruz which scored a decent 71% overall and also received one of the top ratings for tourist attractions Why are people protesting in the Canary Islands?‘Canarias tiene un limite’ read the banners at  demonstrations across the islands in April – the Canaries have a limit.The 35,000-plus protestors had come out against the Canary Islands’ tourism strategy not tourists themselves but until that changes there’s a duty on visitors – 13.9 million in 2023 (seven times the resident population) to visit responsibly A major source of friction is international mega-hotels which siphon money from the islands’ economy. Iberostar is a multinational, but Spanish family owned and rated the top international hotel chain in our survey. Try to avoid holiday homes and apartments  These also reduce the pool of properties available to residents. Put your money in locals’ pockets by eating out at locally-owned eateries, and consider tipping – for example, a 10% tip is appreciated, even if it isn’t compulsory. Try your best to conserve water. The Canaries are suffering their worst drought since records began and tourist areas use up to six times more water than residents. Not changing towels and sheets each day makes a big difference. Are the Canary Islands warm all year? Due to their subtropical climate, the Canary Islands experience warm autumns and mild winters with max temperatures of 18-21 degrees and six to seven hours of sunshine, compared to the UK’s 7-10 degrees and one hour or two hours of daily sunshine. Average maximum temperatures according to Weather2Travel: In July 2024 we surveyed Which? members about 1,236 experiences of staying in a Canary Island resort town in the last two years. Star ratings out of five. A dash (-) indicates not enough responses to provide a rating. Resort score based on a combination of overall satisfaction and likelihood of recommending Sample sizes: Puerto Mogan (49), Playa Blanca (155), Costa Adeje (140), Costa Teguise (97), Las Palmas (33), Puerto del Carmen (71), Playa de Santiago (34), Puerto de la cruz (46), Corralejo (65), Playa de las Americas (44), Golf del Sur (32), Los Cristianos (51), Maspalomas (40), Caleta de Fuste (Costa Caleta) (49), Playa del Ingles (30). giving you on-the-go access to our reviews With these top tips it's easy to get the best out of a trip to Tenerife © Westend61 / Getty Images Dominated by the sky-high summit of El Teide, Spain’s tallest peak, Tenerife evokes everything that makes Spain’s sun-dappled Canary Islands such an endlessly enticing destination Elegant ancient towns, lively ports and isolated mountain villages mingle amidst otherworldly volcanic landscapes, and the arts shine in the cultured capital, Santa Cruz home of the country’s most fabulous carnival Peaceful walking trails weave past mist-shrouded hills and magma-molded calderas waves wash onto volcanic-pebble beaches and shimmering natural sea pools You’ll need a good few days to truly explore this deliciously diverse island from hiking permits to Michelin-star dining one of Europe’s favorite vacation playgrounds Here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable stay on Tenerife Tenerife’s big festival blowout is its three-week Carnaval – a nonstop, sequin-clad, Caribbean-influenced celebration that takes over the buzzy capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife each February Hailed as one of Spain’s greatest carnivals but expect soaring accommodation and flight prices The warm winter months from December to February are the high season for northern Europeans seeking sunshine while the hot summer (June to September) is a popular time for Spanish vacationers The in-between months of October and November are usually quieter and cooler – around 25°C (77°F) on the coast – with good deals on accommodations and there’s wonderful hiking through fields of spring wildflowers from March to May Tenerife’s top natural thrill is the chance to summit Spain’s tallest peak, 3718m (12,198ft) El Teide, located at the heart of the lunar-like Parque Nacional del Teide The key thing to be aware of is that you’ll need a pre-booked permit to hike up to El Teide’s summit Though it’s possible to explore the island in a few days choosing the right place to stay in Tenerife is key The winding roads can unexpectedly tack hours onto driving times so it’s worth being based close to the can’t-miss sights and attractions on your travel list The north coast is best for getting away from it all, with accommodations mostly in small towns dotted along the Atlantic shoreline. Elegant Garachico, for example, has two delicious boutique hotels in restored Canarian mansions: Hotel San Roque and La Quinta Roja where La Laguna Gran Hotel brings a stylish touch to a centuries-old home Sunny southwest Tenerife is the preserve of top-end resorts bursting with facilities, many of which have a strong focus on sustainability. Near surfing-oriented El Médano, Casas Bioclimáticas ITER is a smart and innovative collection of carbon-free self-catering houses and villas, powered by solar and wind energy and designed by Tenerife’s Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables The Canary Islands comprise a unique and fragile natural environment and car rental is pricey because of limited availability you can rein in your carbon footprint by tapping into efficient guagua (bus) services across the island or renting an electric car boasting two Michelin stars and headed by respected chef Erlantz Gorostiza With its two international airports and excellent ferry links, Tenerife is the main gateway to the three smaller, less-touristed western Canary Islands – bohemian La Gomera, lush La Palma and rustic El Hierro slow-moving contrast to Tenerife and can be easily added on as a side trip regular ferries run to Santa Cruz de la Palma (3½ hours) El Hierro’s Puerto de la Estaca (2¾ hours) and San Sebastián de la Gomera (1 hour) It’s also possible to day-trip to La Gomera by ferry though you’ll inevitably end up wishing you could stay longer a hat and other protection from the strong rays and lots of nudist strands are dotted around the island it’s respectful to cover up a little when you head away from the sand – so no bare chests in the town center Dress modestly when visiting religious buildings It’s also impolite to visit churches for tourism during religious services One of Tenerife’s great joys is discovering the cultural wonderland beyond the Atlantic-washed coast a sprawl of pastel-walled villages clinging to lush slopes covered in banana-palm plantations Book a vineyard tour to learn all about the island’s wine-making scene which revolves around local pre-phylloxera grape varieties and the hugely varied microclimates in these rich Most tinerfeño wine is consumed directly on the island so sample freely while you’re here and show your support for local winemakers by taking home a bottle or three Close to Granadilla de Abona in southwest Tenerife, Bodega Frontos is a sustainably focused family-run operation with more than 50 years of organic wine-making experience From herb-infused cosmetics to volcanic wines, Tenerife’s most inspired souvenirs revolve around one-of-a-kind gifts that support small-scale producers, independent shops and local island artisans. Start in lively Santa Cruz, where the fabulous TEA gift shop is a great spot to pick up creative pieces such as notebooks Sprawling across 2000 sq km of Atlantic Ocean, Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site was established in 2021 off the coasts of Tenerife and its sister island La Gomera highlighting how the Canary Islands are prioritizing responsible whale-watching The islands' famous underwater residents include bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales Before you come, read up on how to be a responsible wildlife tourist, and book your whale-watching trips ahead with a low-impact tour company that has a sustainable ethos and a focus on animal welfare. Led by a switched-on team of marine biologists, Biosean runs small-group expeditions that contribute important research on the local whale populations reptiles and birds in a region already under pressure from tourism Do your part by joining beach clean-ups and by leaving the rocks where they lie The Canary Islands are famous for their wonderfully varied microclimates and nowhere channels this more spectacularly than Tenerife You can be basking in the sun on a beach on the southwest coast and then an hour later be reaching for a jacket up in the misty mountains Pack for a range of temperatures and conditions and factor in the weather when planning outdoor excursions Altitude sickness is a potential risk for anyone hiking above 2500m (8200ft) which includes El Teide; the vast majority of visitors have no problems Watch out for rip tides when swimming on Tenerife’s beaches and in its natural pools. The Atlantic can have seriously strong currents, so it’s important to heed local advice; a red flag means it’s unsafe to enter the water. For the natural sea pools, it’s best to visit at low tide because high tides and turbulent weather can make them dangerous. Most trips to Tenerife are entirely hassle-free, though like anywhere, petty theft can happen, particularly in bigger towns. Keep an eye on your belongings in tourist-heavy locations such as markets and bus stations and never leave valuables unattended on the beach. The free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitles all EU citizens to healthcare at local cost (which often means no cost) in other EU countries, including Spain. If you’re from a non-EU country, find out whether there’s any reciprocal medical care agreement with Spain; if not, ensure you have suitable health insurance or travel insurance cover. People in the Canary Islands tend to buy bottled water because much of the tap water here is desalinated sea water – it's safe to drink but not particularly pleasant taste-wise. Some hotels and restaurants provide their own large water containers so you can refill reusable bottles, and Tenerife’s airports also have drinking fountains. As of April 2022, all bars and restaurants in Spain (including the Canaries) are legally required to offer free agua de grifo (tap water) for drinking. Pokaz Trio & Yusan will put the finishing touches to the festival which Ernesto Montenegro will close at Fábrica […] The 31st edition sees out its last days with a big bang that promises strong emotions and a lot of dancing in the free sessions staged in the public square of Santa Ana (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) and at Lago Martiánez (Puerto de la Cruz) bringing to a close an event featuring over 60 concerts There have been more than 30 ensembles that have shared out their musical creativity over the eight islands at 27 venues Four weeks of concerts and re-encounter with an attending audience which for yet another year has shown its loyalty by selling out entrance tickets at almost all the paid venues and filling to capacity the open-air free ones The final phase begins on Wednesday with performances by the Rayko León Quartet at Fábrica La Isleta and Berta Moreno On Thursday double concert sessions commence in the public square of Santa Ana featuring performances by Pepe Bao Sextet bassist of O’Funkillo and one of the best instrumentalists in the country winners of many Grammy awards and an institution of Cuban ‘Son’ Two examples of this “& Más” that characterizes the last few sessions of the festival but without losing its kinship with original jazz The featured groups at these last few events of the festival will be crossing maritime & flight paths taking them from one island to another Fuensanta & Louis Cole will perform in Puerto de la Cruz together with Yusan and Avishai Cohen ‘Big Vicious’ will be in Lanzarote to perform in the public square ‘Plaza del Almacén’ The day that Puerto de la Cruz will host performances by Pepe Bao Sextet and Septeto Santiaguero Santa Ana Square meanwhile will be enjoying contemporary jazz by the Ukranians  Pokaz Trio and Philip Lassiter; who in turn will close the sessions at Lago Martiánez on Saturday; in the meantime Santa Ana Square will be bidding farewell until the coming year staging concerts by the French group Yusan and Israeli trumpeter Avishai Cohen with his project ‘Big Vicious’ There will be no rest on Sunday for the Gran Canarian audience with one last bullet left in the chamber; that of the Canarian trumpeter now based in Holland who will make his presentation in a quintet formation And that will bring the curtain down at this 31st edition that experienced exciting sessions with the artists heading the billing Marcus Miller and Gregory Porter and once again were left surprised by a countless number of artists that left the audience with a pleasant taste in its mouth ‘Big Vicious’ is a genre-bending venture by trumpeter Avishai Cohen that originated from several Lower East Side jam sessions The initial premise was to build instrumental songs based on rock riffs using a mirrored rhythm section featuring two guitars and two drummers and with Cohen leading and layering his distinctive trumpet melodies both inside and over the band The resulting music is a combination of composed motifs and jazz improvisation that works both in a small dark club and an open-air festival stage The Line-Up presented here features Avishai Cohen (trumpet Aviv Cohen (drums) & Ziv Ravitz (drums & live sampling) Born in Ferrol (A Coruña) and forged musically between cities like Seville Pepe Bao is one of the best bassists in the history of music in Spain Known as the founder of the band from Seville ‘O’funkillo’ He has formed a group with Carlos Benavent on occasions  He comes with a band consisting of himself Isidro Suárez (percussion) & Kike Perdomo (sax) multi-instrumentalist bandleader Philip Lassiter has been knee-deep in funk since his days as trumpeter and horn arranger in Prince’s New Power Generation he gravitated to the thriving Dallas music scene where he came under the wing of mentors keyboardists Bernard Wright Bobby Sparks and saxophonist Keith Anderson the trumpeter-composer-arranger mixes socio-political messaging with humorous earthy storytelling and some forays into old school funk inspired by James Brown he says “a whole lot of large ensemble neo-soul/hip-hop/jazz That’s what we do.” The Line-Up at the festival is Philip Lassiter (trumpet Niek De Bruijn (drums) & Álvaro Jiménez (trumpet) Founded in 2016 in Odessa by the pianist & academic composer Andrew Pokaz the Pokaz Trio put into motion a new wave of contemporary jazz in Ukraine classical & ethnic  music with electronic contributions was released on the Norwegian label ‘Losen Records’ in June 2019 “We felt that Ukraine needed to be heard and this was our freedom manifesto” ‘Voices’ appeared on Spotify’s best international jazz compilations Eugene Myrmyr (bass) & Alex Poliakov (drums) Founded in 1995 in Santiago de Cuba and with Fernando Dewar at the reins as its director Septeto Santiaguero is a group considered among the main exponents of Cuban traditional music affirmation endorsed by his outstanding career plus the recognitions and awards achieved throughout it From its foundation until 2010 they released another five albums that were and are a luxury for music lovers and dancers they come to the ‘Canarias Jazz & Más Festival’ presenting their new album titled ‘Y sigo pa’lante’ in a formation directed by Fernando Dewar Webster (‘tres cubano’ (chordophone) & vocals) Inocencio Heredia Castillo (minor percussion & vocals) Giraldo Bravo Ramírez (minor percussion & vocals) Alain Antonio Dragoni Cotorruelo (trumpet & chorus) Gabriel Montero González (congas) y Carlos Danger Plana (bongos) Yusan is a group created in 2016 after an unexpected artistic residency in Chamonix This is a genuine friendship story that results in a common desire to make music together An obvious alliance for these artists with very strong musical signatures but share influences as a collective legacy and a complicity that they put at the service of creation Their jazz travels from Caribbean music to African rhythms where everyone naturally finds his own place Gwen Ladeux (bass) & Mathieu Edward (drums) The young Canarian trumpeter & composer presents his ensemble to the audience as leader with a repertoire consisting of compositions by Montenegro himself; in which he seeks to make his own vision of Afro-American music known from total respect and devotion towards the same and strongly rooted in the language inherited from legends like Art Blakey And not forgetting the new trends and the tutoring that in his current stay in Amsterdam he has received from great exponents of this music For this assignment he decided to get together four musicians of three different nationalities with whom he has shared experiences & stage venues in Holland besides having recorded some of the compositions that we will hear in the show The quintet consists of Ernesto Montenegro (trumpet) Ton Felices (contrabass) & David Puime (drums) composer & arranger Rayko León continues to produce his own projects On this occasion he presents a disc performed by a jazz quartet and recorded in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria It is the spiritual continuation of ‘A Night in London’ the album recorded in London in 2018 after having performed at various local venues in the city Rayko León (piano) will be accompanied by Renato D’Angelo (tenor sax) Alberto García Navarro (drums) & Carlos Meneses (contrabass) The ‘Festival Internacional Canarias Jazz & Más’ will again have the support of the Canarian Government through the deputy minister of Culture & Heritage as main sponsor; the Island Councils of Fuerteventura Tenerife & Gran Canaria; the Gran Canaria Tourist Board; the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria & Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Halls Arrecife & Teguise Town Halls; and stage venues place of interest ‘Espacio La Granja’; the Elder Museum of Science & Technology Café Theatre Rayuela and Fábrica La Isleta.