From stunning volcanic landscapes to waterparks with wow factor and archaeological curiosities, the Canary Island of Tenerife has plenty to keep you occupied. Here’s our pick of some of the island’s highlights
Mount Teide
Teide National Park is a Unesco World Heritage Site, a geological wonder that’s home to Spain’s highest mountain, the volcano of Mount Teide, which stands 3,718 metres above sea level. Its diverse landscape of petrified lava and eroded rocks rewards hikers and climbers of all levels, and you can choose to take an easier route – by cable car – to reach the summit. Visually stunning year-round due to its array of volcanic shapes and textures, it’s especially beautiful from April to June, when the park’s foliage erupts in vibrant bursts of colour.
El Médano
El Médano is widely prized for being one of the island’s best beaches, thanks to its fine volcanic grey sand and prime views of Montaña Roja volcano. That’s only half the story, though, as water sports enthusiasts regularly flock to the far end of the beach to take advantage of the ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and it is often the host of world championships. You can find secluded sandy coves to hide out in, or alternatively you can bare all at Tenerife’s most famed nudist beach. The town itself buzzes with a certain laid-back, hippyish charm, with its strip of surf shops, cafes and restaurants.
Loro Parque
Part aquarium, part zoo, all fun, Loro Parque delivers a wealth of nature to enjoy. Many visitors are drawn here to watch the dolphins and orcas – in Europe’s largest pool – perform their aquatic acrobatics, but there’s plenty more besides, such as tigers, gorillas, sea lions and the park’s huge collection of parrots, including many rare species protected in the sanctuary. The park’s latest addition is the Katandra Treetops area, where you can get an authentic Australian experience walking amid the tree canopy as you spot kookaburra, emus and cockatoos. Finally, the park is also home to the largest captive penguin population anywhere in the world.
The Pyramids of Güímar
This striking series of six simple pyramids carved from lava stone in the inland area of Güímar were first discovered by pioneering archaeologist Thor Heyerdahl in the early 1990s. While they certainly resemble Aztec temples, the structures are the subject of some controversy, with some scientists arguing that they are no older than 19th century. Either way, they’re a curious sight to behold and the adjoining museum provides a good showcase for Heyerdahl’s wider work. The botanic gardens, packed with local flora, are well worth exploring too.
Siam Park
Europe’s top water park, according to TripAdvisor visitors, does not stint on thrills. The Thai-themed park delivers adrenaline in spades. Tackle the Tower of Power if you dare, and plummet down the 28-metre slide at speeds of up to 80km per hour, slide your way through the twisty funnels of Kinnaree and then splash along the Mekong Rapids, Indiana Jones-style, on an inflatable four-person dinghy. For something more sedate, check out the Floating Market, where you can buy snacks and souvenirs from a reconstruction of a typical Thai village, while families can relax in the Wave Palace, a vast outdoor pool with artificial waves rising up to three metres high.
Winter sun
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