Tenerife has long been a popular destination for beach and sun holidays. I discovered that Tenerife also has another side, literally and figuratively, during a trip in which I explored the north side of the island in particular. Here there is nature, culture and adventure in abundance! In this article I will take you to discover what the island has to offer.
El Teide National Park
Like many others on the internet, I also start with the impressive El Teide volcano. It is not without reason that a visit to the national park is number one and is the absolute highlight of Tenerife, both literally and figuratively speaking.
The National Park
The park welcomes you with vast landscapes that make you believe that you are no longer on this earth.
Along the way you will be surprised by the mountains and the forest area that surrounds the volcano like a crown. The winding roads lead you through varied landscapes, from wooded to rocky terrain, always with the volcano in sight. Here you can read the history of millions of years in the landscape, how the volcano has continually added new layers to the landscape.
You can visit the park via an organized tour or on your own with a (rental) car. Along the way you can stop at various places and learn more about the landscape. It is also possible to go to the top of the volcano, both on foot and by cable car. Make sure you reserve these tickets in time, as it is a popular activity.
Watching stars
Another popular activity is stargazing in the national park. The island's high altitude and remoteness mean there is little light pollution, making it ideal for observing the galaxy – provided the sky is clear.
Tip: If you really want to see this, my advice is to try it over several evenings. It may not be possible to admire the starry sky during your visit.
For two evenings I was ready with camera and tripod (because this is necessary) to capture it in all its glory. Unfortunately there was no chance the first evening because of the clouds. The second evening there seemed to be a small chance, a so-called 'window of opportunity', in the form of a hole in the cloud cover.
After an hour and a half of driving on winding roads, I arrived at the agreed location, but the gap had already closed...
Stargazing tours are offered, often for large groups, and include sunset viewing and dinner. While that sounds appealing, it also means more people will be present, which can lead to more light pollution. Do you want to take the time for night photography? Then it may be worthwhile to go alone or book a private tour. This way the guide can tell you more about what can be seen, using a telescope.
Recommended: José Paris, a guide from Star Excursions, offers these private tours. He not only knows the starry sky, but also Tenerife like no other!
Whale watching
This is an activity not to be missed when visiting Tenerife! The waters surrounding the island are home to the Pilot whale and they can be seen all year round. Other whale species, such as the humpback whale, fin whale, blue whale and Bryde's whale, migrate along the coast in winter.
It is almost certain that you will see the Griend during a tour. It is their natural habitat and they often show themselves on the surface as they move quietly along. Dolphins are often spotted as well. Seeing other types of whales depends on the season and although less common, it is certainly not impossible!
Whale watching tours
There are several providers for spotting these animals, mainly from the harbor in Los Gigantes. Some sail on a sailing yacht or yacht and others on a speedboat. And sometimes lunch or snacks are offered on board. The choice is yours.
We went aboard a beautiful sailing yacht Blue Dream Sailing. The crew took excellent care of us. They told us about the different types of whales and their behavior and did their utmost to prevent seasickness. Sailing back to the port, snacks and drinks were served while we enjoyed the beautiful views of the cliffs of Los Gigantes.
The Los Gigantes cliffs
The Los Gigantes is not only the name of the place, but also of the (as the name suggests) gigantic cliffs on the west side of the island. They are also called 'The Giants' and are approximately 800 meters high. Especially when the sun is low it becomes clear how enormous these cliffs are.
Visiting vineyards
Delicious wines are produced in Tenerife. The grapes are particularly good thanks to the island's location and the favorable climate. With five different districts and around a hundred winemakers on the island, there is plenty to discover for wine lovers who would like to see how wine is produced and enjoy the local products.
Bodegas Monje
I visited Bodegas Monje – el Páter, a winery that has been around since 1750 and has been owned by the Monje family for five generations. What makes this place extra special is the wine cellar that is carved into the volcanic rock, allowing the climate in the cellar to be perfectly regulated. Bodegas Monje also organizes various events, including a very unique erotic wine evening, called 'Wine and Sex'.
Anaga Nature Reserve
There is a lot to do in Anaga. From hiking and mountain biking to horse riding, kayaking, sailing, surfing, diving; this area is a paradise for adventurers! As the oldest piece of land in Tenerife, the landscape offers high rock peaks, cliffs, ravines and small bays with fine volcanic sand. As a tourist you can enjoy countless viewpoints, winding roads and well-constructed hiking trails.
If you come to the reserve by car, you can start your walk or drive to the various viewpoints. Some viewpoints that you should definitely not miss are:
- Mirador De Jardina
- Mirador del Llano de los Loros
- Mirador Cruz del Carmen (near the visitor center)
- Mirador Pico del Ingles.
Tip: If you are by car and your route is on the TF12 from Las Mercedes, consider not turning back but continuing to San Andrés. The winding roads that lead to this place are breathtakingly beautiful! In San Andrés you can relax on the pleasant sandy beach Las Teresitas Beach, which is known for its sand that comes from the Sahara. This way you immediately get the chance to let Anaga's impressions sink in.
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Botanical Garden
Tenerife's soil is particularly fertile in the north of the island. Everywhere you see colorful and exotic trees, plants and flowers. It was therefore a smart idea of Alonso de Nava y Grimón to create a botanical garden in Puerto de la Cruz in the eighteenth century. In this garden you will find a diversity of tropical and subtropical plants, not to mention an impressive fig tree that is more than 200 years old!
The entrance fee is 3 euros. How long you want to look around depends of course on your interest in the different plant species, but on average visitors spend half an hour to an hour here. There is also the option to take an audio tour.
Tips for accommodations
Luxury Hotel Botanico & Oriental Spa
If you're looking for a luxurious stay, Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa and Garden (click here) the perfect choice for you. This hotel has three restaurants, a beautiful garden and an extensive spa. Access to the spa is included in the price of your overnight stay, so you can relax and enjoy yourself!
Stylish Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja
Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja (click here) is located in the picturesque town of Garachico and is a beautifully renovated mansion from the sixteenth century. This stylish hotel offers an excellent restaurant called Silogía, which you should definitely not miss during your visit to Garachico!
Budget-friendly Route Active Hotel
Route Active Hotel (click here) may be a budget option, but it offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. With a swimming pool, fitness room, well-maintained apartments, extensive healthy breakfast buffet, this is the ideal choice if you are looking for affordable accommodation with all the necessary amenities!
Closing comments
After exploring the above activities and places, it has become clear to me that Tenerife has much more to offer than sun, sea and beach. From the vast volcanic plains to green valleys, this island is incredibly versatile. So come and be surprised by the other side, the north side, of Tenerife!
Tenerife has much more to offer than just sun, sea and beach. From the vast volcanic plains to green valleys, this island is incredibly versatile. So come and be surprised by Tenerife!
- Versatile island
- Beautiful volcano and beaches
- Lots to discover culturally
- Very affordable
