It doesn’t matter whether you’re joining the millions of happy holidayers who come here every year, or travelling for business, you’ll still be able to enjoy Tenerife’s year-round mild climate and rugged volcanic good looks. Sandy beaches curve against the warm ocean, mountains soar, and you’ll be spoiled for choice for places to eat, dance and party.
A UNESCO gem
It might just be a small city in Tenerife, but La Laguna has had an impact far beyond the shores of the island. Its layout has served as the inspiration for many colonial towns all across the Americas and its well-preserved beauty moved UNESCO to make it a World Heritage Site at the turn of the millennium.
Many of the pastel-hued buildings date from the 15th to 17th centuries, while you’ll find 16th century convents, an impressive cathedral (albeit one rebuilt in 1913) and, perhaps best of all, the 1502 Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion. This church has also been reworked but contains many graceful Gothic elements and some Islamic-style work on the ceilings.
Wander the squares and you’ll come across markets, boutiques, cafes and restaurants aplenty. Nub can boast a Michelin star, dishing up extravagant and innovative fusion food in a colonial building. Expect Spanish food with more than a nod to Chile and Italy, where the owners and chefs hail from.
High Teide
It’s hard to ignore El Teide. At just over 12,000ft it’s the highest point in Spain. This long-dormant volcano sits in the heart of its own national park and attracts millions of visitors a year – including plenty of locals who come here for its incredible hiking routes.
Otherworldly rock formations greet you as you ascend to the lofty peak, with numerous vantage points where you can whip out your camera and catch the perfect view.
There’s a cable car for those who can’t make it all the way on foot, and you can get tickets for a guided visit of the Teide Observatory, one of the world’s largest and most important. Stay up late enough and you’ll see for yourself why Tenerife has a reputation as a stunning spot for star-gazing.
Ride the wave
There’s a lot to see in the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It’s unapologetically Spanish and a contrast to some of the more touristy coastal resorts. Tapas bars and hotels jostle for your attention, but there are squares where you can find serenity, world-class museums and picturesque parks.
One highlight is the Auditorio de Tenerife. Completed in 2003, Santiago Calatrava’s ravishing and instantly iconic building is reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House but has a wave-like shape of its own that’s deeply suited to its location.
It’s more than just a looker – the acoustics are world-famous, so try to take in a performance here. If you can’t, you can still book ahead to get an English language tour of this modern classic.
Stark volcanic beauty mixed with golden beaches, Spanish towns full of old world charm and buzzing resorts – car hire at Tenerife South Airport opens the door to an island that offers something for every taste.