Tenerife: Between Surprise and Adventure!
A few years after visiting Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, we headed to Tenerife. When we started planning our trip, we had a bit of this clichéd image in mind: the ultra-tourist island with its crowded beaches and all-inclusive hotels. But, we were very wrong! Tenerife is much more than that. We discovered a wild island, filled with breathtaking landscapes and crazy hikes. Come on, I'll tell you everything!
Arrival and discovery of the north
We landed at the southern airport of Tenerife, the “Reina Sofía”. We took the road to Santa Cruz de Tenerife where we had booked our first three nights. This city is the ideal starting point for exploring the entire north of the island. On the way, we visited Guimar and its pyramids, then Candelaria, a city steeped in history.
First favorite: the Anaga rural park . Wow. Steep mountains, hidden trails and an almost enchanted forest. It's wild, it's green, it's magical. It felt like we were in another world. We took the time to do our first hike, just to get lost in nature but I thought it was my husband I was going to lose: 10 km, 900 meters of elevation gain, under 35 degrees in full sun. Fortunately, on our return we found a good little restaurant and above all a magnificent black sand beach, a surfers' hangout.
Then, we explored the charming town of La Orotava with its colorful houses and typical wooden balconies. A little dive into the history of the island is always good!
A stopover in La Laguna
And then, we couldn't miss La Laguna . It's a city that has this little colonial side that takes you back in time. The cobbled streets, pastel houses and historic churches are truly a favorite. We loved walking through the historic center, listed as a UNESCO heritage site, and strolling through its lively pedestrian streets. It's the perfect place to relax on a terrace, enjoy a coffee and observe local life. And bonus: it’s a super authentic city and much less touristy than Santa Cruz!
Charcos: a swim like no other
Our favorite moments in the north are our swims in the natural pools, the charcos. Notably the charco de la Laja. Sea water fills these volcanic pools, and we all had fun, diving and splashing.
Then stop at Garachico , to admire this picturesque 17th century village and above all have lunch by the natural swimming pools.
Heading for Los Gigantes
After our three nights in Santa Cruz, we took the road towards Los Gigantes for the rest of the adventure. There, we stayed for three nights to explore the south and west of the island. Los Gigantes is very touristy but a little away from Playa de Americas, where all the all inclusives are concentrated. Already, the cliffs of Los Gigantes are spectacular. Giant rock walls that plunge into the ocean, but above all, we were upgraded to a room with a magnificent terrace with jacuzzi and view of the cliffs.
The majestic Teide and the end of the world
Impossible to miss the unmissable Teide . Unfortunately we were not able to take the cable car up to the base of the crater, due to the wind. But we were able to do many hikes around and the landscapes were sumptuous..
On the way to Punta del Teno , we had to take the famous winding Masca road . Honestly, it was a little stressful at first. A narrow road, with hairpin bends and dizzying views of the gorges... A real challenge! But what a reward once you arrive: Punta del Teno is a timeless place with an old lighthouse and incredible views of the ocean. We really felt like we were at the end of the world, far from everything. Each time, we were amazed at how varied Tenerife can be.
Explore the south and southeast
Finally, we took the time to discover the south and southeast of the island. Sunnier beaches, like Tejita or the Arch of Arico. It really is the other side of Tenerife, far from the tourist hustle and bustle that we feared so much.
Summary of this family trip
Tenerife was a wonderful trip. We left with some apprehensions, but we came back with a head full of memories, between hiking, incredible landscapes and unique swimming. If you are still hesitant about visiting this island, go for it. Far from the clichés, Tenerife has something to surprise you!
So, are you ready to embark on a Canarian adventure? 😊
