Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Spain / Canary Islands - Canaries / Tenerife
 |  | Destination Guide : Tenerife |
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| | | Sunshine all year round |  | Why go on holiday to Tenerife?
If you're after fun in the sun, head for volcanic Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, which is blessed with an all-year-round warm climate.
How much does it cost?
At the time of writing, a seven-night package with half-board or apartment accommodation and flights is from £220. Flights from £80, small basic hotels from around £20. Car hire from around £10 a day.
When should I go?
March to May (except Easter) and November are best for value, December to February is busiest and most expensive. There is an influx of Spanish tourists during summer months.
Tenerife has a good year-round climate ranging from 18C (64F) in winter to 24C (75F) in summer (though it can go up to 30C/ 86F in August).
The volcano Mount Teide can create a lot of cloud and rain around the north coast resorts, especially in winter, while it's sizzling in the south of the island. February has carnival - a huge fiesta in Santa Cruz lasting three weeks.
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| | | Volcanic landscape |  | What should I do when I'm there?
Tenerife boasts Spain's highest mountain, the volcanic Pico del Teide, which rises above 12,000ft. It forms the high point of Las Canadas national park in the centre of the island, with its striking moon-like landscape.
Hikers can trek up to the summit of Mt Teide, but the eight-minute ride on a cable car is more fun. Rent a car so you can stop off and enjoy the great views.
Where's the best beach?
Take your pick. Busy favourites include the golden sandy beaches at the resorts of Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos and the volcanic black beaches of Puerto de la Cruz.
Have no fear, you'll never be far away from a bar or restaurant for a refreshment break.
Where can I lose the crowds?
The west coast of Tenerife features dramatic rock cliffs, in particular the aptly-named Acantilados de los Gigantes (Cliffs of the Giants) where sheer rock walls plunge into the Atlantic Ocean far below.
For a close look at their splendour, take a boat tour. With luck, you'll also see some dolphins. Los Gigantes is a small and pretty though touristy town that's a lot quieter than the big resorts.
What else can I see?
Check out the lively former island capital of La Laguna, where fine-balconied houses with brightly-coloured facades and sturdy wooden doors line charming narrow streets.
La Orotava, just inland from Puerto de la Cruz, is similarly charming with some lovely 16th-century buildings and a good craft centre for interesting souvenirs - though if renting a car it's a bit of a maze to drive around - beware!
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| | | Dance the night away | | Where's good for nightlife?
Playa de las Americas is hopping at night with bars, discos, restaurants and flamenco displays and it's not for those of faint heart. Los Cristianos and Puerto de la Cruz are a little more sedate.
La Laguna's current incarnation as a Canaries University town means there is no shortage of nightlife, and is perfect for a bit of bar-hopping.
What's the food like?
There are plenty of cheap eats if you want the chips-with-everything type menu or the ubiquitous pizza, but for a few pounds more you can get excellent fish dishes.
Canarians dine late - 9pm at the earliest. Their cuisine has many influences including Spanish, Latin American and Muslim. Many dishes will be served in a mojo sauce which is spicy and made with red chilli peppers.
What should I buy?
Take advantage of Tenerife's status as a tax haven, which makes electronic goods a particular bargain along with perfume, tobacco and alcohol.
Local crafts include leather, linen tablecloths and jewellery. Santa Cruz is the place to shop, with more than just tourist stores.
What is there for children to do?
Kids will marvel at the lunar landscapes of Las Canadas national park. Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz has a dolphinarium and other sea life as well as such creatures as crocodiles and flamingoes.
Visit a banana plantation and find out how they are grown at Bananera El Guanche near Puerto.
Tourist office
Spanish National Tourist Office, 22-23 Manchester Square, London, W1M 5AP. Tel. 020 7486 8077. Brochure line: 09063 640630 (60p per minute).
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| | Available rental properties in Tenerife |
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