Tenerife, between volcanoes, ocean and colorful villages
Tenerife captivates with its diverse landscapes, from beaches and volcanic peaks to traditional villages. In the heart of the island, Teide National Park is home to Spain's highest mountain and offers breathtaking panoramic views. To the north, the streets of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lie alongside the verdant landscapes of Anaga. In the west, the village of Masca clings to the mountains of the Teno massif. Tenerife also offers seaside resorts, black sand beaches, and a variety of water sports. It's a destination to be explored as much for its scenery as for its culture and cuisine.
The must-haves
Experiences not to be missed
- Climb up to Mount Teide, in the heart of the national park
- Explore Anaga Rural Park and its mountainous landscapes
- Discover the historic streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna
- Make a stop in Masca, in the Teno massif
- Take a stroll through the historic center of La Orotava
- Enjoy the island's beaches and natural pools
- Observe the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife
- Discover Puerto de la Cruz and its seafront
- Explore the villages in the north of the island
- Admire the cliffs of Los Gigantes
When Tenerife throws a party
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the island's major celebrations, with its costumes, shows, parades and street entertainment.
Other traditional events include:
- Corpus Christi of La Orotava, with its famous carpets made with flowers and volcanic sands from Teide
- Festivals of the Virgen del Carmen, especially in Puerto de la Cruz
- Romerías, popular festivals combining music, traditional costumes and local specialties
- The Feast of San Andrés, on November 29th in Puerto de la Cruz, is known for the tradition of "cacharros" (a type of small, round cake) and the tasting of chestnuts.
- MUECA Festival in Puerto de la Cruz, dedicated to street arts
- The numerous patron saint festivals organized in the villages of the island throughout the year
Flavors between land and sea
Tenerife's cuisine showcases the island's bounty. You can't miss papas arrugadas (rugulated potatoes), served with red or green mojo sauce, or gofio, a roasted grain flour found in many traditional recipes. Fresh fish also plays a significant role in local cuisine, as do cheeses, tropical fruits, and produce from the island's own farms. As for drinks, Tenerife boasts several wine appellations of origin and produces, among other things, white and red wines, as well as Malvasia.
An island where culture is lived every day
Tenerife's culture can be explored in its historic centers, museums, popular festivals, and local traditions. La Laguna is a must-see for its architectural heritage and its UNESCO-listed historic center. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the Casa del Carnaval (Carnival House) offers a glimpse into the history of this iconic festival through costumes and artifacts. In the villages, pilgrimages, religious festivals, and agricultural traditions bear witness to a still-vibrant island identity. Tenerife's cultural calendar also offers concerts, exhibitions, theater performances, festivals, and events throughout the year.
