“The daddy of the Canaries might have a beach-to-bar reputation, but dig a bit deeper and you’ll find national parks, sights galore and its most bankable asset – top weather.”
Out of all the Canary Islands, the biggest – Tenerife – arguably has the most going on. Travel to the island’s top half and you’ll find no end of greenery to get lost in – banana plantations, pine forests, you name it. Head south, meanwhile, and you’re in holiday central, with everything you could possibly want at your fingertips.
Take Playa de las Americas. The top attraction in this purpose-built resort is the white-sand beach, but its waterpark, 18-hole golf course and string of restaurants are the other plus points people tend to reel off. As for its buzzing strip of bars and clubs, it’s turned the place into a bit of a party Mecca. Next-door Los Cristianos, meanwhile, is home to two beaches, some sleek shopping malls and plenty of al fresco eateries. It’s the quieter of the two, but there’s plenty going on, including a busy Sunday market.
For proper peace and quiet, try Playa de la Arena on the south-west coast. It’s got a more traditional feel, spotless sands and some of the best tapas bars around. Equally mellow is compact Playa Paraiso, home to a really popular lido. And for a happy medium, go for Costa Adeje. A modern resort with Mount Teide as its backdrop, it’s got a clutch of chic shops and eateries to its name.
