tenerife - spain

An island which has become very popular,with a relatively short flight, year round sunshine and accommodation to suit all pockets and tastes.....great even for a quick break to erase those winter blues. 

A mix of inland heritage and beauty works alongside the bustle of those coastal beaches, with its range of water sports and surfing. The north is less developed, has greater rainfall and retains more of the natural beauty in its landscape and wineries.

The busy south coast has a range of hotels, shops, restaurants and entertainment,  boredom and loneliness need ever be a problem. For those who appreciate some tranquility and a slower pace, the Costa Adeje area will appeal as will La Caleta an old characterful fishing village .

Taster Tours

Travel on foot along the coast from Los Cristianos to Costa Adeje( not in one day) to experience the variety on offer...surfing, hang gliding and of course people watching. Plenty of places to eat, drink and just gaze. Local transport is cheap, clean and efficient , with very helpful drivers, who will take you along the coast or better still let you explore and travel easily within the day, to most of the island. Car hire is plentiful and also an option, as are the numerous organised tours. Nothing quite like having your own adventure though, mixing with fellow travellers and locals and just absorbing the passing scenery. La Caleta based on the quiet side of the coastline, can be reached by the 467 bus. An old fishing village which curves around the coastal inlet, with its pastel painted cottages, local fishermen, small bars and fish restaurants. All of  which hug the sea walls, to serve you freshly caught produce and tapas. Meander back towards Costa Adeje and the frantic activity of the Coqueluche Beach Bar which hosts the numerous colourful landings of the hang gliders and their various clients thirsting for adventure....tempted?

Los Gigantes in the south west, with its dramatic cliff side setting, is much quieter and accessed by the 473 or 477 bus, which drives through the various banana plantations. Sip a coffee at the friendly Los Gigantes hotel on the rocky sea front,  before taking a negotiated 30 min taxi ride with Mascaexpress.com from opposite the entrance, along the very narrow winding road with its dramatic landscapes to the beautiful Masca. Self drive is possible but really not recommended. Walk down through the beautiful old village, in good shoes, to seep up the atmosphere and enjoy the stunning vistas. A selection of view points,  quaint small cafes and path side vendors selling  juicy local fruits to taste...mango, cactus fruits are but a few. Take the waiting taxi back down to the hotel through those incredible views , which includes the snow capped Mount Teide. Explore the small village and cafes of Los Gigantes and take all that serenity on the bus back to the bustle of the coast.

Take the express bus 110 or the 111 to Santa Cruz,  a larger busy place to explore, or connect from the same bus station to:

1.La Oratava a beautiful old town set in the hills, overlooking Puerto de la Cruz. The drive on the 108 bus takes you through lush scenery and tiered plantations, a rich contrast to the scenery of the south. Travel on to Icod De Los Vinos and Garachico or hop off to explore the meandering streets of the town with its traditional Canarian merchant houses, gardens and balconies. Most are available to visit and provide a full picture of the grandeur and craftsmanship of days gone by.  Leafy squares to sit and ponder whilst you sip your coffee, churches to visit, local crafts to admire, all at a leisurely place. Travel onwards or return to Santa Cruz.

2.La Laguna is accessed from the bus station at Santa de la Cruz by the 102 bus or the tram, which provides great views . A characterful small city with many points of interest.......the historical area Contains winding streets, handsome facades, good restaurants, churches, Salazar Palace and the Market Hall. The small shops sell fresh local produce, a feast of smells and tastes to tempt a wandering tourist. The tourist office provides a mine of information for further exploration. La Gomera a peaceful, lush, non commercialised island is 1.5 hour away by high speed ferry from Los Cristianos .Just meander and visit the small port or better still take an organised day trip to get full benefit of what the beautiful island has to offer.

Time to Linger

So many cafes, bars and perching posts to watch the sun rise, the sun set, the waves crashing, the tumbling surf boards and of course people watching. Just set back from the front, an array of well known retail outlets to tempt if so inclined,  as well as a vast array of international restaurants and bars.....cocktails in Harry’s bar for anyone? La Caleta restaurants of course offer some characterful venues in quieter surroundings, so which to choose ? Just think a different style of venue for each mood and day! The days can be filled with lying on the beach/ by the poolside reading that book, or take that opportunity to try the various water sports on offer or maybe a boat trip to do some coastal cruising or whale spotting.