Palladium Guides - Destination Tenerife (English)

Tenerife

Palladium Tenerife

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guides Palladium guides

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Santa Cruz de Tenerife

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La Laguna

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T he North: from Puerto de la Cruz to Punta de Teno

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T eide National Park

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Adeje

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P laya de las Américas to El Médano

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Palladium guides

Tenerife

In Tenerife, you can live all year round in short sleeves, wind rippling your hair, traces of salt on your sun-kissed skin, sandals always on (though ready to be replaced by hiking boots). Because Tenerife, in the south, is heavenly, a beach destination with crystal-clear waters, and whitish sand. But in the north it is also untamed: rugged, with overwhelming nature, and only discoverable on foot, along winding paths that enter forests of green that contrast with the volcanic black of the rocks. Yes, Tenerife is also volcanic, and imposing Mount Teide, the first thing you look for here, is proof of that.

Tenerife 3

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Tenerife

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1. I solated, wild and lonely, Benijo is one of the most spectacular beaches in Tenerife.

at a glance

2. Guachinches are Canarian taverns where you can try authentic local cuisine.

3. You can easily observe colonies of dolphins and whales that inhabit the coast in the south of Tenerife.

4. The Punta de Teno lighthouse is located at the westernmost point of the island, and from there you can watch one of the best sunsets in Tenerife.

In Tenerife it’s spring all year round: the average annual temperature is around 23ºC. At 3,718 meters (12,198 feet), the Teide volcano is the highest mountain in Spain.

The coastal perimeter of this island measures almost

400 kilometers

(250 miles), with steep cliffs in the north alternating with golden sandy beaches in the south.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is

the only Canarian city that has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site.

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DID YOU KNOW…?

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The dresses of the candidates for the Carnival Queen of Santa Cruz can weigh 400–500 kilos (880–1,100 pounds), taking into account all the materials used to make them.

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Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife the capital of paradise C

ompared to the relaxed lifestyle on the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is sensory overload.

In its port, the constant coming and going of ships leaves a trail of visitors; the Atlantic arrives tirelessly at its shores, lapping at the paradisiacal beaches and adding charm to the skyline of the Canarian capital. In the center, history comes alive in buildings, some so old they can lay claim to being among the first constructed on the island. Art is enjoyed in institutions that have embraced experimentation, and cuisine takes center stage, offering delicious feasts in traditional taverns and sophisticated tastings in avant-garde restaurants.

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Tenerife Santa Cruz de Tenerife

See & Do

PLAZA DE ESPAÑA Located next to the pier, this square is the place everyone passes through when visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Under its asphalt lies the Castillo de San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, surrounded by buildings such as the headquarters of the Cabildo local government. You’ll also find the city’s name spelled out in big letters, and when the heat hits, the inviting pond is the place to cool your feet. The tourist office is here too.

NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA CONCEPCIÓN CHURCH This temple is a glorious mix of architectural styles, with traces of a Tuscan structure and elements of Canarian colonial aesthetics.

It is also home to an artistic heritage that includes pieces such as the Holy Cross used during the Castilian Conquest, the Gothic image of the Our Lady of Consolation, and the Chapel of the Letters, with an altarpiece that represents one of the most important examples of baroque on the island.

Plaza de la Iglesia, 2. 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

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TENERIFE ESPACIO DE LAS ARTES (TEA) This building, a mass of concrete dotted with small windows, houses a permanent collection of the work of Tenerife artist Óscar Domínguez, the third great Spanish exponent of surrealist painting. Exhibitions by names such as Tàpies, Picasso, Patti Smith, and Dalí have all passed through its halls. It also organizes screenings, workshops, guided tours, and activities for all ages.

Avenida de San Sebastián, 10.

38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 84 90 90 AUDITORIO DE TENERIFE ADÁN MARTÍN It’s worth seeing this building

by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava up close and, while you’re

here, also catching one of the shows it hosts inside. Sign up for a guided tour to learn about what’s going on behind the scenes.

Avenida de la Constitución, 1.

38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 568 600 CÉSAR MANRIQUE MARITIME PARK The posthumous work of the Lanzarote artist, this complex features three pools with crystalclear salt water, two of which have islands. The sound of the waterfalls mixes with that of the ocean, and the views of the Auditorium and the Palmetum are unmissable. You can buy tickets through the website.

Avenida de la Constitución, 5.

38005 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 22 93 68 parquemaritimosantacruz.es

PALMETUM You’ll find the largest collection of tropical island palm trees in the world, and the best in Europe, in this botanical garden. Its 12 hectares (30 acres) are home to more than 600 species of this family.

Avenida de la Constitución, 5. 38005 Santa Cruz de Tenerife. 922 22 93 68 PLAYA DE LAS TERESITAS Located in the town of San Andrés, nine kilometers (six miles) from the center of Santa Cruz, Las Teresitas is one of the most famous beaches in Tenerife. The reason? Perhaps it’s due to the long shore of toasted sand, the picturesque palm trees that dot it, the turquoise of its waters, or how calm they are, thanks to a breakwater that soothes the force of the Atlantic.

Avenida Marítima de San Andrés.

38120 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

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Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Eat & Drink

NUESTRA SEÑORA DE ÁFRICA MARKET Known as La Recova, this is the city’s municipal market, and its stands are a feast for the senses. Flower stalls, delicatessens, bakeries, fishmongers, greengrocers... At some you can even ask to have the products you have just bought prepared on the spot, so you can enjoy them there and then.

Avenida de San Sebastián, 51.

38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 21 47 43 PALMELITA This coffee shop is ideal if you want to sit on a terrace and people watch – a pastime best enjoyed accompanied by a portion of one of its delicious cakes or any of the sweets it has been making since 1968. There are also specials that you can enjoy at any time of the day.

Calle del Castillo, 9.

38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 88 89 04 TASCA LA RECOVA Traditional Canarian food served in hearty portions at very competitive

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prices. We suggest you don’t leave without trying the almogrote, the goat meat, the fried anchovies and, to top it off, a barraquito – a popular Canarian coffee drink.

Plaza Isla de la Madera, 13.

38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

610 44 41 35 EL AGUARDE RESTAURANTE You go to this restaurant to try its famous Spanish omelet, but you end up staying for a menu where innovative recipes rub shoulders with more traditional dishes. It all has one thing in common though: the use of market produce. Leave room for dessert: you won’t want to leave without trying the chocolate soup with coconut ice cream.

Calle Costa y Grijalba, 21.

38004 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 28 91 42 Palladium guides

Tenerife Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Shop

LIBRERÍA DE MUJERES The majority of the titles in this independent bookstore are written by women. You’ll find feminist essays, narratives, short stories... and a special place is reserved on its shelves for authors whom history has forgotten.

Calle Sabino Berthelot, 42.

38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 27 03 62

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CONFÍA, COÑO The first bricks-and-mortar store of Canarian brand Confía, coño features the t-shirts, sweatshirts, and accessories it has been selling online for four years. It uses eco-friendly and recycled fabrics, sustainable packaging, and biodegradable and compostable labels.

Calle Pérez Galdós, 12.

38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 24 92 74

QUESO PROJECT Founded in Lanzarote, this store likes to sell cheeses with a story. It has a preference for those handmade by smallscale producers and enjoys introducing them to the wider public. The selection not only includes Canarian cheeses, but also those from the rest of Spain and abroad.

Calle Teobaldo Power, 19.

38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

636 71 43 48 Palladium guides

Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife 11 12

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1. Plaza de España 2. Nuestra Señora de la Concepción Church 3. Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA) 4. Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín 5. César Manrique Maritime Park 6. Palmetum 7. Playa de las Teresitas

8. Nuestra Señora de África market 9. Palmelita 10. Tasca La Recova 11. El Aguarde Restaurante 4

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12. Librería de Mujeres 13. Confía, coño 14. Queso Project

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Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Spotlight

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hen Celia Cruz sang that “life is a carnival”, she was no doubt referring to the celebrations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. For two weeks in February, life revolves around these festivities, which were named a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest in 1980. The eyes of locals and visitors alike converge on the selection of the Carnival Queen, while the lyrics of the murgas, comparsas and other musical groups capture the attention. And, of course, there is no shortage of grand parades filling the city’s streets with rhythm, flair, and revelry.

Carnival

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La Laguna gateway to Anaga Tenerife

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an Cristóbal de La Laguna has a special allure that comes from blending the charm of being one of the oldest towns in the Canary Islands with the vitality, enthusiasm, and excitement of its status as a university city. Located in the northeast of Tenerife, it began taking shape in the 15th century, without walls but with a linear layout that remains virtually unchanged.

La Laguna may not have a beach, but it doesn’t need one, as it can lay claim to being the gateway to the natural gem that is the Anaga Rural Park.

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Tenerife

La Laguna

See & Do

TOUR THE HISTORIC CENTER WITH A GUIDE The old town is small and manageable, but full of charm and historic buildings that are best discovered with an expert who can reveal its secrets.

The tourist information office organizes free guided tours in Spanish, English, French, and German. You can find the schedules on its website.

Casa Alvarado Bracamonte Tourist Information Office (Casa de Los Capitanes Generales): Calle Carrera or Calle Obispo Rey Redondo, 7.

922 63 11 94. turismo.aytolalaguna.es MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITION HALLS Some refer to La Laguna as the cultural capital of the Canary Islands and it’s easy to see why when you consider the number of galleries and museums it offers. Discover the mysteries of the universe at the Museum of Science and the Cosmos, immerse yourself in the island’s

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past in the Museum of the History of Tenerife, or soak up cutting-edge exhibitions in the city’s various halls.

CATHEDRAL OF SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LA LAGUNA The origins of this cathedral lie in the 16th century, when it was built as the church of Los Remedios. In 1819, it became the Cathedral seat, but only the façade remains from that time. The rest dates from the early years of the 20th century, when it was rebuilt with tall ribbed vaults, the ambulatory, and the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios chapel, which features an impressive altarpiece.

Plaza de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, s/n.

681 197 236.

ANAGA RURAL PARK This park is home to imposing rocks, deep ravines, and laurel forests. Some of its trails lead to surprises in the form of stunning views over the domains of this Biosphere Reserve, whose mountains stretch all the way to the sea.

Centro de visitantes Cruz del Carmen, carretera Las Mercedes, km 6.

922 633 576.

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La Laguna

Eat & Drink BODEGÓN TOCUYO A traditional winery, with wooden benches, and vats both stacked on the walls and serving as tables. The wine is poured direct from the barrel, and you can even add your signature to the walls as proof you were here.

Be sure to try the almogrote, a kind of Canarian cheese spread.

Calle Juan de Vera, 16.

922 25 00 45.

PAN DE LATA This place defines itself as a “bar full of cans, preserves, good atmosphere and music.” Among the appetizers there’s no shortage of preserves, which are served in their own can and pair perfectly with a glass of vermouth.

Calle San Agustín, 58.

922 49 67 20.

LA TRONJA La Tronja serves tapas and homemade Canarian dishes. Locals revere the meatballs and croquettes and it’s worth leaving room for the carne fiesta and fried rabbit.

Calle San Agustín, 77.

922 69 67 65

LA TASCA DE CRISTIAN This restaurant offers warm and attentive service, a menu that respects high-quality Spanish ingredients, and dishes in which you can appreciate the experience of the hands working the stoves. The menu features a good variety of fish and meat.

Calle Marqués de Celada, 17.

922 25 65 88

EL BEJEQUE This restaurant focuses on local and seasonal ingredients, but the way they are prepared transports your taste buds to faraway lands with Asian and Latin American flavors in the form of nigiris, tiraditos, kebabs, baos and dumplings.

Calle Viana, 61.

922 52 37 95

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Tenerife

La Laguna

Shop GOFIO LA MOLINETA Gofio is a typical ingredient in Canarian cuisine, a kind of flour made from different cereals and vegetables. The grains are first roasted and ground. At La Molineta, they have been doing this by hand in their mill for more than 150 years. The store offers various varieties of gofio, including versions made from wheat, millet, a combination of both, and a blend of three cereals for children...

Calle Núñez de la Peña, 61. 922 25 71 55 PISAVERDE This store features shoes and accessories that are fun, creative, and made with love and care for the customer and for the environment. Its limited-edition collections are produced by hand using recycled or noble materials, such as banana fiber extracted from logs.

Calle Juan de Vera, 7.

922 31 41 28

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La Laguna 2

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1. Historic center 2. Museums and exhibition halls 3. Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna 4. Anaga Rural Park

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5. Bodegón Tocuyo 6. Pan de Lata 7. La Tasca de Cristian 8. La Tronja 9. El Bejeque

10. Gofio La Molineta 11. Pisaverde 4

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La Laguna

Spotlight

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his beach is part of the natural wonder that is the Anaga Rural Park. To find it, just follow the TF-134 road, weaving round its sharp curves, climbing its steep slopes, and enjoying the landscape until the El Mirador restaurant appears. From there, you can survey the more than 400 steps that separate you from the black volcanic sand stretching out from the foot of the cliffs. The blue of the Atlantic Sea completes the enchanting scene. But don’t let the beautiful view cloud your good judgment: Benijo disappears at high tide, so you should only visit when the tide is low and the sea is calm.

Benijo Beach 16

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Elfrom Norte Puerto de la Cruz to Punta de Teno Tenerife

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ou could define the coastal landscape of northern Tenerife as something of an oddity. Despite being an island, it offers more views of mountains and slopes than beaches.

Travel along the TF-5 road, the main route through the area, and you’ll be hypnotized by the greenery of its nature, fall in love with the views of the villages that dot the landscape, and succumb to the contrast of colors created by the blue Atlantic, which roars parallel to the road.

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Tenerife

El Norte

See & Do

is undoubtedly the Casa de los Balcones.

PUERTO DE LA CRUZ Puerto de la Cruz is the kind of town where large tourist buildings live in harmony with colorful houses in its historic center. Here, life revolves around the central Plaza del Charco, and you can stroll the streets safe in the knowledge that they lead to places such as the attractive swimming pools at Lago Martiánez; the Botanical Garden, where you can admire trees of impossible dimensions; and San Felipe castle, next to Playa Jardín, which features a cultural space inside and one of the best sunsets in the area outside.

ICOD DE LOS VINOS In Icod de los Vinos you’ll find one of the symbols of Tenerife: the Drago Milenario (Thousand-YearOld Dragon Tree). Looking at it up close is impressive: 18 meters (59 feet) high, with a 20-meter (66-foot) perimeter, and more than 300 main branches, it is an imposing plant species. Its age is also remarkable: eight centuries, making it the oldest tree of its kind in the world. Declared a National Monument in 1917, it is best appreciated by following the trails through Parque del Drago.

Parque del Drago, Plaza de la Constitución, 1.

922 81 45 10

Most Beautiful Villages in Spain.

Piscinas Naturales de El Caletón, Avenida Tomé Cano, s/n.

922 83 00 00

LA OROTAVA La Orotava gives its name to the valley in which it is located, a lush green tapestry dotted with houses that stretches to the Atlantic. This town has everything you could ask for in a destination: a dreamlike natural environment; charming (if steep) cobblestone streets; and a historic center inherited from a past era of prosperity in which you’ll find no shortage of churches, superb gardens, and stately mansions with their characteristic exposed wooden structures. The most famous of these

GARACHICO AND ITS POOLS You come to Garachico for the natural pools of El Caletón, delightful pools crossed by trails of volcanic rock that emerged after the eruption of Teide in 1706. In front of them, in the sea, stands a magnificent rock; behind them, the village. What was once one of the most important ports of the 15th century is today a charming town with colorful houses that was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1994, and is also a member of the Association of the

TENO RURAL PARK Teno Rural Park covers more than 8,000 hectares (20,000 acres), including the municipalities of Buenavista del Norte, Los Silos, El Tanque, and Santiago del Teide.

It also features lunar landscapes, laurel forests, deep, indisputably beautiful ravines such as the one in Masca, small beaches, large valleys, and even a lighthouse: Punta de Teno. Located at the westernmost point of the island, it has red and white stripes and offers stunning views of the Los Gigantes cliffs.

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El Norte

Eat & Drink

BODEGÓN PUERTO CRUZ The comprehensive menu includes all those Canarian dishes you’ll want to try before leaving Tenerife: papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes), roasted cheese with mojo sauce, rabbit with salmorejo sauce, goat meat, carne fiesta... Everything is homemade, served in a traditional atmosphere, with attentive service, and in a central location.

Calle del Dr. Ingram, 7A, 38400, Puerto de la Cruz.

922 09 29 40 LA GRIFERÍA COCKTAILS & GASTRO With an eclectic menu that mixes urban-style dishes, local cuisine, and a wide variety of rice dishes, La Grifería wins over everyone who visits. The cocktails created by award-winning Beatriz Pitti likely also have a lot to do with this – check out her original recipes. The most homegrown? Without a doubt, the Merienda Canaria, made from aged rum, banana liqueur, cookie syrup, orange juice, and gofio flour.

Calle Agustín de Bethencourt, 3, Puerto de la Cruz.

636 80 31 83

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HABATONKA FACTORÍA DULCE This is the place to have breakfast.

Habatonka’s menu, which features varied toasts, bowls, sandwiches, and handmade pastries, is an ode to the first meal of the day. You have to try the delicious smoked cheesecake – if possible, in its charming interior patio.

Calle Tomás Zerolo, 22, La Orotava.

922 32 41 54 RESTAURANTE LA ALMENA DE SAN MIGUEL This restaurant in Garachico offers homegrown and very tasty food, served in generous portions at affordable prices. And, above all, the service is second-to-none. The grilled fish is a must and the sea views are a bonus.

Avenida República de Venezuela, 3, Garachico. 922 13 33 03 Palladium guides

Tenerife

El Norte

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1. Puerto de la Cruz 2. La Orotava 3. Icod de los Vinos 4. Garachico and its pools 5. Teno Rural Park

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3 6. Bodegón Puerto Cruz 7. La Grifería Cocktails & Gastro 8. Habatonka Factoría Dulce 9. Restaurante La Almena de San Miguel

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El Norte

Spotlight

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tep into a guachinche and you enter a Canarian tavern brimming with homemade and traditional stews, hearty dishes, and local and seasonal ingredients. All washed down with local wine. Their origins lie with farmers who would offer their wines accompanied by a tapa prepared by their wives. They are scattered throughout the mountains in the north of the island, and the more hidden they are, the better. It pays to be wary of signs on the road and let the locals guide you

Guachinches 21

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Tenerife

Teide National Park

climbing to the roof of Spain E

l Teide is the welcome sign for all visitors to Tenerife, the silhouette that accompanies you throughout your stay on the island.

Occupying its center, its 3,718 meters (12,198 feet) of altitude allow you to see it from the plane on arrival, above a sea of clouds. And if you find that view seductive, just imagine admiring it as you approach the base of this volcano, driving along the roads that cross the National Park in which it is the undisputed star.

Teide National Park encompasses almost 19,000 hectares (47,000 acres) of craters, volcanic cones, petrified lava flows, rocks and fauna and flora that, together with the geological processes that you can observe while admiring its terrain, earned it a Unesco World Heritage Site designation in 2007.

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Tenerife Teide National Park

See & Do

SCALE THE SUMMIT You can reach the top of Mount Teide on foot from its base, following the path that starts in Montaña Blanca and takes about six hours to climb. Keep in mind that you will need a permit issued by the National Park to travel the last section, the Telesforo Bravo Trail that connects La Rambleta to the summit. This is free, but it is advisable to get one in advance.

Remember to wear warm clothes, footwear suitable for stony terrain, and sunscreen, and to carry water and food to keep your strength up. Check the weather conditions before starting your ascent.

Montaña Blanca: carretera TF-21 (about 3km (2 miles) from the Teide Cable Car) reservasparquesnacionales.es RIDE THE CABLE CAR Taking eight minutes, the Teide cable car saves you the 3,555-meter (3,888-yard) journey from the base station to the upper stop (La Rambleta). Once there you can experience what El Teide has to offer, walking among volcanic rocks and seeing the sea of flows and

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craters stretching into the distance.

Booking tickets in advance is recommended.

Teleférico del Teide: carretera TF-21, Km. 40.2. Teide National Park Cable car tickets: volcanoteide.com VISIT THE OBSERVATORY At the Tenerife Observatory, they have been studying the heavens since the early 1960s. The latitude, altitude, and the quality of the sky here have made its main field of specialization the sun. However, all this is best explained on one of its guided tours, where you’ll also find out about what astrophysics is, see solar flares, and step inside a night telescope.

Guided tour tickets: volcanoteide.com ASTROTOURISM The Teide National Park was designated a Starlight Destination in 2013, certifying it as an optimal place for stargazing. This is one of the activities organized in the cable car base station car park. At 2,536 meters (8,320 feet), with a specialized guide and equipped with professional telescopes, you can admire the constellations and, during summer, the Milky Way. Teleférico del Teide, carretera TF-21, Km. 40.2. Teide National Park Reservations: volcanoteide.com VIEWPOINTS TOUR The Teide National Park changes depending on where you view it

from. For this reason, the more than 47 kilometers (29 miles) of roads that run through it are dotted with around 20 viewpoints. One of the most acclaimed is undoubtedly La Ruleta. Stopping here means viewing a variety of landscapes, including the Roques de García, El Teide, the Ucanca plain, and the western wall of La Caldera.

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Tenerife Teide National Park

Eat & Drink RESTAURANTE PARADOR DE LAS CAÑADAS DEL TEIDE The typical Canarian cuisine prepared at this restaurant becomes even more spectacular when you consider you’ll be enjoying it while admiring Teide and the surrounding lunar landscape.

The menu features delicacies such as Canarian stew, local fish, rabbit in salmorejo sauce, roasted cheese, and goat stew.

Las Cañadas del Teide, 38300, La Orotava.

922 38 64 15

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RESTAURANTE PAPILLON The ideal place to stop after an excursion to Teide. The menu includes sandwiches, typical local dishes, as well as options designed to satisfy the palates of foreign tourists.

Children will enjoy the terrace, where it is common to see the lizards that venture here close up.

Calle Portillo, 31, 38300 Las Cañadas del Teide, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

922 69 40 45 RESTAURANTE BAMBY Meat, stews and fish. Enjoy homemade and Canarian dishes accompanied by spectacular views of the Teide. You can choose from a regular fixed menu or a list of daily specials, both of which are comprehensive and competitively price. Be sure to round off your meal with a barraquito: condensed milk, liqueur, coffee and foam.

Carretera General de las Cañadas, Km. 32.5, 38300 La Orotava.

922 35 60 14

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Tenerife

Teide National Park 3 7 8

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1. Scale the summit 2. Ride the cable car 3. Visit the Observatory 4. Astrotourism 5. Viewpoints tour

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6. Restaurante Parador de las Cañadas del Teide 7. Restaurante Papillon 8. Restaurante Bamby

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Teide National Park

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rom the moment spring begins to bloom to the last days of summer, the soundtrack of the Teide National Park is provided by the buzz of bees. Around May, some beekeepers begin the process of moving hundreds of hives from the coast to designated areas of the park. The result are varieties of honey whose uniqueness comes from the location in which they are produced: more than 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, in very low humidity, in a national park with hardly any pollution, and from a species endemic to the area.

Honey from Cañadas del Teide 26

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Tenerife

Adeje your base camp in the west of the island T

his part of Tenerife has it all. The rural charm of yesteryear is preserved in the streets of many of its villages; the richness of the rugged and lush nature of the north that gives way to a more arid and dry landscape as it approaches the south; and tourist attractions that center on a variety of beaches that enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year and temperatures that rarely fall below 19ºC.

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Tenerife

Adeje

See & Do

ADEJE It’s worth getting lost in the narrow streets of this town to understand how its history spans centuries, as buildings such as the Santa Úrsula Church and the Casa Fuerte, both from the 16th century, demonstrate. You’re also likely to notice the street art that covers the walls of some buildings – the work of artist Conrado Díaz, who wanted to pay homage to its former inhabitants. The 27-meter (89-foot) bell tower that presides over the Plaza de España is hard to miss too.

BARRANCO DEL INFIERNO ‘Hell’s Gorge’ owes its name to the steep path that leads between the mountains to a 200-meter-high (660-foot) waterfall. But there’s no need to worry about the difficulty of the route. The hike is a 6.5-kilometer (four-mile) round trip, takes about three hours, and is suitable for children aged five years and up. Your starting point is in the upper part of Adeje, and all you have to do is cross its entrance to immerse yourself in this Special Nature Reserve. It is essential to book your ticket in advance through its website.

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Calle de los Molinos, 46. Adeje.

922 780 078 Reservations: barrancodelinfierno.es/en COSTA ADEJE AND ITS BEACHES In this area of the island you’ll find 21 beaches and bathing areas catering to all tastes. Some, such as Fañabé, are busy and offer all kinds of services; some are wilder and more solitary, like Diego Hernández; while others, such as La Caleta, are popular with locals. A few fly the Blue Flag, a mark of their quality.

HARD ROCK HOTEL TENERIFE Paradise could well be this hotel with hypnotic views of the ocean, a gastronomic offer varied and unique to satisfy the palates of all kinds of travelers, a spa where you can forget about the world and a soundtrack that, literally, is played by the guests, thanks to the Sound of Your Stay program.

Avenida Adeje 300, Av. Playa Paraiso, s/n, 38678 Adeje 922 74 17 00 SIAM PARK TripAdvisor users have named this the best water park in the world eight consecutive times.

There are rapids that you slide down on inflatable rafts, vertical slides where all sense of gravity disappears, flumes that cross aquariums inhabited by sharks…

The venue has several restaurants and you can buy tickets through its website.

Avenida Siam, s/n, 38660 Costa Adeje. 822 07 00 00 LOS GIGANTES Mother Nature was inspired the day she made these cliffs. They are part of the Teno Rural Park and in some places reach 600 meters (2,000 feet) in height. The under-

water life they harbor at their base is enchanting. Sitting down on nearby Los Guíos beach to admire them is one option, but the experience of seeing them from the sea, approaching by boat, leaves you speechless.

Calle los Guíos, s/n. 38683 Acantilados de Los Gigantes

SCUBA DIVING The purity of its waters and the large number of marine species that inhabit them make the west coast of the island a paradise for scuba lovers. At Los Gigantes Diving Centre they have been conducting dives and teaching courses to beginners and those looking to improve their technique for more than 25 years.

Calle Poblado Marinero.

Galería de la Marina, Local N (between piers numbers 5 and 6), Los Gigantes.

616 344 725 Palladium guides

Tenerife

Adeje

LAGARTO BRASSERIE From brunch to dinner, you can head here with the firm intention of taking your time to sample a comprehensive menu that brings together dishes such as lobster bisque, chicken mustard vol au vent and sole a la meunière, with a touch of Belgian and French cuisine.

Avenida de Las Gaviotas, 38670 La Caleta.

822 62 11 41

Eat & Drink

RESTAURANTE LA CALETA Here you can dine right next to the water, with the Atlantic as the soundtrack and the bay as a backdrop. The sunsets are incredible, as is the menu, which specializes in fish and rice, but also includes international options.

Especially recommended are the salmon rolls with avocado and miso sauce, and the pork gyozas in a yellow pepper emulsion.

Calle El Muelle, 19, 38679 La Caleta. 922 78 06 75

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LA TORRE DEL MIRADOR The charm of another era, the comfort of the 21st century, and the perennial friendliness of the staff combine at this restaurant, where the sea is the undisputed star. That’s not only because you can see it from the terrace, but also because of the amount of fish and seafood on the menu and the skill with which it is prepared.

Avenida de Bruselas, s/n, 38678 Costa Adeje.

922 71 22 09 EL TEJADO Home-cooked food just like grandma makes: delicious, copious, and prepared with a lot of love. El Tejado offers the best of Canarian cuisine on one menu with excellent fish and very good rice dishes, all at unbeatable prices.

Avenida de los Pueblos 16, 38660, Costa Adeje.

682 00 94 12 Palladium guides

Tenerife

Adeje 6 5 1. Adeje 2. Barranco del Infierno 3. Costa Adeje and its beaches 4. Siam Park 5. Los Gigantes 6. Scuba diving

7. Restaurante La Caleta 8. Lagarto Brasserie 9. La Torre del Mirador 10. El Tejado 1

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Adeje

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very January 20, Adeje dresses up to celebrate one of its patron saints, St Sebastian. The stars are undoubtedly the horses. Elegant and proud, they lead the procession that carries the image of the saint from his hermitage to Enramada beach. The 400-meter (440-yard) route ends with the riders entering the sea on their horses and other animals, such as camels, goats and sheep, surprising the attendees as they approach the water.

Romería de San Sebastián 31

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Tenerife

From Playa de the secrets of the south las Américas to El Médano

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ith its long golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and constant warm climate, the south of Tenerife is the quintessential destination for sun, beach, and leisure on the island. Known for its tourist centers with large apartment blocks and huge hotels, this area still offers surprises in the shape of small fishing villages where calm still reigns.

Compared to the rugged and rocky north, this little piece of coastline is more like what you might picture when imagining a paradise island – the kind of place where you can recover the lightness of someone whose only concern is to treat themselves to the joy of doing nothing.

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TenerifeFrom Playa de las Américas to El Médano

See & Do

LOS CRISTIANOS This town began its metamorphosis into a tourist hot spot in the 1960s.

Large blocks of apartments, restaurants with menus in every language, lively nightlife, urban beaches equipped with all kinds of services and, in the center, a few squares and little streets of low-rise houses still holding out – guardians of the essence of yesteryear. Boats depart from the port to visit Los Gigantes or to spot whales and dolphins, as well as to connect with El Hierro, La Gomera, and La Palma.

PLAYA DE LAS AMÉRICAS During the day, its wonderful beaches will seduce you – the most famous, Las Américas, is a half-kilometer (third-of-a-mile) stretch of golden sand bathed by transparent waters with all kinds of services on its shore: hammock and umbrella rentals, a play area for little ones, restaurants, and companies offering water sports. At night, the spotlight is on the cocktail bars and nightclubs that attract locals and visitors from all over the island.

LAS GALLETAS Las Galletas is a quaint fishing village where it is still possible to get a taste of the traditional life the south of the island once had. Its beaches offer visitors black sand and turquoise waters, where the little boats belonging to the locals rock from

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side to side. From here it is easy to access the Costa del Silencio tourist resort, with its superb cliffs, and, a little further away, Montaña Amarilla.

EL MÉDANO The sky above this town is a spectacle of kites, powered by the wind that kite-surfers try to harness.

Its beach is one of the largest in Tenerife and, with good weather all year round, would be perfect for a day of sun and swimming if it weren’t for that wind dominating everything. Families of digital nomads and water-sports enthusiasts make up the landscape of El Médano, a

peaceful place with a relaxed pace and bohemian air.

WHALE WATCHING Watch dolphins play next to the bow of your boat, marvel at the appearance of pilot whales, and spot sea turtles… The waters that separate Tenerife from La Gomera are home to many animal communities. Boat trips to see them last between two and five hours and depart from Los Cristianos port.

Neptune Whale Experience.

Reservations: barcostenerife.com.

922 798 044 Palladium guides

TenerifeFrom Playa de las Américas to El Médano

Eat & Drink VEINTE 04 SURF CAFÉ Vintage decor inside, a terrace with pleasant temperatures and sea views, and an extensive menu that ranges from breakfast to cocktails to close out the day. The informal dishes are based on good ingredients and well executed.

The baba ganoush hummus and the hamburgers both come recommended.

Calle Hermano Pedro, 2, 38612 El Médano.

922 17 83 75 RESTAURANTE EL TIMÓN You can eat lunch or dine on the beach enjoying the sea breeze at this restaurant, where the fish and seafood are the stars. Fresh and well-prepared ingredients, generous portions, and good prices. Don’t hesitate to order the queso asado (grill-roasted cheese) to get you started.

Paseo Marcial García, 22, 38612 El Médano. 922 17 61 00 LA PEPA FOOD MARKET Falafel, pizza, arepas, spring rolls, burritos... The stalls that make up this market display an international

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offering, as well as local dishes to try. There’s also an outdoor terrace and a children’s playground.

Avenida San Francisco, 6, 38650 Los Cristianos.

BAR RESTAURANTE EL CINE Fresh ingredients and more than 30 years of experience are the calling card of this beachside restaurant in Los Cristianos. One of its most acclaimed specialties is fried octopus. The wines, of course, are local.

Paseo Juan Bariajo, 8, 38650 Los Cristianos. 629 50 65 60 Palladium guides

Tenerife

From Playa de las Américas to El Médano

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1. Los Cristianos 2. Playa Las Américas 3. Las Galletas 4. El Médano 5. Whale watching

6. Veinte 04 Surf Café 7. Restaurante El Timón 8. La Pepa Food Market 9. Bar restaurante El Cine

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From Playa de las Américas to El Médano

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walk is more of a walk if you know the path you are following leads straight to the top of a volcano next to the sea. That’s what you experience when you climb the 171 meters (561 feet) of the Montaña Roja.

The result of a coastal eruption, it now serves as a natural border between El Médano and La Tejita beaches. You can see it in the distance, lonely, in the middle of land declared a Special Nature Reserve. It has a distinct color as a result of the oxidation processes that the materials that compose it have undergone. It’s quite a spectacle, just like the views on offer from the top: beaches at your feet, the infinite ocean on the horizon, and behind you, guarding over everything, the omnipresent Teide.

Montaña Roja viewpoint 36

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hideaway Cueva del viento Tenerife

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When you visit the Cueva del Viento (‘the Cave of Wind’), you dive deep into the Earth’s interior.

This volcanic tube, located in Icod de los Vinos, is one of the largest in the world. It is 27,000 years old and was formed with the lava released in the first eruptive phase of the Pico Viejo volcano. Around 18 kilometers (11 miles) of the enormous network of underground passages that compose it have been mapped. The part you can visit, guided by the light of your compulsory safety helmet, is a way to understand geology, marveling at the marks created by the lava as it progressed. The cave owes its name to the air currents recorded inside it.

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Tenerife

Hard Rock Hotel tenerife Avenida de Adeje 300, s/n 38678 Playa Paraíso, Adeje, Tenerife Spain Phone: +34 922 74 17 00

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Shutterstock, iStockphoto

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