There’s More to Tenerife Than Clubs and Bars | There’s no denying that many of the holidaymakers who flock to the Spanish island of Tenerife do so for its 24/7 party culture. There are plenty of clubs and bars for revelers to make the most of, and tourists can sleep off their hangovers on the sun loungers that abound in the resort areas. However, there is much more to this island than simply partying.
Those who take advantage of cheap flights to Tenerife can avoid the neon and cheap booze of places like Los Cristianos, Playa de Las Américas and Costa Adeje in the south of the island and explore more scenic, culturally rich attractions instead. After all, Tenerife boasts 350 kilometres of coast, tropical forest walks and volcanic rock formations. Meanwhile, standing at 3,718 metres, Pico del Teide is Spain’s tallest peak. As a general rule, the further away from the busy south-western resorts holidaymakers travel, the fewer tourists they find.
One great spot for those after a little culture is the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This port city offers brightly painted buildings, quirky and sophisticated shops and green parks. It is a typical Spanish conurbation and it has so far escaped the mass tourism of the south. It also has an impressive bus system, meaning visitors shouldn’t struggle to get around. While in the city, holidaymakers can sample fresh locally produced food.
Not far from the capital on the northern coast of the island is the town of Garachico, which is surrounded by forested slopes and volcanic beaches. It was once an important commercial port, but its inhabitants suffered a series of disasters including freak storms, floods, fires, epidemics and, in 1706, a major volcanic eruption. Just outside the town there are hiking trails that follow the path of the lava flow.
Meanwhile, the Teide National Park in the centre of the island is a Unesco world heritage site and boasts stunning scenery. With the highest peak rising over 7,000meters above the ocean floor the natural beauty of the area is second to none.
By avoiding the typical tourist spots and heading a little off the beaten track in Tenerife, visitors can experience a beautiful and culturally rich island with lots to offer.