This isn’t the first time I’ve been lucky enough to visit Tenerife on holiday, about four years ago with my parents, and I can still remember the great weather and the stunning skyline that outlined the volcanic mountains. I obviously was not the only one who fell in love with this area of the Canary Islands, as it did feel quite touristy and busy. On this visit, we decided to travel out of what we knew and explore the northern side of the island to the idyllic, historical spot of Santa Cruz.
Come fly with me…
There are two airports available, from the UK however, flights only run into the south of the island, and from Spain, you can fly into the North. I booked my flights through Easyjet, they were very reasonably priced and direct so once we arrived at the airport we could relax and get into holiday mode – aperol spritz anyone?
Where to rest your head…
Santa Cruz is where I would recommend staying as It’s close to the beach, the mountains and all the great restaurants, shops that you would expect to find in a small city. The location is also perfect for those who want to venture further north to explore more of the local life in Tenerife.
What to do:
Tenerife may be small in size, but you won’t be short of finding things to pass away your time on the Island. With its variety of activities and must-see sights, you may find it difficult to narrow your list down, so here’s my favourite locations and top tips:
- Las Rocas Beach Club: Before you head off up to the North, spend the day at this relaxing beach club. Your sure to feel in holiday mode with its comfy day beds, fresh delicious food, and ocean views for as far as the eye can see.
- Drive up to Cuesta de la Villa: I’ve never seen a view quite like it and it bought back memories of Rio de Janeiro. Take a pit stop at the hillside cafe ‘Vista Paraiso’ for coffee and take in the green, tropical mountain side rolling down into the sea.
- Delicious Tapas: If you like Tapas (and in my opinion, there is no “if”) then you’ll love the food at Doña Vidalina. Blink and you’d miss it, it’s tucked away in the vertical streets of Santa Ursula ( La Corujera ).Traditional and well priced, enjoy an evening of authentic Spain.
- Mount Teide: We rented a car through Europcar, it was a great and easy way to explore, and drive up Mount Teide, an impressive volcanic mountain which is the highest point above sea level on an island in the Atlantic. You can hike to the top, but if you’re feeling less adventures (like we were) you can drive. There is also access via bus, or cable car, all of which are a great way to get beautiful views of the islands nearby. Time your summit down with the sunset, and be amazed by the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen. My top tip would also be to take extra layers in case of any drops in temperature.
- Party time: There is a variety of evening entertainment so keep your eyes peeled, or like us, ask the locals for their top tips. We were lucky to be joined by a friend, Hanfry Martinez, who knew the top spots. The evening start with dinner, and then we went for cocktails with a view at Sunset 290 in Santa Ursula.
Get into the party mood with Hanfry’s mix for Foun, sure to get you ready to get your dancing shoes on!
Let me know what you think, enjoy!
Xx Kay
