Category Archives: Outdoors

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September holidays in Tenerife

30 August, 2019 javier Leave a comment

Are you going to spend your September holidays in Tenerife? We welcome you to an island full of adventures, where you and your family can fill your album with memories for a lifetime. Will you join us?

Cosmopolitan cities with their own identity

Who doesn’t like to discover unique places? Puerto de la Cruz combines the modernity of an open-air museum, Puerto Street Art, with the identity of a city that has not lost its peculiarities.

Stroll through the La Ranilla neighborhood with its murals, take a dip in the Atlantic ocean at the beautiful beaches of San Telmo and Playa Jardín, or relax in idyllic surroundings such as Lago Martiánez. Puerto de la Cruz is a miniature universe with a small treasure on every corner.

In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, avant-garde and history takes you to places such as the Guimerá Theatre, the oldest theatre in the Canary Islands, or the Tenerife Auditorium, designed by the architect Santiago Calatrava, which is part of the city’s landmark.

The capital of the Island is fortunate to host one of our visitors’ favourite beaches, Las Teresitas, as well as the César Manrique Maritime Park, a large swimming pool complex in the shade of El Palmetum, the largest collection of tropical palm trees in Europe. No matter what you choose, we assure you that in Santa Cruz you can find a place you will always want to return to.

Rural getaways in Tenerife – get to know the villages and hamlets

If you are looking for a rural getaway, we can also give you some recommendations. In Tenerife you won’t get tired of seeing all the different places!

One of the most famous places is the hamlet Masca in Buenavista del Norte. It is framed in a spectacular setting, in the shadow of an imposing rock. It is one of the most popular places in the Teno Rural Park, where you can not only enjoy the breathtaking scenery, but also try local food.

In the northeast of the island you will find Taganana. You look from above on countless white houses, which meander to the coast. If you are looking for breathtaking views, then you must visit the viewpoint El Bailadero. We assure you that the trip is worthwhile.

Do you want to see Los Gigantes as you have never seen the cliffs before, maybe even a beautiful panorama of our neighbor island La Gomera? Punta de Teno is our recommendation for a very different perspective.

Tenerife nature routes

Now that we’ve presented you to the towns and hamlets of Tenerife, how about submerging into the most curious and most spectacular nature of our island?

Tenerife – whale sanctuary

One of the favourite activities by our visitors is whale watching. If you want to explore the southwest coast of Tenerife and admire these beautiful animals, remember to embark with one of the companies of the Sustainability Charter. You will ensure a respectful experience with the environment, as well as the guidance of the best professionals.

A charming valley

Finally, the north of Tenerife deserves part of your time on the island. Small municipalities, each with its own magic, populate the entire Orotava Valley. If you continue your journey to the northwest you will find some natural wonders such as The Millenary Dragon Tree, the oldest in the whole archipelago.

Among these wonders we must also highlight the Cueva del Viento, the largest volcanic tube in Europe. You can do guided tours to discover the underground of Tenerife.

A wonderful September is waiting for you on our island. So, what are you waiting for?

Miscellanium, Nature, Outdoors, Teide

The best places to stargaze in Tenerife

25 June, 2019 javier Leave a comment

There are many places to observe stars in Tenerife. In fact, Granadilla de Abona and Mount Teide are recognised as Starlight tourist destinations, which certify the quality of their starry skies. Do you want to know which are the best places to observe stars in Tenerife? We tell you below:

Mountains of Guajara

To reach this place, you first have to walk along the Degollada de Guajara path to get to Alto de Guajara. The first section takes about an hour and the final stretch can be reached in another hour and a half.

The impressive panoramas of Mount Teide reward the effort and the Guajara Mountains are the third highest point in the National Park, with 2,715 metres of height.

Here the astronomer Jean Mascart made some observations of the comet Halley in 1910. For this purpose, he built a hut and some remnants are still on the top of the path.

Parador and surroundings

If you prefer a simpler place to access and do not want to go for a long hike, you can try the Parador de Turismo Las Cañadas and its surroundings. In fact, the hostel itself can serve as a base camp and location for planning your excursions to the stars.

There is ample parking and the opportunity to visit nearby places for stargazing such as the viewpoint La Ruleta or the Roques de García. Did you know that on Mount Teide there are many viewpoints (miradores) from which you can take a look into space?

Viewpoints of El Teide for stargazing

In the Teide National Park there are many viewpoints, like the one mentioned before La Ruleta. The viewpoints are located in strategic areas of the park, with good visibility and a higher level, which makes them ideal for stopping to gaze into the cosmos.

Some of the best viewpoints to observe stars are:

Mirador del Llano de Ucanca

This viewpoint, located at the foot of the TF-21 road, offers magnificent views of the Teide. The great plain that gives it its name makes it an ideal place to stop and enjoy the immensity that surrounds you.

Mirador del Tabonal Negro

Here we will turn our backs on the Teide for an impressive view of the Guajara Mountains. This viewpoint is especially frequented during the daytime when the Teide bugloss is in bloom, but at dusk it is a great meeting point to watch the night sky. It is also on the side of the TF-21 road and has a small parking lot.

Mirador de La Ruleta

Located right next to the Roques de García, this viewpoint offers plenty of space to set up your telescope and observe both the Teide in all its splendor and the rock formation of La Fortaleza and its surroundings.

Izaña

In this mountainous enclave, at over 2,000 metres, is the Teide Observatory, part of the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands, which houses telescopes and instruments from up to 60 institutions from 19 different countries.

If you are interested in astronomy and want to know more about the work of the scientists, you can even take part in one of the many astronomical experiences that Tenerife offers you.

Now that you know which are the best places for stargazing, all you have to do is gather your team, prepare your camera and telescope and launch yourself into the adventure of discovering the cosmos in one of the best places in the world.

Hiking, Miscellanium, Nature, Outdoors

Hiking for beginners in Tenerife – quick guide

13 June, 2019 javier Leave a comment

With more than 1,000 kilometres of trails, hiking in Tenerife is the best option for exploring the island’s nature on foot. In addition, every year, hikers from all over the world come together to celebrate the Tenerife Walking Festival – a fantastic opportunity to participate in a great hiking event and get to know Tenerife in a different way. But if you want to hike on your own and do not know where to start? Then read on carefully, because in this blog post we give you some tips that will be very useful.

When can you go hiking in Tenerife?

In Tenerife, our climate allows you to go hiking all year round, except when snowfalls prevent access to the Teide trails in winter. On some days the bad weather can affect the condition of the trails. For this reason, it is important to always consult the weather forecast before setting out on the route, and to stay well informed about the paths ask the tourist information offices and visitor centres.

What do you need for hiking in Tenerife?

As in other sports, hiking requires having adequate equipment, although the difficulty is always the path itself. The essential equipment is good hiking boots and a backpack where you should put water, food and warm clothes, as well as a hat if you need it.

It is also advisable to take trekking poles if you are planning longer trips or you simply feel safer with them. You should also have a well-charged mobile phone, although there is no signal in many areas. But it can be useful if you pre-download maps or use specific trail apps.

Permits

In Tenerife there are several protected nature reserves and natural landscapes, so you will need a permit for them in order to use their trails. But do not worry because in the tourist information offices you get all the necessary information.

To access the Teide peak it is necessary to ask for a permit on the official website of National Parks, although remember that if you spend the night at the Altavista refuge and get on the peak before 9 in the morning, it is not necessary to ask for permission.

Hiking trails for beginners in Tenerife

You feel like exploring the trails of the island, but do not know yet which routes you should choose, then we recommend you to start with a low level of difficulty.

Way of the senses

It is located in the Anaga Mountains and is a very special path, as it encourages you to discover the nature of this unique environment by smelling, touching and seeing. It is divided into 3 different sections, the first is wheelchair accessible, while the third covers the previous two and leads to the viewpoint Mirador del Llano de los Loros.

Samarines, exploring the coast of Candelaria

If you want to explore the volcanic coast of the island, this small trail of only 2 kilometres is ideal. Part of the Basilica of Candelaria, as well as beaches, cliffs, native flora and other landscapes can be seen on the route, which incidentally was used in pre-Hispanic times by the indigenous people, the Guanches. It is a round trip, so you can discover the things that you might not have notised on your first trip.

Monte del Agua

To discover the landscapes in the northwest of Tenerife, you can choose the path known as “Monte de Agua”, which leads you to the hamlet of El Palmar. There are two options for the tour: the first takes you through Las Huertas and the second through Las Lagunetas. Both take about an hour and, to reach their starting point, you have to cross part of the trail between Erjos and Las Portelas.

Tenerife Walking Festival, the next step

If you’re ready to take the plunge and live an authentic hiking experience, the Tenerife Walking Festival is your event. Every year in late May, adventurers from all over the world gather on our island to explore the best trails. Join us next time!

Hiking, Miscellanium, Nature, Outdoors, Teide

Experiences on Mount Teide – stars, hiking trails and Martian landscapes

20 March, 2019 javier Leave a comment

The experiences in the Teide National Park can be very different. From challenging hikes that reward you with breathtaking views, to exploring the constellations and galaxies in the night sky.

A tour to El Teide and the National Park in all its splendor

A trip to El Teide is certainly one of the most important experiences that can be done in Tenerife. There is a lot to see and to discover! After all, the size of the National Park is 18,990 hectares or 26,000 football fields!

The duration of an excursion is approximately eight and a half hours. Here you will discover volcanic landscapes, typical Canarian villages and some natural monuments of the park while getting to know the geological history of our islands.

Ascent to Pico Teide, the summit of Spain

The ascent to Pico Teide is an experience that you can’t describe in words. You have to live it to really understand what it feels to stand on the summit of Spain, at 3,718 metres, and the third highest volcano in the world, measured from the seafloor.

When you reach the top and raise your gaze, you will see two seas. The first is a sea of fluffy clouds rocked by the trade winds, the second is the vast Atlantic Ocean with its intense blue.

In favorable weather conditions you can also see the silhouette of the rest of the islands that are closest to Tenerife: La Gomera, El Hierro, La Palma and Gran Canaria. An immaterial experience that you will surely keep in your heart and memory.

Stars of El Teide – close to the galaxy

Stargazing on El Teide is undoubtedly a galactic experience. The Teide Observatory is the world’s largest solar observatory with instruments and telescopes from various nations and international institutions.

After visiting the facilities you can wait for the sunset to finally see the stars. Depending on the night you will see stars and radiant galaxies or a bright moon full of craters, landforms and mountains… As you’ve never seen it before!

Did you know that you can also find the mountains Tenerife, Pico and the crater Piazzi Smyth on the moon? The latter was named in honour of the Scottish astronomer, who wrote “Tenerife: The Experiences of an Astronomer” and whose studies made a great contribution to the scientific interest on the island.

Trails in the Teide National Park – paths between volcanoes and rocks

Walking at more than 2,000 metres can be a challenge. Mount Teide offers several routes that lead from the difficult paths to the summit or the refuge of Altavista (although you can always take the cable car as an alternative) to the trails that pass through the natural heritage of the National Park such as the Roques de García or the Cathedral of the Teide.

No matter which route you choose, always remember to bring water or isotonic drinks in your backpack, and stop occasionally to rest and recharge batteries. Also wear warm clothes, regardless of the season in which you make the trip, as the temperature can change at that altitude and then it gets very cold.

Precisely this is what makes Tenerife unique. You can sunbathe on the beach, then put on your coat and be in a few hours above the clouds. Do you want to discover it?

Miscellanium, Nature, Outdoors, Paragliding, Sports

Paragliding in Tenerife – a 360º experience

1 November, 2018 javier Leave a comment

Paragliding in Tenerife is an activity that is becoming increasingly popular among our visitors. Flying as freely as a bird over the sea of clouds, surrounded by the beautiful landscape at the foot of the Atlantic, is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience and the icing on the cake for your perfect holiday in Tenerife. Do you want to know more about paragliding? Where can you practise it? What is necessary? Keep reading, we’ll tell you!

Where to practice paragliding in Tenerife?

In Tenerife there are several paragliding takeoff and landing spots, divided into north (Los Realejos), southwest (Adeje) and east (Güímar). In the 360º panorama you can see the area of La Corona, one of the most famous starting points. As soon as you take off you can admire the entire La Orotava valley in all its splendor.

Other relevant areas for paragliding are Ifonche (Vilaflor), Taucho (Adeje), Izaña (from where you can land both in the north and in the south), the Güímar hillside or the Fasnia volcano.

Izaña‘s takeoff point is one of the most famous and sought-after, as it is 2,300 metres above sea level. It is a unique flight because it starts with direct views of Mount Teide and you can land in Puerto de la Cruz in the north as well as in Güímar in the south. If you do not know which starting point to choose, then you will certainly not regret this one with these amazing views of Mount Teide.

When to do paragliding in Tenerife?

The weather conditions in Tenerife make it possible to practise paragliding actually all year round. However, the best time for experienced pilots is in the months of October to May.

Some landing areas, especially those that involve beaches, are only available during the winter months. So if you want to descend on a beach, plan your flight during the winter season.

In addition, it is always advisable to consult the daily weather conditions, both for the landing area and for the take-off area. And who could better advise you on this? The experts of the Canarian Federation of Paragliding: mail fecda@fecda.org or phone: +34 928400805 // +34 615602329.

What do I need for paragliding in Tenerife?

There are several options, depending on your skill level and the flight you are interested in:

The experience of flying

In Tenerife there are a lot of companies with a wide range of tandem flights for the different flying areas of the island. No previous experience is necessary, as you will always be accompanied by a pilot who will fly the paraglider.

You just have to relax, smile and feel free as a bird; a dream that can become reality today.

Learn to fly in Paradise

If you want to learn to fly and have control over the paraglider, no problem, as the flight companies offer different learning courses.

The paragliding professionals teach you all the techniques and secrets, from the basics to improving or perfecting your flying technique.

Ride the wind

If you already know how to fly, then you can paraglide with our own equipment. Due to the personal characteristics usually equipment is not rented. Remember to check the local regulations for a safe flight. If you have any questions or doubts, contact the Canarian Paragliding Federation.

Now you know, all about paragliding in Tenerife… Do you want to overcome your limits on the island? Then click here.

Miscellanium, Nature, Outdoors, Teide, Whales and Dolphins

Los Gigantes in 360 degrees – a unique experience

18 October, 2018 javier Leave a comment

Exploring Los Gigantes 360 degrees is, without a doubt, a fantastic virtual journey. At a glance you can go from the intense blue of the Atlantic Ocean to the white snowy Mount Teide. Join us to discover all the secrets of this corner of Tenerife!

Puerto Santiago

If you look to the right, you will see a small coastal town: Puerto Santiago. It belongs to the municipality of Santiago del Teide and you will find cozy beaches like Playa del Puerto Santiago or Playa de los Guíos, with Los Gigantes in the background.

Strolling through the streets, you can taste the gastronomy of Tenerife, including one of the restaurants with a Michelin star: El Rincón de Juan Carlos. You can also go to the Archipenque lookout point if you would like to have another perspective of the town.

Whales and dolphins swimming in front of you

One of the most beautiful activities in this area of Tenerife is the observation of whales and dolphins. You can make boat trips of different duration to see the graceful cetaceans swimming in their natural habitat.

The observation of marine mammals is worthwhile in Tenerife, as they are seen at 80% of the days throughout the year. Depending on the length of the excursion you can even take a little snack on board and take a dip in some remote coves of Los Gigantes. Highly Recommended!

Los Gigantes, guardians up to 600 metres high

But undoubtedly, the absolute protagonist of this 360-degree image is the steep coast of Los Gigantes. At some points it reaches a height of up to 600 metres and is therefore one of the most impressive natural monuments of Tenerife.

This “geological accident” is of volcanic origin and extends over several kilometres in the municipalities of Santiago del Teide and Buenavista del Norte. In the Guanche era, this natural wonder was called „Wall of Hell” by the ancient inhabitants of Tenerife who believed that the end of the world was behind these cliffs.

Fortunately, we can still admire this gift of nature as much as the Guanches.

Punta de Teno, an almost hidden natural treasure

The last treasure on this 360-degree image is Punta de Teno, one of the most remote and beautiful corners of Tenerife.

On the left side of the picture is a small plain. This is the beach of Punta de Teno. To protect nature, access is restricted on certain days and Punta de Teno can only be reached by public transport.

Would you like to discover more 360º images and places to explore Tenerife? Follow our blog to be informed of all the news.

Miscellanium, Nature, Outdoors, Sports, Teide, Theme Parks, Whales and Dolphins

Tenerife, an adventure for the whole family

28 July, 2017 javier 1 Comment

More than 2,000 square kilometres under your feet and a summit over 3,000 metres high; discover a universe of landscapes… And the adventure begins right from your landing in Tenerife: a world receives you with an annual average temperature of 23º degrees.

A lot of relaxation will be found in nature or if you are on action, you can boost your adrenaline levels in the leisure parks and sports activities. No matter what your family likes, Tenerife has many surprises for you.

Paddling along the coast of Tenerife, Kayak in Los Gigantes

If you love being in nature and want to explore the coast, feeling the sea under your feet, then put the life jacket on and let’s get started your adventure in a kayak along the coast of Los Gigantes. These gigantic cliffs, which reach more than 600 metres in height in some points, will leave you speechless and, with some luck, you may even have some companion during your journey, dolphins!

Discover the marine fauna from nearby

Do you fancy an experience at sea but prefer something more relaxing? Then perhaps you should book a tour on one of the whale and dolphin watching boats. You can see from very close many of the species that inhabit the waters of Tenerife and watch the dolphins playing. A relaxing experience on the Atlantic.

In addition, there is a quality certificate for whale and dolphin watching companies, which ensures that they respect the environment in order to preserve our wildlife and actively participate in scientific projects and trainings.

Ascent to the sky: the Mount Teide National Park

Getting to know the highlands of the island and watching as a large cloud cover sway in a white sea is definitely one of the experiences that must be „stored on your retina“ when you come to Tenerife. In addition, our Mount Teide celebrates this year its 10th Anniversary as an Unesco World Heritage Site. This confirms that it is a unique place and icon of our island for a good reason. No matter if you are watching star galaxies at night, or the volcanic landscapes of the National Park (where Clash of the Titans was filmed) during the day, you will remember this special place forever.

A lighthouse that leads you on your journey: Punta de Teno

Punta de Teno is one of the most beautiful and idyllic corners of the island, with over 8,000 acres of green nature, volcanic landscapes and laurel forests… One of the most popular attractions in the northwest of the island is the lighthouse of Punta de Teno, where you can enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the Cliffs of Los Gigantes. If you want to experience a romantic sunset, just follow the lighthouse and enjoy the moment.

Pure adrenaline and water fun in Siam Park

Here you can try out the most breathtaking water slides, or relax at the artificial sand beach… Siam Park has been awarded for four years in a row as the „Best Water Park in the World“ according to Trip Advisor and yes, it deserves it. Why? Find it out by yourself, navigating the calm Mai Thai River or slide down, almost to gravity, The Dragon… Children love it and parents have at least as much fun as their kids or even more.

But that was not all…

The best? This is just a small sample of what awaits you in Tenerife, there are still many more corners, parks and experiences that you should explore for yourself. Just make the first step, embark on your adventure and land in Tenerife

Festival, Hiking, Miscellanium, Nature, News, Outdoors

Get your boots on for Tenerife Walking Festival!

8 March, 2016 Karen Blanchard 1 Comment

The island is hosting one of Europe’s most important hiking events: March 29 to April 2, 2016

The second edition of Tenerife Walking Festival (TWF 2016) is just around the corner. One of the most important hiking events in Europe and attracting more than a hundred participants from across the continent, TWF will be based in Puerto de la Cruz from March 29 to April 2.

Featuring internationally and nationally renowned speakers plus a grand finale with the island’s cuisine and wines, TWF will highlight adventure and outdoor activities on Tenerife.

“The Tenerife Walking Festival returns with the same strengths and qualities which made it a benchmark last year notably the quality and variety of footpaths, the complementary activities and Puerto de la Cruz hosting the event,” says Tenerife Cabildo’s Tourism chief, Alberto Bernabé.

“In just two editions, the festival has become a reference for ramblers, and we want its promotional philosophy and respect for the environment to be present in other initiatives that we plan to implement on the island during the year.”

The festival offers the chance to hike up to 15 trails, which are a selection of the most striking on Tenerife. If you wish to enroll, you can still register online at www.tenerifewalkingfestival.com

Complementary activities: talks and a grand food and wine party

The whole Island and specifically Puerto de la Cruz will be focusing on hiking during the week-long TWF 2016 and local residents are also invited to take part in the parallel activities such as presentations on Wednesday 30 March, Thursday 31 March and Friday 1st April taking place in the San Felipe Castle at 20:30. All are welcome to join in the grand closing party on Saturday 2 April in the Plaza de Europa from 12:00 noon. All these activities will be free of charge and open to everyone.

On Wednesday 30 March there will be a talk by José María Nasarre, Head of Nature of the Spanish Mountaineering Federation (FEDME), who will speak about safety on the trails. The next day, Juan Jesús Ibáñez, a member of the International Union of Mountaineering and Climbing (UIAA), will speak about the project Respect the Mountain, which will restore a footpath on Tenerife in June.

On Friday, 1st April Sebastian Alvaro, the legendary adventurer and director of Spain’s TVE programme “Al Filo de lo Imposible, who is once again the festival’s “godfather, will offer one of his keynote talks combining his life story with spectacular photographs and videos of his expeditions.

The grand finale to the TWF 2016 will be a bustling, lively celebration with tapas, tasting the local wines, show cooking sessions and a fair featuring a sample of the wide range of outdoor and adventure activities on offer for visitors to Tenerife.