A JOURNEY TO ANOTHER PLANET, WITHOUT LEAVING EARTH.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, the Teide volcano stands at the centre of the island of Tenerife. It is the highest peak in Spain, and the third highest volcano in the world, at 3,718m above sea level.

Inside you can find Las Cañadas del Teide, a huge caldera 17km in diameter, making up one of the most impressive volcanic settings in the world, creating a magical atmosphere that will leave you speechless.

INSCRIBED IN THE UNESCO LIST OF WORLD HERITAGE SITES AS A “UNIQUE EXAMPLE OF A NON-FORTIFIED COLONIAL CITY”

La Laguna was the first capital of the Canary Islands, designed in the 15th century by Leonardo Torriani. It later inspired many Spanish colonies in the Americas, such as Cuba, Peru and Colombia, where a similar architectural style was employed in the houses, squares and streets.

You will have the chance to stroll through the lively pedestrian streets in the historic centre of this university city, allowing its history, art and traditions to unfold before you. You may be surprised by the amount of cultural, shopping and leisure options on offer to enjoy during your visit.

THE SO-CALLED LOST VILLAGE

The hamlet of Masca sits atop a mountain ridge, where it enjoys a unique microclimate and protection from the ocean winds. It has around a dozen permanent inhabitants, who occupy every scrap of available land, just as the aboriginal Guanches did.

For centuries, Masca remained isolated from civilisation. Today it holds valuable treasures such as stone houses, which contain elements of traditional Canarian architecture like stone masonry and wood, fully adapting to the surroundings. According to legend, this was one of the favourite hideouts for pirates that roamed the island.

MAGIC REBORN FROM VOLCANIC ASH

After the conquest, Garachico became Tenerife’s main trading port. As a result, it attracted many influential families, who had an impact on the streets and architecture of the town. That was, until it was almost completely destroyed by a volcanic eruption, thus sending Garachico’s social and economic development into decline.

During our visit, even today, you will be able to enjoy its historical and artistic heritage, gastronomy, crafts, and natural pools created by the lava from the 1706 eruption.

HOME OF THE ANCIENT DRAGON TREE (DRACAENA DRACO)

Discover the Drago Milenario (ancient dragon tree), 800 years old, and the natural symbol of the Canary Islands. Icod welcomes us with the historical and artistic heritage of its old town, with its cobblestone lanes, small squares and colonial-style fountains.

Icod’s economy relies on winemaking and fishing, both of which are reflected in their gastronomy: potatoes with mojo (local sauces), fish and grilled meat, wine and artisan cheeses. Down by the coast, the bay of San Marcos beach, with its black, volcanic sand, serves as protection from the waves of the Atlantic.

THE MOST IMPORTANT PLACE OF WORSHIP IN THE CANARIES

Candelaria, with its volcanic beaches, bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, is known for the Basilica dedicated to the Virgin of Candelaria, patron saint of the Canary Islands. “La Morenita”, as she is known locally (because of her dark colour), was found by native Guanches during a sea storm.

There is a special atmosphere in the square adjacent to the basilica, which is surrounded by impressive sculptures of the Guanche Menceyes (Kings). Each year, on 15th August, thousands of pilgrims come here to pay their respects to their Virgin. Candelaria has a strong fishing tradition, and a seafront walkway filled with restaurants and shops selling traditional crafts.

THE ISLAND’S CAPITAL SINCE 1833

Santa Cruz de Tenerife has a lot to offer; parks such as Garcia Sanabria; emblematic buildings such as the Auditorium; museums and churches, that combine to make up a fascinating city. It’s historical neighbourhood was where the port began to grow, boosting the capital’s economic growth.

Santa Cruz hosts one of the best Carnival celebrations in the world. In the centre, there are many pedestrianised streets with a variety of shopping options and leisure areas on offer. We recommend a stroll along the leafy Ramblas, a popular local spot.

A TOWN IN THE MOUNTAINS, CLOSE TO TEIDE

Charming Vilaflor de Chasna is located at over 1500m above sea level, in a rural area in the southern mid-altitude zone, at the foothills of Teide Nacional Park. It is set in a stunning landscape, surrounded by a dense forest of Canary Island pine, offering many marked hiking trails that allow visitors to get in touch with nature.

The first saint to come from the Canary Islands, Hermano Pedro, was born here in 1626. Today a Sanctuary stands in his honour on the site of the home where he was born, made of volcanic stone and Canary Island pine. Important economic activities include growing potatoes, vines and almonds, all suited to the land and mountain climate.

ONE OF THE MOST ATTRACTIVE AND STATELY PLACES ON THE ISLAND

La Orotava has a stately atmosphere dating back to the time of the island’s conquest. Its well preserved streets have led the town’s historical centre to be declared a Site of Historical and Artistic Interest. It is known for its typical balconies that decorate the facades of traditional homes, and its cobblestone streets.

Corpus Christi is the most important event of the year, during which the town’s square is covered in ephemeral works of art made from flowers and volcanic sand. The Orotava Valley is a striking landscape, crowned by Teide, which is unique for its abundance of water, beautiful gardens and pleasant climate. It is surrounded by extensive agricultural land and protected natural areas.

A NATURAL TREASURE INSIDE A LAUREL FOREST

The subtropical forest in Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve measuring over 35,000 acres, is a protected natural area for birds, flora and fauna, containing the highest number of endemic species in Europe.

Anaga is a mountain range situated in the north-east of Tenerife, containing deep valleys and ravines that open up to the sea, creating beaches of volcanic sand. Both along the coast and in the mountains, small hamlets have been built up by locals who have learnt how to harness nature’s resources to grow their crops.

PLACE OF NATIONAL TOURIST INTEREST

Puerto de la Cruz maintains the feel of a small fishing village in its harbour, where small boats unload their catch. We will pass by charming spots such as the Plaza del Charco, and watch the waves crash along the coast at San Telmo, close to the fantastic Lago Martiánez, and a lively shopping and entertainment area.

There is a long tradition of tourism here, and some interesting street art to enjoy in the La Ranilla neighbourhood, where world-famous artists have decorated the walls of this fishermen’s quarter with their creations.