Tenerife

From the lush northern shores to the black sands and volcanic rock formations of the south, Tenerife has the capacity to surprise at every turn.
HISTORY & CULTURE
The islands of Tenerife and Lanzarote were a suitably fiery place for the Guanches - the original natives and considered the strongest and bravest inhabitants of the Canaries. In the 1300s, one of the first explorers to 'discover' Lanzarote was an Italian seafarer by the name of Lancelloto Malocello. It's thought the island's name might be derived from his first name. By the end of the 15th century the Spanish had arrived, and the islands have been under Spanish rule ever since.
PLACES TO VISIT
Wherever you are on Tenerife you wont have to go far to see the distinctive cone shaped mass of the world's third highest volcano, the mighty Mount Teide. The centrepiece of Mount Teide National Park, the summit can be reached via an unforgettable cable car ride. The seven-pool Lido at Puerto de la Cruz makes for a more leisurely day out, while nearby Loro Park is a subtropical wonderland of parrots, penguins, family rides and lush gardens. La Laguna's elaborately carved 16th century cathedral is suitably imposing while, for many visitors, it's the Canary Isles 'duty free' shopping which draws them to the malls of Puerto de la Cruz.
ENTERTAINMENT
Casino Taoro in Puerto de la Cruz is a Tenerife institution and, when here, don't forget to sample the legendary Taoro Cocktail. For drinks and dancing, the Cafe de Paris is equally decadent. La Laguna, Tenerife's second city, has a similarly impressive evening calendar of events while authentic culture, head to Santa Cruz - the Pyramid's International and Flamenco Ballet is a two-hour show of Canarian culture which is the best on the island.
FOOD & DRINK
Canarian cuisine is, of course, intimately linked with that of the Spanish mainland but, geographically, the islands are closer to North Africa - a fact you can't help but be reminded of in the combination of African and Mediterranean flavours. Fresh vegetables are everywhere, as is 'gofio' - a maze-like cake which is often used instead of bread. Papas Arrugadas (tiny baked potatoes, cooked until wrinkly) are delicious, especially when drizzled with mojo (a sauce wither made with chillies or herbs). Fish, of course, is fantastic. Salted fish - Caldereta and Sancocho Canario - served with salsa verde (green sauce) is an excellent combination. For pudding, try bienmesabe - a rich concoction of honey, almond, cream and rum. Canarian wine is delicious. Young whites and reds from 'Tacoronte-Acentejo' are among the best while the most consistent is the sweet Malvasia, great for rounding off a memorable meal.
WALKS & SCENERY
At Icod de los Vinos on the west coast of Tenerife you'll find the world's largest volcanic cavity and the famous Dragon Trees which have thrived on the island since the Ice Age. La Laguna lies in the Aguere valley, which has plenty of easily accessible trails and walks to explore. The La Orotava is among the island's most picturesque regions. From La Cuesta de la Villa there is a wonderful panorama of the Orotava valley and on to Puerto de la Cruz in the north.

Factfile
Currency:	Euro
Language:	Spanish
Flight details:	Approx 4hrs - 4hrs 30mins from the UK.
Departure airports:	Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Bournemouth, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Exeter, Gatwick, Glasgow, Humberside, Leeds/Bradford, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, Nottingham East Midlands and Stansted.