In my recent post on 12 European Places to visit in 2020, in January I recommended looking for Winter Sun in Tenerife (a Spanish Island). So, here is bit more information on what to see and do in Tenerife.

If you have had enough of the January cold and you want to skip the winter wonderlands in search of some warm weather and sunshine, then Tenerife could be just the destination for you!

Tenerife is one of the Canary Islands, and although it is part of Spain, it shares Africa’s climate and as the largest island of the Canary Islands attracts lots of sunshine lovers each year, with a wide range of activities to entertain both young and old!

The weather in Tenerife is beautiful throughout the year (never below 18 degrees in winter and up to about 28 degrees in summer) and definitely favours relaxation, barbecues and poolside drinks.

However, if you can drag yourself away from the beach or the pool, there are plenty of things to do! There are volcanoes to visit, treks to be done and you can also play golf, go cycling, try your hand at the wide range of water-sports proposed, go paragliding, turtle watching and have a fun day out at one of the amusement parks to name just a few of the activities on offer.

Read on for more ideas of what to do and more photos.

What to do in Tenerife

There are a surprising number of things to do in Tenerife from trekking up a volcano, hiking, relaxing in tropical gardens to visiting theme parks, playing golf and a wide range of water sports.

In general,  architecture and historic towns are mostly found in the north of the island while the theme parks and coastal resorts are predominantly in the south (which generally benefits from better weather).

For more ideas of what to see and do in Tenerife, read on.

Visit a volcano

winter sun in tenerife

No trip to Tenerife would be complete without a visit to ‘Mount Teide’, an impressive volcano, which rises nearly 4000 metres above sea level.

In order to access the top of Mount Teide you will need to apply for a permit from this site. The permit is free, but you need to reserve the date and your time slot in advance, as there is a limit of 50 people that can be at the top at any time.

winter sun in tenerife

You can hike up to the summit (if you are feeling particularly energetic), or take a cable car from the lower station, where there is a restaurant, parking etc..

However, the cable car takes you almost to the summit (3555m) and you will have to take one of the hiking trails for the last part, and you should be aware that you will still need to apply for a permit if you want to go up to the summit. However, you still get spectacular views over the Teide National Park from the upper station.

Some tips would be

  • don’t wear a dress or a skirt, as it’s very windy at the summit
  • wear sensible, walking shoes (even if you take the cable car up, there are three paths at the peak and these are not practicable in high heels!
  • tie your hair back, unless you want a seriously bad hair day!

I successfully managed the first two, but completely forgot to tie my hair back, which resulted in a a painful detangling session later!

Teide National Park

Even if you don’t want to visit the summit, it’s well worth visiting the Tiede National Park, which is a Unesco World Heritage site. The landscape is awe-inspiring and you could almost imagine you were on Mars!

Alternatively, you may want to experience Teide by night; Enjoy a typical Canarian dinner accompanied by different wines from the area, and afterwards, you’ll be taken to Teide, where you’ll admire the beauty of the stars with a specialist guide.

Visit the capital, Santa Cruz and the nearby San Andres.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is not only the capital but it is also a beautiful port situated in the north-east of  Tenerife, and boasts some wonderful beaches too.

what to do in Tenerife

Most of the hotels, shopping areas, restaurants, bars, galleries and museums fall within a triangular area bordered by the wide Rambla on the west, the port on the east and the Avenida Tres de Mayo in the south. The Calle Castillo is the hub of the city’s main shopping area.

If you’re in Tenerife in February, then don’t miss ‘The Carnival of Santa Cruz’, reputed to be the second most popular and internationally known carnival, after the one held in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). However, I have never been to Tenerife in February and so have no first hand experience of the event! If you have been to the Santa Cruz Carnival, please leave a comment below and tell us if it is worth it!

San Andres is a charming village just a few kilometres from Santa Cruz, and it is also the oldest village on Tenerife island.

Even if you are not an architecture or history enthusiast, San Andres is a good place for you, as the village is next to Las Teresitas beach, which is one of the few golden sandy beaches in Tenerife and a perfect spot for relaxing after a visit to the village of San Andres.

Go hiking

For the energetic, there are plenty of hikes and walks on Tenerife. A lot of the hikes take place at the ‘Barrancas’ (ravines/ gorges)

tenerife

A great place for walking is the Anaga Mountains in the North of the island. The Anaga Country Park (which has been declared a Biosphere Reserve)  is just a short drive from the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and is a beautiful area for hiking. It includes the mountain peaks of Bichuelo, Anambro, Chinobre, Pico Limante, Cruz de Taborno and Cruz del Carmen and covers almost 14,500 hectares (35,800 acres). Some trails require permits, but we did a short trek which didn’t require a permit, which was perfect for us! 

What to do in Tenerife

The Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses) is a great idea for families with children and those with reduced mobility as it is physically not too demanding, has lots of interactive experiences for children and it doesn’t need prior reservation.

What to do in Tenerife

One of the most famous hiking trails is the Barranco del Infierno (“Hell’s Gorge”), which is located near the town of Adeje in the south of the island . This trail (which takes about 3 1/2 hours to complete) leads through the ravine to the highest waterfall on Tenerife, but only 300 visitors per day  are allowed to enter in order to preserve the environment and not alter the development of the flora and fauna.  So, it is highly recommended to reserve – you can find more details and reserve online here.

Visit Masca

Masca is one of Tenerife’s prettiest villages, and until recently, it was relatively undiscovered as there has only been a road access since the 1970s. Prior to this Masca was only accessible on foot or by donkey and was completely self sufficient, growing crops of potatoes, tomatoes, onions, sweet potatoes, vines and fruit trees.

winter sun in tenerife

The village is sandwiched between the Masca and Madre des Agua gorges and towered over by the ancient Teno mountains. It is one of the five villages that are set in the Teno Rural Park.

As, I mentioned, it is now accessible by road. However, this is not a drive for the faint hearted- as the road consists of hairpin bends and tight corners, coupled with the fact that you are highly likely to encounter tourist buses driving in the opposite direction!

We drove there, but it was quite a scary experience and I think I left my stomach behind somewhere on the route! If, you don’t fancy driving yourself, then you can find the bus timetable here.

winter sun in tenerife

Despite the nerve wracking journey, the first view of Masca is well worth it, as you marvel at the rocky ravines, cobbled paths and houses which seem to be perched precariously on the edge of the rocks. 

Many of the houses are now abandoned, and there are only about 150 inhabitants, but there is a small museum, a tiny village church and 3 or 4 restaurants, serving typical Canarian food and the local specialities of cactus lemonade and cactus ice-cream (which I think must be an acquired taste!!)

tenerife

Masca also has a beach BUT it’s a 3 hour trek through the Masca ‘barranca’ ( gorge) to get there!  You can either hike down and back up again (about 6 hours in total), but this is only recommended for those with a very good fitness level or  you can hike down then catch a boat that takes you to Los Gigantes. (Of course, the latter is not an option if you have parked your car in Masca!)

 Visit Los Gigantes

What to do in Tenerife

The small resort of Los Gigantes is located on the west coast of Tenerife, to the south of Masca, and is famous for the impressive cliff face of the seven million year old Teno Mountains, which gives the resort its name (‘The Giants’).

The Los Gigantes cliffs also serve another purpose (beyond a scenic backdrop for blog and Instagram posts!) as they protect the town from the trade winds, ensuring that Los Gigantes is the perfect place for a sunshine break. However, the beach, Los Guios (which is a black sand beach), doesn’t get much sun in the morning, because of the height of the cliffs, but it’s great after midday!

winter sun in tenerife

There is a beautiful natural pool in the sea at Los Gigantes, but be careful to heed any warning flags and avoid swimming there in rough weather.

What to do in Tenerife

The focal point of the village is a pretty marina lined with a handful of quayside bars and restaurants, although there is also a variety of small shops and restaurants in the village itself.

Given it’s position, there is also a wide range of water sports, diving trips and deep-sea fishing excursions on offer for the more adventurous.

It’s the perfect base for a whale and dolphin watching trip as the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera are ideal for spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

You can take a 3-hour cruise by sail boat, to marvel at the scenery and see and listen to the dolphins, whales, and turtles in their natural habitat. The price includes free pick up from locations between Los Gigantes and La Caleta, snorkelling in a secluded bay, and complimentary snacks and drinks. There is also a 4,5 hour cruise proposed – click on the images for more details.

Visit Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz is Tenerife’s main tourist resort in the north of the island and it has retained much of it’s Canarian charm, in particular the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town.

winter sun in tenerife

The resort lies at the edge of the Orotava valley, a lush valley with a spectacular landscape of palm trees, laurels, dragon trees, cypresses and oleanders. The town, La Orotava, which gives the valley its name is only a few kilometres away from Puerto de la Cruz.

Agatha Christie stayed at the ‘Gran Hotel Taoro’ in Puerto de la Cruz in 1927 to recover from an emotional breakdown, and it is said that she completed ‘The Mystery of the Blue Train’, while staying here.  Also, the action described in one of her short stories (‘The Man from the Sea’) takes place in an island that Christie locates in the Mediterranean Sea but which reflects clearly  the estate of ‘La Paz’ at Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife.

Relax on the beach or try some watersports

winter sun in tenerife

Whilst there are many beaches on Tenerife, most are not covered with soft white or golden sand, but instead, due to the islands’ volcanic origin, many beaches consist of black sand.

However, in some of the popular tourist resorts on the South-West of the island, you will find golden sand, such as at Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje, where white sand was pumped up from the sea bed.

If you are feeling more energetic, a wide array of watersports is on offer, including sailing, diving, snorkelling, water-skiing, jet ski, windsurfing, deep sea fishing and parascending!

Visit the amusement parks

To be honest, I’m not a great fan of amusement parks, so I didn’t actually visit any during my stay, but I’m including a few details of the main parks on the island with some links to find out more!

 Siam Park

Siam Park is located near Costa Adeje and is a giant water park, with lots of different slides and other attractions such as a beach where you can try your hand at surfing! For more information, see here., and click below to buy “skip the line” tickets

Loro Park

Loro Park (‘parrot’ park) is located in Puerto de la Cruz on Tenerife’s north coast and is much more than a parrot park! As well as the parrots from which it derives its name, it is also home to many other wildlife attractions.

Jungle Park

Jungle Park is set in a tropical gardens close to Los Cristianos and is home to birds of prey and other wild animals, living in their natural habitat. Click below to buy a ‘skip the line‘ ticket.

Aqualand

Aqualand is another water park , with slides for all ages and dedicated children’s areas. Click below to buy a ‘skip the line‘ ticket.

Visit Los Cristianos/ Playa de las Americas

Los Cristianos is one of the most popular and busy resorts on the Canary Islands. It was once an old fishing town that over the years has experienced major expansion, making it a popular holiday destination. There is a long pedestrian walkway, which borders the beach, and you can find a wide array of bars, hotels and restaurants all along the promenade.

winter sun in tenerife

Just beyond Los Cristianos and running seamlessly into it is Playa de las Américas, with its high-rise hotels, glossy shopping centres and lively nightlife! 

Playa de las Américas is the party capital of Tenerife and may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a quiet, romantic getaway or a holiday with young children, but is perfect for a hen do or stag night! In particular there is a one kilometre stretch known as ‘Verónicas’ that is packed with nightclubs, bars, shops and restaurants.

Chill in Costa Adeje

tenerife

Just along the coast from Playa de las America, you will find Costa Adeje, which is the newest resort area in Tenerife and considered to be the jewel in its crown. It is a very upmarket destination, with a wide range of smart hotels, restaurants, bars and shops!

Costa Adeje

The sea-front is a great choice for a cocktail or dinner venue, as you will find everything from English pub food to sushi,  spaghetti, curry, fish or fajitas! More than a dozen different nationalities are represented, including Canarian cuisine (I definitely recommend trying the Canarian potatoes!)

winter sun in tenerife

You can also play a round of golf at the Costa Adeje golf club and admire the sea views (above)

There is also a wide variety of shops including boutiques, designer labels and other great places to pick up a bargain just behind the beach area.

Or, you could just relax in the pool!

Where to Stay for some winter sun in Tenerife

I stayed in Costa Adeje, and here are some of my favourite places in this area. For a more detailed review, you can have a look at my article on ‘The Code of Style’ Magazine.

The GF Victoria Hotel

winter sun in tenerife

The first thing that struck me about the GF Victoria hotel was the cleverly designed glass pool that hangs out over the edge of the building, and this is just one of the incredible features of this chic hotel which manages to cater equally well for couples and for families, with separate areas and events for both adults and children, as well as areas catering to both. For example, it has two private spa areas: one for adults only and one for families.

It is situated just opposite the Plaza del Duque shopping centre and just a stones throw from the Playa del Duque beach. The greens of Costa Adeje Golf are 10 minutes by car, as is Siam Park.

winter sun in tenerife

The glass pool is located on the 5th floor in the SkyBar (Zambra sky bar) adults only area and has incredible views over Costa Adeje and the coast.

winter sun in tenerife

For more information on the GF Victoria Hotel, have a look here.

Sheraton La Caleta Resort and Spa

winter sun in tenerife

The Sheraton La Caleta Resort and Spa is tucked away in a calm location, at the most westerly edge of Costa Adeje. It is a great place to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle and yet just a 10-minute stroll from the popular restaurants of La Caleta in one direction and the Playa Del Duque beach in the other along the beach walkway that goes all the way to Los Cristianos.

winter sun in tenerife

The sandstone turrets and tropical decor are all a reminder of Tenerife’s proximity to North Africa. The hotel boasts two pools, one heated and one salt water, and there is a pool restaurant where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast or a meal. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with direct access to the seafront promenade.

winter sun in tenerife

For more information on the Sheraton La Caleta Resort and Spa, have a look here.

Anthelia Hotel Iberostar

ibero star costa adeje

The comfortable Iberostar Selection Anthelia Hotel is close to the Costa Adeje city centre, and with direct beachfront access to Fañabe Beach, it’s a great choice for a relaxing holiday.

Upmarket shopping at the Plaza del Duque is a two-minute walk, boat trips from Puerto Colón harbour can be reached in five minutes on foot, and two golf courses are within an eight-minute drive.

It was opened in 1999 and it has 3 pools and rooms with balconies and ocean views.

winter sun in tenerife

The lobby is simply amazing, with romanesque columns, mirrored marble floors, water fountains and elegant antique-style furnishings. Sliding glass doors lead to the back area of the hotel, where you will find the spa, beach access, the pools and restaurants.

costa adeje
winter sun in tenerife
winter sun in tenerife

Iberostar Selection Anthelia Hotel Costa Adeje offers buffet meals (including breakfast ) served every day in the Zeus restaurant, while the Poseidon Restaurant offers gourmet cuisine and the Portofino specializes in Italian dishes. There are also 2 poolside bars. You can enjoy music in the lounge bar and the disco bar has a range of snacks and refreshing drinks.

And for more information on the Iberostar Selection Anthelia Hotel, have a look here

Yucca Park Aparthotel

Yucca Adeje

If you prefer to have a self-catering apartment then you might want to consider the Yucca Park Aparthotel, which is located right in the centre of Costa Adeje, just 300m from the beach and within close proximity to a large number of bars and restaurants.

winter sun in tenerife

Each apartment has a dining-living room with a TV, and bed linen and towels are provided. All apartments have a kitchen equipped with an oven, toaster and an electric kettle. WiFi is available by the pool area.

Yucca Costa Adeje
winter sun in tenerife

The pictures above are of the 2 bedroom apartment with pool view, which was very comfortable and spacious and the terrace was perfect for relaxing! The duplex apartment is also very spacious but I would be wary of booking this is you are traveling with small children or elderly people as the stairs are a bit tricky!

Alternatively, if you’re looking to stay in a different area of the island, maybe the link below will help!

Booking.com

With this cold January weather, today is the perfect day to plan your next holiday in Europe. Book your flights, accommodation, activities and tours at the best price.  If you can go at short notice then you can get some great last minute deals so you can travel more and spend less!  What’s not to love! Book now!