Atlantic Isles and Canaries

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife’s north shore is separated from the south by rugged mountains, creating a rain shadow. The majority of the islands most recent resorts are found in the sere and parched south shore. Take a deep breath. Can you smell bananas or pineapples? They are grown on the plantations which are just a short ride away from the beautiful beach resorts and lively town centre of the island.

Highlights

BOTANICAL GARDENS
Founded 1788, the gardens are home to a staggering range of plants and trees from around the world.

HUMBOLDT'S BELVEDERE
Over 200 years ago, the naturalist Humboldt described the view from this lookout as the loveliest prospect of his travels.

LAS CANADAS NATIONAL PARK
Mt Teide rises 12,300 feet (3718m) from the floor of a volcanic crater that is over 29 miles (47km) in circumference.

OROTAVA VALLEY
The lush Orotava Valley is considered ‘the garden of Tenerife’. Orotava is one of the island’s oldest settlements.

PUERTO DE LA CRUZ
This town on the northwest shore has been Tenerife’s premier family resort since the turn of the 19th century.

PYRAMIDS OF GUIMAR
The step pyramids of the Guimar Valley pose a mystery to archaeologists. Does their resemblance to Aztec pyramids prove a link between the New World and ancient Egypt?