If you missed the ‘Irish Summer’, (those few days last week), and you’re looking sadly out the window at the rain, may we suggest a trip to one of the best sunspots Her.ie has ever visited? Introducing Tenerife…
The largest of the seven Canary Islands, Tenerife and its sister islands like Gran Canaria and Lanzarote welcome thousands of Irish visitors every year, pale-faced Paddys in search of fun and frolics in the sun.
If you’re one of those who likes to spend the day by the beach and the night on the town, Tenerife won’t let you down. By day, enjoy miles and miles of beautiful sandy beaches, flanked by trendy bars and tasty eateries that won’t hit you hard on the pocket. By night, you’ll be invited to enjoy some of the best nightlife the Spanish Isles have to offer, particularly in the party hotspot of Playa de Las Americas.
However, if you like to get a little more from your holidays in terms of sight-seeing and historical tours, don’t make the mistake of writing off the Canary Islands, Tenerife in particular, as there is so much more on offer.
El Tiede is a port of call for many tourists. This spectacular sight is the third largest volcano in the world, and a World Heritage Site. With a summit of over 12,000 ft, you’ll feel as though you’re climbing up to meet the gods. The moonscape is home to unique flora and fauna, and you might even spot some local lizards while you’re on your visit too. And don’t worry if you’re not in a climbing mood, a cable car will take you where you need to go to enjoy the view.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the island, and here you can visit the architectural symbol of the Canary Islands, the Auditorio de Tenerife. While you’re on the road, you should also visit the beautiful town of La Laguna, the historical centre of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. La Laguna was the historical capital of Tenerife, and a stroll through the narrow streets is like a step back in time.
For the adventurous travellers, there are plenty of options if you want to get the adrenaline flowing on your stay. Bottle nosed dolphins, minke and sperm whale occupy and pass through the warm waters between Tenerife’s west coast and neighbouring La Gomera, making Tenerife one of the best places in the world to watch them in their natural habitat, so plan a boat trip to see them in action.
Splash to your hearts content in the awesome Siam Park, one of the best waterparks in Europe. The 28m drop down the Tower of Power is one for the brave… you have been warned! Loro Park, then, is one for the animal lovers. This amazing park in Puerto de la Cruz boasts tigers, jaguars, gorillas and chimpanzees, to name but a few, and shows throughout the day like dolphin and sea lion shows. Oh, and killer whales. No big deal.
When your action-packed or relaxing and reviving day is done, hit the tiles in Playa de Las Americas for a town that wants you to dance all night long. The island is a favourite of many celebrities too, so you never know who you might run in to at the bar…
Thinking of a trip to Tenerife? For the best offers for families, couples or friends, visit www.thomascook.ie or call on 01 514 0307
