The Spanish island of Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. Tenerife is said to have the lowest temperature ‘difference’ between summer and winter for anywhere in the world. Even with the occasional rain there is no specific ‘rainy season’ making Tenerife the perfect year round destination for families.
Teide National Park
The extinct volcano of Mount Teide is accessible either by foot or by cable car that will carry you almost to the very summit. From the peak, on a clear day, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the other Canary Islands of Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. At a staggering 3.718 metres tall, Mount Teide is the highest mountain in the whole of Spain and is the Canary Island’s most visited tourist attraction.
Diving
The sea around Tenerife drops to dramatic depths, with caves and ocean wildlife that have made the island one of the best places in the world for diving where sightings of stingrays, tuna and barracuda are amongst the natural wonders to be seen. Most of the dive operators offer courses from beginner to expert, and are concentrated on the west coast in Los Gigantes, Playa San Juan and Las Galletas.
Family attractions
Loro Parque is one of the most popular places for a family day out with hundreds of parrots, an aquarium, sea lion and dolphin shows and the world’s largest Penguinarium. To cool down, take your family to the AquaPark near Playa de las Americas which has dolphin shows along with an amazing range of waters rides, pools, slides and sunbathing areas.
Shopping
Tenerife’s capital city Santa Cruz is the shopping mecca of the island and home to all the best Spanish shops. Aside from the shops, it is a quaint port town with charming character and well worth spending the day there. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes!
Dolphin boat trip
Take a boat trip whale and dolphin watching. Go from Puerto Colon with Catamaran Eden in search of dolphins and pilot whales. You may get a chance to do some snorkelling in a secluded bay.
Guimar Pyramids
The Valley of Guimar in the south of the island is where the six mysterious step pyramids – similar to those found in Mexico and Peru – were discovered. The Guimar Pyramids are built from angular blocks quarried from lava flows.
Beaches
Tenerife’s finest beaches can be found around the major tourist resorts of Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje on the south coast. Several of these have been awarded the European Blue Flag in recognition of the cleanliness of their sand and sea.
Family travel insurance essential!
If you want to really enjoy your family winter sun holiday in Tenerife, don’t forget to take out your cheap family travel insurance as soon as you book your trip.
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