7 reasons to leave your lounger in Tenerife
Tenerife needs very little introduction. It has long attracted people from January to December thanks to its glorious sunshine, ambient temperatures, and multitude of resorts, hotels and facilities. What you may not know is the array of things to do that really helps you get under the skin of Tenerife, and out and about in its incredible landscape.
7 reasons to leave your lounger in Tenerife
Whatever kind of holiday you're enjoying in Tenerife, be it a winter sun break, and independent trip or an all inclusive escape with First Choice* or similar, Tenerife has so much to see and do for anyone willing to leave their lounger and get stuck in to the island's activities, excursions, and cultural offerings. Read on for our pick of the best things to do in Tenerife from hiking in Teide National Park to dolphin spotting and sea kayaking.
1. Explore Teide National Park
The magnificent Teide National Park seems to have an almost magnetic quality that pulls visitors back again and again. This volcanic park, with Spain's highest peak - Mount Teide - at its heart, is a playground for hikers, cyclists, geologists, photographers, stargazers, and those looking to hit the heights and drink in the view.
Jump on the cable car some 2,356 metres (7,729 ft) up which, in eight minutes, takes you to the top station at 3,555 metres (11,663 ft). From here, there's a short but challenging walk to the mountain's crater, but if you're feeling fit, you could of course walk all the way from the base station to the summit on your own two legs.
2. Take a boat trip
As Tenerife is just one of seven islands in the Canaries, you won't struggle when it comes to finding and booking a memorable boat trip. From short rides and half or full day excursions, to sunset cruises, fishing tours, and more, the ocean is yours for the taking when you visit Tenerife.
A great option is to hop onboard a catamaran for a dolphin and whale watching trip where you're more than likely to get up close to both Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins, as well as curious pilot whales. Trips depart from Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón and Los Gigantes all year round.
3. Fly through the trees at the Forestal Park
Test those nerves while getting physical at Tenerife's largest ziplining park. Located near El Rosario in Las Lagunetas to the north of the island, the Forestal Park is full of thrills and adventures for every age. There are two courses to choose from plus the mandatory Briefing course to help you get your bearings and learn what clips into where. The Family course is easy going, and can be completed within two hours, while the Sport course is a little more intense with black level activities which take you high into the treetops, 30 metres up, although there are bypass routes for each of the black level options.
A session at the Forestal Park is not to be missed, if not for the island's longest zip line or scaling the vertical ladders and navigating the spider's web jumps, for the sheer joy of walking among the tips of this magnificent forest.
4. Make a splash at Siam Park
Siam Park is one Europe's largest water parks, crammed full of things to do for all ages making it an essential day trip. There are rides, rivers, and rapids plus play areas for younger children, and plenty of space to simply kick back and soak up the sun. Don't miss Sea Lion Island with its playful residents, and try the sensory Volcano ride or exceptional Tower of Power slide for a heart-pumping experience.
A relatively new addition to Siam Park is the collection of three all inclusive cabanas, which you can book for the duration of your visit. Each includes, among other things, showers, hammocks, and a private space to relax - ideal for families, groups and couples.
5. Take the plunge paragliding
Tenerife's dramatic scenery and diverse landscape make it a dream destination for paragliders. Everything from the run-and-jump of take off to the mid-air meandering and unrivalled views ensure it's something truly special that you won't forget or even regret leaving your lounger for.
And the best bit? You don't actually need to be an expert paraglider to get involved: Tenerife has countless paragliding centres dotted around the island offering everything from advice and equipment to a strap-on-instructor who will do all the hard work for you.
6. Discover historic towns & hilltop villages of the north
Tenerife's climate makes it the perfect place to grow everything from bananas to vineyards, and if you head to the north you'll see a very different side to this Canary island. Whether you're wine tasting in La Matanza, enjoying the vibrant annual carnival in Santa Cruz, spying the Unesco gems in La Laguna, or staring in awe at rugged views of Roque Negro or Taganana in the Anaga Mountains, you haven't really got to grips with Tenerife until you discover the historic towns and hilltop villages of the north.
7. Give sea kayaking a go
There's no shortage of sports and activities to try in Tenerife, from diving and golfing, to sailing and mountain biking however, sea kayaking is a real winner. Being both good for you and great fun is one thing but you also gain a different perspective and appreciation of the island, seeing Tenerife's ever changing coastline, from rocky formation to sandy beaches, from the water. You'll bob atop the clear and inviting sea, in and out of coves, bays and caves, and be joined, if you're lucky, by the odd passing dolphin.
If you fancy exploring Tenerife's many attractions or giving some of the activities a go, then why not pair it with an all inclusive break from First Choice? Make your bed a stylish and comfy one with all the trimmings, whatever your budget. First Choice has holidays departing direct from airports across the UK, be it Aberdeen or Bournemouth. Remember, you can keep an eye on Tenerife's weather forecast, and see when's best to go for you as well.
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