Tenerife is an ideal winter destination due to its mild, subtropical climate, offering warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine when much of Europe is cold. Even in winter, daytime temperatures hover around 20°C, making it the perfect short-haul destination for winter beach relaxation.
However, there is much more to Tenerife than the beach, which I discovered when I visited recently. From historical towns, villages and UNESCO heritage sites, to adventures on the water and in Mount Teide National Park, the diverse landscape of Tenerife provides incredible experiences for those wanting to explore!
Visit Teide National Park for Sunset
Watching the sunset and stargazing in Mount Teide National Park is a breathtaking experience, offering some of the most spectacular natural sights Tenerife has to offer.
As the sun begins to set, the sky over the grey and silver volcanic landscape transforms into an array of vibrant colours- golds, oranges, pinks, and purple hues stretch across the horizon, with the sea glistening in the distance. It's the perfect place to set up a private picnic, with views over the ancient lava fields and the rugged peaks of Mount Teide, to enjoy champagne whilst the day comes to a close.
![Woman on picnic blanket at Teide National Park for Sunset]()
Teide National Park for Sunset
![View of the sunset over the rocky ground of Teide National Park]()
Sunset at Teide National Park
As darkness descends, the park becomes a prime stargazing spot, renowned worldwide for its clear, unpolluted skies. Mount Teide's high altitude and remote location away from city lights create ideal conditions for observing constellations, planets, and distant galaxies. With the help of our guide, we explored the cosmos through a telescope and learned more about the stars, planets, and myths tied to the constellations visible in the northern hemisphere.
In this internationally recognised Starlight Reserve, the Milky Way can often be seen in stunning detail, however, on the evening we visited, the moon was so bright that its natural light prevented us from seeing Earth's galaxy. But after initially concentrating on the stars, we moved the telescope to the moon, to get the most incredible view of craters and ridges of the moonscape.
Go Whale Watching
As an animal and nature lover, seeing pilot whales in the wild was a really special experience. Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for pilot whale and dolphin watching, thanks to its warm Atlantic waters and abundant marine life. The area between Tenerife and the neighbouring island of La Gomera, known as the Strait of La Gomera, is a permanent home to a colony of short-finned pilot whales.
Our journey began with a boat tour from Los Gigantes, and after around 40 minutes, we were in deeper waters. As the boat slowed, we caught our first glimpse of a pod of whales and before we knew it, these sociable creatures were swimming gracefully alongside our boat, giving us a rare glimpse into their world. It was an emotional, awe-inspiring and magical moment!
Our tour also included insightful commentary on the whale's behaviour and their importance to the ecosystem, making the encounter both thrilling and educational.
And, just when we thought the experience couldn't get any better, as we returned to the shore, a group of bottlenose dolphins appeared in the water, with two curious babies, who were not shy about coming closer to the boat!
Our tour also included insightful commentary on the whale's behaviour and their importance to the ecosystem, making the encounter both thrilling and educational.
And, just when we thought the experience couldn't get any better, as we returned to the shore, a group of bottlenose dolphins appeared in the water, with two curious babies, who were not shy about coming closer to the boat!
Whale watching on boat
Spend a Day at San Cristóbal de La Laguna
A day in La Laguna feels like a journey through history and culture. Why not slowly stroll through the UNESCO-listed old town, where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture full of colour evoke the city's rich past? Don't forget to look up at the traditional wooden balconies which adorn the historic buildings - they are a stunning blend of Canarian craftsmanship and colonial architecture.
Enjoy a coffee at a quaint café in Plaza del Adelantado, surrounded by tropical palm trees, or sit and soak up the atmosphere as the world goes by at a pavement café along the narrow streets.
![Yellow building with palm tree]()
La Laguna UNESCO Heritage Site
![Four people near old buildings in La Laguna]()
Group in La Laguna
But, to get a true insight into the city and its history, I would recommend hiring a local tour guide so that together you can explore the Cathedral of La Laguna, local markets and historical casas. As the former capital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna also hosts plenty of vibrant events such as the Romería de San Benito, Carnival celebrations, and the Noche en Blanco festival, blending Canarian tradition, music, art, and colourful parades throughout the historic streets.
See the Volcanic Pools of Garachico
Garachico is a town rich in history and natural beauty. Once the island's main port, Garachico was partially destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706, leaving behind unique lava-formed natural pools, which are now one of its main attractions.
Stroll through cobblestone streets and vibrant squares, to experience a relaxed Canarian atmosphere. However, my top recommendation is a visit to the volcanic pools at Garachico, known as El Caletón - a striking natural feature formed by the eruption. When lava flowed into the Atlantic Ocean, it cooled and solidified, creating a series of unique rock pools.
![Walking in the lava rocks of Garachico]()
Walking in Garachico
![Selfie with the volcanic formations of Garachico]()
Garachico
Step Back in Time at La Orotava
La Orotava is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and ornate mansions, with stunning wooden balconies that showcase exquisite Canarian craftsmanship. My favourite experience in Orotava was our visit to Casa de los Balcones - a 17th-century mansion. The house is a cultural gem, offering its visitors a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
La Orotava
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved rooms filled with period furniture, handmade lace, and local crafts, as well as a lush courtyard. The museum showcases traditional Canarian life, with displays on embroidery, weaving, and other regional arts. Casa de los Balcones is not only an architectural treasure but also a cultural hub preserving the island's heritage for future generations.
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