Suggested itineraries would include a 5 mile walk along the promenade from Los Cristianos to La Caleta. This is mostly paved and passes along the sea front and all the cafes, restaurants and bars. At La Caleta, a bus can be boarded for the return trip.
Any visit to Tenerife would be incomplete without a trip to Mount Teide. From San Miguel, the twisting road winds up through the beautiful village of Vilaflor (town of flowers) and on to the moon-like landscape around the mountain, a cable car is available for those not inclined (or able) to take to steep walk. From the top of the cablecar there is a further climb to the summit—not to be undertaken in windy conditions. By the top cablecar station is a little café where they serve a heart-warming drink of hot chocolate and rum—worth the trip for that alone!
Another trip not to be missed is to Masca, past Los Cristianos and Los Gigantes, on the west coast, high up into the mountains. There is the most spectacular scenery, but great care must be taken on the drive there—the roads are very steep and very twisty. When we were there, the heavens opened and our planned picnic was eaten sitting in the car. However, the downpour relented to give us a chance to stroll into the village, although the clouds hung low over the mountain tops. This, in fact, made for very atmospheric and dramatic scenery.
Just 12kms away is the most beautiful windsurfing beach at El Medano, and close by the protected area of "red mountain".
We took a trip to the capital, Santa Cruz, but rather than take the car in, we drove as far as the coastal town of Candelaria, about 10 miles short from where we took a bus. But not before exploring this very pleasant town with more Spanish feel than the brash resorts round Las Americas. If considering a coastal holiday in Tenerife without the crowds, this would seem a good choice. Whilst we only saw one hotel there appeared to be plenty of apartments.
The purpose of visiting Santa Cruz was to see the Carnival. However, due to a tremendous overnight storm the proceedings were cancelled. Pity – but we took advantage to stroll around the capital taking in several of the picturesque squares and having a look at the harbour where the cruise liners call.
From journal Tenerife without the crowds