GAY FRIENDLY TENERIFE
Travel solutions with itineraries to discover all the wonders of this destination, places not to be missed, tips about where to sleep and what to eat, and above all many small special tips to enjoy your journey !
Welcome to Tenerife, the Spanish island in the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The largest of the Canary Islands with a wide range of unique experiences, all to try.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this island at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
Day 1 - Playa de Las Americas, Acantilados de los Gigantes, Valle di Masca & Faro de Punta Teno - Google Maps
Day 2 - Garachico, Icos de lo Vinos, Cueva del Viento, La Orotava & Puerto de la Cruz - Google Maps
Day 3 - La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife & Candelaria - Google Maps
Day 4 - Escursione al Teide (Cañadas del Teide, Roques de García, Teleferico, Mirador de Chipeque) - Google Maps
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
Click'n'Go - Click on the places to find them on the Map
WHAT TO SEE in TENERIFE?
10 THINGS TO SEE in TENERIFE
Teide National Park
With its 3,718 meters, Teide is the highest peak in Spain and is one of the more than 400 volcanoes on the island, declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. You can reach the top in two ways: on foot (but keep in mind that it takes about 5 hours of walking, one way!), Or more comfortably by cable car up to Pico del Teide (needless to say we chose the latter option ). A maximum of two hundred visitors can go up each day, so we advise you to book your permission to go up in advance on the official page of the Park by clicking on this link (remember to bring your identity card with you). Inside the park do not miss the various viewpoints, the Teide Astronomical Observatory from which you can admire the starry sky and the various Roques de Garcia, solidified lava pinnacles (the most famous is the Roque Cinchado).
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The capital of the island with its colorful streets, museums, art galleries and street art works. Don't miss the picturesque Nuestra Señora de África market and Calatrava's auditorium in Tenerife, vaguely resembling the Sydney Opera House. Other things to see in Santa Cruz are: Plaza España, the beating heart of the city, Calle Castillo, the main shopping street, the Museo della Naturaleza y El Hombre, the TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, the Palmetum (a botanical garden built on a former landfill) and finally the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción.
Milenary Dragon
In Tenerife, don't miss one of the island's symbols, the Millennial Dragon Treea in the Icod de los Vinos Botanical Park, a very special plant that is thought to be around 800-1000 years old. If you do not want to pay the entrance fee to the park, the tree is also visible from the outside.
Acantilados de Los Gigantes
The highest cliffs in Spain, with black rock walls reaching 600 meters high. The best way to admire them is from the sea with a boat trip.
Arco de Tajao
One of the most instagrammable places in Tenerife, a stone arch about 10 meters high.
Natural Pools
One of the best things to do in Tenerife is a swim in one of the many natural pools on the island. Among the best known is that of Jover, near La Laguna, and that of Bajamar.
La Laguna
One of the prettiest cities on the island of Tenerife (the full name of the city is San Cristobal de la Laguna) with its pastel-colored historic center and the liveliest nightlife (marcha) on the island. Declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco because it was a model for many of the colonial cities of the Americas. Not to be missed: Calle San Augustín, La Catedral and the Convento de Santa Clara.
Güimar Archaeological Site
Did you know that there are pyramids in Tenerife? These are 6 volcanic rock pyramids whose origin is still shrouded in mystery. The official theory says that these are stone piles made in the 19th century, when all these lands were reclaimed. However, there are other versions that claim these constructions are ancient temples.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Candelaria
The patroness of the Canary Islands is the Virgen de la Candelaria (also known as the Black Madonna), and her image is venerated in the basilica of the same name in the fishing village of Candelaria.
Punta de Teno Lighthouse
At the westernmost tip of Tenerife is one of the seven lighthouses on the island. The road to get there is closed on weekends and public holidays.
WHAT TO DO in TENERIFE
Trekking in Anaga Rural Park
One of the best places to go trekking in Tenerife. Don't miss the famous path known as "Bosque Encantado" or "El Pijaral". However, it is necessary to ask for permission in advance.
Enjoying the Sun on the Beaches
Do you want a dip in the sea? Although the true soul of Tenerife lies inland, there are some beaches that are worth a visit. Among those we recommend: Playa de la Tejita, Playa de las Teresitas, El Bollullo, Playa Jardín and Playa de Benijo.
Go Surfing
Surf lovers? No problem, Tenerife is the one for you. The perfect months are October to March. Among the most recommended areas and beaches: El Charco, Los Dos Hermanos and Las Ámericas for experienced surfers, while El Socorro or La Tejita are suitable for all levels.
Taste a Glass of Malvasia
For a long time the main source of income on the island, viticulture is still important to the island today. Don't miss a visit to a winery and try an excellent glass of Malvasía.
Having Fun at Siam Park Aquatic Park
Even if we are not fans of water parks, Siam Park is a must in Tenerife, especially if you are traveling with children. Inspired by Thailand, just as the name suggests, it has loads of pools, slides and water features.
Take a Jump at Lago Martiánez
As an alternative to the water park, you can take a dip at Lago Martiánez. A set of 7 swimming pools with sea water that combines water with the architecture of the artist César Manrique.
Whale & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
In Los Cristianos, take a boat ride to see whales and dolphins. The marine area south of Tenerife is a favorite place for cetaceans for its warm, deep waters and abundance of food.
Visit the Cueva del Viento
Not far from the Drago Milenario, you cannot miss the Cueva del Viento, one of the largest volcanic tubes in the world (the largest in Europe).
Eating in a Guanchinche
Enjoy the gastronomy of Tenerife in one of the many Guanchinche, the typical places in the north of the island, where you can taste the many local specialties.
Stargazing / See the Stars
The island of Tenerife is the ideal place to observe the universe. Together with Hawaii and Chile it is in fact one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky. There are many excursions that allow you to contemplate the Milky Way, its planets and stars. One of the best places for astronomical tourism is the Cañadas del Teide National Park.
BEST EVENTS in TENERIFE
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
A good time to visit Tenerife is during its famous carnival when the streets are filled with people, parades and costumes. Each year a different theme is chosen and the queen of the year is elected.
MUECA Street Art Festival (usually in May)
The Puerto de la Cruz International Street Art Festival, known as Mueca, has become an international reference point for the shows offered. For more info www.festivalmueca.com
Festa della Candelaria
A popular festival in honor of the Virgin of Candelaria. It is celebrated twice a year: on February 2 in the town of Candelaria and on August 14 in the entire Canary archipelago.
WHERE TO STAY in TENERIFE?
BEST LGBT FRIENDLY HOTELS, VILLAS & APARTMENTS in TENERIFE
Arona (South Tenerife) - Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro ** (Rural hotel with the possibility of sleeping in a BUBBLE!)
Alcalá (West Tenerife) - Red Level Gran Melia Palacio De Isora (Adults Only) *****
Playa de las Américas (South Tenerife) - Hotel Gala Tenerife ****
Garachico (North-West Tenerife) - Boutique Hotel San Roque ****
Playa de las Américas (South Tenerife) - H10 Conquistador ****
Playa de las Américas (South Tenerife) - Hotel Troya ****
Puerto de la Cruz (North Tenerife) - Hotel Botánico And The Oriental Spa Garden ****
Acantilados de Los Gigantes (South-West Tenerife) - Royal Sun Hotel ****
Costa Adeje (South-West Tenerife) - Hotel Riu Buenavista ****
Puerto de la Cruz (North Tenerife) - 4Dreams Hotel Chimisay ***
WHERE TO EAT in TENERIFE?
BEST TYPICAL RESTAURANTS of TENERIFE Quality / Price
Guachinche
The "Guachinche" Canario is the typical inn you will find on the island, where you can eat and drink in an environment similar to our Italian farmhouses. Originally the word Guachinche meant the Taverns of Tenerife, where wine and food were served. In Gran Canaria, on the other hand, they are called Bochinche.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife - €€ - Cervecería Tacoa Fábrica
Santa Cruz de Tenerife - €€ - Guachinche la Cueva de Casiano
Zona Aeropuerto Tenerife Sur - €€ - Guachinche El Cordero (for Eating in a Banana Grove - Fantastic Experience!)
Teide - €€ - Bodegón Campestre
Arona - € - Restaurante la Fabrika
Arona - €€ - Asador La Camella
Garacicho - €€ - Arístides
Adeje - €€ - Bodegón Damary
La Orotava - €€ - Guachinche Romance
La Orotava - €€ - Guachinche los Gomez
Puerto de la Cruz - €€ - Mesón los Gemelos
Puerto de la Cruz - €€ - Bodegón el Barranquillo
Buenavista del Norte (North-West) - €€ - Bodegón Patamero
Zona Aeropuerto Tenerife North - €€ - Restaurante los Braseritos
Zona Aeropuerto Tenerife North - €€ - Guachinche el Fogon
WHAT TO EAT in TENERIFE and CANARY ISLANDS?
BEST TYPICAL DISHES of TENERIFE and CANARY ISLANDS
Papas Arrugadas con Mojo
The most common dish of the Canaries, are "shriveled" potatoes with salt and a spicy sauce with coriander, basil or chilli known as Mojo
Pimientos de Padrón
A variety of peppers, usually served as a tapas.
Churros de Pescado
Fried fish in batter.
Croquetas Caseras
Fried meatballs with béchamel and ham inside.
Chopitos
Fried cuttlefish.
Conejo al Salmorejo
Marinated rabbit accompanied by a cold tomato soup (Salmorejo).
Escaldón de Gofio
Also called "Pan de los Canarios", it is a very traditional mix of roasted cereals.
Queso Asado
Grilled cheese accompanied by sauces.
TRAVEL TIPS about TENERIFE by World Mappers
One of the villages that most impressed us is the picturesque village of Garachico, very small but full of magic. Whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and the stunning Caletón de Garachico, a natural pool perfect for a swim.
Our favorite beach in Tenerife is Playa Tejita. It is undoubtedly a must-see and is one of the largest beaches on the island. From the beach you have an impressive view of the Montaña Roja volcano (for those who love trekking, from the top of the volcano the view is fantastic!)
One of the most curious things to see in Tenerife is found in the Jardin Social La Quinta. It is a huge statue of a "giant", full of plants and flowers.
For us who love Street Art madly, a must-see is Puerto de la Cruz, where there are many murals that decorate the streets. You can find more information here.
Another very beautiful city to visit in Tenerife is La Orotava, with its majestic old town, much declared a Heritage de la Humanidad. Don't miss the so-called "Casa de los Balcones".
Tenerife is a hiker's paradise with lots of trails. Without a doubt one of the valleys not to be missed is the Valle di Masca. Here you will find the magical village of Masca, with its small houses and cobbled streets, examples of rural architecture in Tenerife.
If you have time, we recommend an excursion to the nearby island of La Gomera. Just take a ferry which will drop you off on the second smallest island of the Canary Islands in about an hour. The advice is to rent a car or join a local tour to explore the best places to see on the island.
Another option is to visit the island of El Hierro, the smallest island in the Canaries. Do not miss the Charco Azul, the Mirador de la Peña, the Marine Reserve of the Mar de Las Calmas and finally the famous La Sabina tree of El Hierro.
Finally, if you are not yet tired of the wonders that the Canaries can offer, enjoy an excursion to the island of La Palma, the Bonita island. Its unspoiled natural landscapes, paths and views make it a quiet island that is still not very touristy.
Most BEAUTIFUL PANORAMIC VIEWS of TENERIFE
Enjoy the whole area from one of its fantastic Viewpoints. Our favorites are:
Mirador de Chipeque (North) (our favorite)
Located along the road from La Laguna to Mount Teide, from here you will admire the silhouette of Mount Teide with its magical sea of clouds.
Mirador de Humboldt (North)
In the municipality of La Orotava where it is possible to admire the valley below and its banana cultivation.
Mirador de El Lance (North)
In the municipality of Los Realejos where it is possible to admire the incredible views of the municipalities of Los Realejos and La Orotava and the area of the north-eastern coast of the island.
Mirador del Emigrante (Noth-West)
In the municipality of Garachico where you will have a splendid view of the town, its beach and natural pools.
Mirador de Punta de Teno (Noth-West)
In the municipality of Buneavista del Norte, in the Teno Rural Park. From here you will admire the fantastic cliffs of Los Gigantes and the entire north coast of the island.
Mirador de Cherfe (Noth-West)
In the Teno Rural Park, which connects the municipality of Buenavista del Norte and Santiago del Teide. Get ready to observe the Barranco de Masca, the Teno mountains, Mount Teide and even the islands of La Gomera and La Palma.
Mirador de Pico Viejo (Centre)
The Pico Viejo viewpoint is located on top of Mount Teide. From here you will have a spectacular view from the highest mountain on the island of Tenerife. You will see the crater of the Pico Viejo del Teide, the Llanos de Ucanca, the Roques de García and the Degollada de Guajara. If the sky is clear, you can enjoy incredible views of the islands of La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. Important: to go up, you must have a permit and take the cable car.
Mirador de Archipenque (South)
In the coastal area of the municipality of Santiago del Teide, where you can observe the incredible views of Los Acantilados de los Gigantes and the coastal town of Puerto Santiago.
Mirador de Montaña Amarilla (South)
In the coastal area of the municipality of San Miguel de Abona. From this vantage point you can enjoy incredible views of the Montaña Amarilla, formed by a series of perfectly aligned volcanoes.
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