There is so much to experience in Tenerife, including beautiful natural landscapes and cultural events, but if you are looking for a more adventurous time on the island look no further than our guide to alternative things to do in Tenerife.
Auditorio de Tenerife
Image Credit: Carlos Lopez Echeto Marrero (flickr.com)
Built in 2003 and regarded as one of the finest modern buildings within the Canary Islands, the Auditorio de Tenerife is a futuristic landmark. The magnificent structure sits just before the Atlantic Ocean in the southern and popular port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, entertaining visitors both from abroad and locally with fantastic events all year round. Not only an architectural symbol of the town and island but also the home to the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra (Orquesta Sinfonica de Tenerife), it accommodates a number of events every month such as Atlantic Jazz, the Tenerife Opera Festival and World Music. So if you fancy experiencing something a little more cultural on your Tenerife holidays, then look no further than an awe-inspiring trip to Auditorio de Tenerife.
Tenerife Street Art
Image Credit: Jose Mesa (flickr.com)
One thing you may not associate Tenerife with is the extraordinary and eye-popping colour of its street art. All around the island, you can walk past a kaleidoscope of colour and artists impressions of the cultural diversity of modern Spain. There are some must-see urban street artwork pieces if you are visiting western parts of the island, such as Puerto de la Cruz, inspired by the Mueca Street Art Festival that turned the Spanish landscape into a world of unique interest. Amongst the contemporary is the more traditional, in the form of sculptures depicting historical myths and events of the island, including the mysterious and primitive Guanches race whom once inhabited Tenerife. Holidays to Costa Adeje will provide you with a wealth of historical culture and is where you can see one of the many Guanche statues on the island. This particular Mencey sculpture sits proudly at the entrance of the old town and also symbolises the division of old and new culture. However, if you want to look further afield there are a multitude of statues across Tenerife, with the nine most famous and popular standing along the seafront beside the Basilica in Candelaria.
Image credit: www.colinkirby.com
Lago Martianez
Image Credit: Daniel H. (flickr.com)
Although having access to your hotel swimming pool is the most desired option when relaxing on your cheap holiday to Tenerife, visiting the beautiful natural sea pools of Lago Martianez is a great day out for the whole family. Located in Puerto de la Cruz, with the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and the cool off-shore breeze to take the heat off from the sun, there is no better way to spend a few refreshing hours than in the pool. With access to sunbeds, food stalls and all three pools for just 5.50 Euros, Lago Martianez is a perfect destination if you are looking to relax, but also know that those around you are in safe hands when having fun. If you want to leave the complex at any time during the day you are able to come back without charge for your convenience.
Drago Milenario Tree
Image Credit: cinetech (flickr.com)
For those looking for an alternative activity that takes in the Canarian flora, visiting the Drago Milenario Tree in Parque del Drago is a must. Located on the north western coast in Icod de los Vinos, the famous ‘thousand-year-old-dragon’ tree is the main attraction and is one of the most important natural, cultural and historic symbols of the Canary Islands. Considered the oldest tree in Tenerife and standing at 16 metres tall, the iconic 150 tonne Drago attracts visitors from all over the world and is said to be the largest known on earth. The park itself is a large garden featuring common and native plants that can be found within the region, such as small dragon trees and majestic, characteristic cacti plants. There is a small entry fee of four euros for adults and 2 euros for children aged three to eight.
Hiking in the Anaga Mountains
Image Credit: Oliver Clarke (flickr.com)
Those who are looking to stretch their legs and are eager to admire the natural landscapes of Tenerife, should consider hiking around the Anaga Mountains as a great alternative activity. Many visitors to the island prefer to stay in the coastal spots when on holiday in Tenerife but the Anaga Mountains provide a unique holiday experience that couldn’t be had in the tourist areas. Located in the north east of the island, the winding trails will lead you into lush green forest surroundings whilst overlooking spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Traditional villages line the mountainous range traditional and are a fantastic offering of both natural and cultural Tenerife.
Paragliding experience
Paragliding is definitely one for the thrill seekers out there and there is no better way to capture the incredible views of the island than gliding high up in the sky. A popular activity all over the world, Tenerife is one of the top destinations for adrenaline pumping enthusiasts and for those who are looking for an alternative way to explore the island.
There are a number of companies around the island who specialise in safe and memorable paragliding experiences and most take pictures and film the whole event so you won’t miss a thing. Flights include breath-taking views such as Barranco del Infierno in Adeje and companies including Happy Fly Tenerife offer a starting price of 90 euros with a duration time of 15 to 30 minutes.
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