Discover Tenerife’s famed beaches and volcanic landscapes for yourself with a hire car. Get acquainted with the sun-baked island’s natural wonders before tracking down its hidden jewels. A hire car is the perfect way to see this island - experience the magical Santa Cruz carnival, go stargazing at Spain’s highest peak and amble past pastel-hued houses in La Laguna.
The beauty of beaches
The blazing sun dancing above turquoise waters, soft sand trickling between your toes, palm trees swaying gently in the wind – explore Tenerife’s beaches and you’ll feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a little slice of paradise. Pack your hire car with snorkels, a good book and buckets and spades then set off to track down the best stretches of sand on the island.
Wander the mile-long golden beach at Playa de las Teresitas, hidden away in a cove beneath the Anaga Mountains. Take a refreshing dip in the azure waters, enjoy a game of volleyball or simply lay back and bask in the sunshine.
Juxtapose this with a trip to Playa Tejita, a mesmerising stretch composed of black sand nestled by Montaña Roja. Park along Médano-Los Abrigos Road and stroll down to the shore with your surfboard – this windy spot has the perfect conditions for riding the epic Atlantic waves.
The Colonial capital
You’ll be charmed by the island’s former capital, La Laguna, as soon as you step out of the car. Walk along the cobbled streets of this ancient city, past a parade of pastel-hued houses, in the shadow of impressive colonial architecture.
Stop by Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción and delight in the Gothic detailing of this 15th century church. It’s worth heading inside to climb the tower – from the top, you can enjoy breath-taking views of La Laguna. Make your way out into the maze of backstreets and track down Guaydil, nestled in the shadows of the town’s cathedral. Here you can sample authentic dishes, ranging from tasty fried fish balls to melt-in-the-mouth ribs.
Viva volcanos
Enjoy a change of pace when you venture inland to see the magnificent Mount Teide up close, Spain’s tallest peak that dominates the centre of the island. Drive through Teide National Park for a memorable experience - begin at the sunny coastline and make your way above the clouds until you reach the remarkable lunar landscape where the volcano presides.
The road can only take you so far though. Park up and hike the rest of the way to the summit. Gaze out across the horizon and experience ravishing panoramic vistas across the island and beyond.
From lunar to lush
Seek out more adventures among the Anaga Mountains, the greenest part of Tenerife. The crowds fade away in this north-east pocket of the island, leaving you to enjoy the tranquil scenery all to yourself.
Pull on your hiking boots, pack a picnic and set off on an expedition through the lush landscape – there are plenty of beauty spots to pause at along the way. Journey through the clouds and make a beeline for Llano de los Loros viewpoint for epic vistas of the glittering sea.
From the endless coastline to the lunar landscape, hire a car from Tenerife Airport and you can throw yourself into the ever-changing and diverse terrain of this beautiful Canary Island.