TANTALISING TENERIFE

If you think Tenerife is just bars, booze and beaches, it’s time to think again! There’s a whole other side to this stunning Spanish island, and there’s not a sunburned Brit in sight.

• Whale watching off the south-west coast 

Tenerife is considered one of the best places in Europe to spot whales and dolphins in the wild. Up two 21 different species live here, from the giant blue whale, to the killer whale. There is even a resident pod of pilot whales living close to the coast, so your chance of seeing one of these magnificent mammals is said to be almost guaranteed! For more information on the different sightseeing cruises available, visit: www.webtenerife.co.uk.

• Wander through a lava tube

 Cueva del Viento (Cave of the Wind) is a fascinating labyrinth of underground tunnels, created when Pico Viejo volcano erupted, forcing rivers of molten rock through the bedrock. Today you can walk through the tunnels, where unique subterranean flora and fauna flourish.

• Chill out and recharge

Tenerife is a volcanic island, which locals believe creates healing energy. Harness the geothermal power; try a massage with hot volcano stones, Canarian bath with aloe vera, or a bodywrap with detoxifying volcanic earth.

• Party all night

Visit the annual Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, when a quarter of a million partygoers kick off a three-week extravaganza of costumes, music, dancing and parades. Be warned: make sure you get plenty of sleep before you leave, because you won’t be getting much once you’re there.

• Admire the Teide National Park 

Tenerife’s volcanic core gives it a unique landscape. In fact, the parched, rocky surface is so similar to that of Mars, the space rover trained there before arriving on the red planet to search for extra-terrestrial life. Mount Teide is the highest peak in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can catch a cable car up to several scenic viewing points.

So, if you’re looking for some winter sun this year, book a trip to the Canary Islands and discover the real Tenerife!

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