Think Tenerife is just for lying in a hammock in the sun? Get ready to discover an island where the landscape changes at every turn of the road. From volcanic peaks to enchanted forests, Tenerife is a natural setting full of contrasts and unforgettable experiences.

Between volcanoes and ocean

The adventure begins in the spectacular lunar landscape of the Teide National Park. A cable car ride is one of the best ways to top off the experience. A key tip: book your ticket online in advance. This will avoid long queues and give you more time to enjoy the views from over 3,500 metres above sea level.

If you're looking for a magical encounter with marine life, head to the southwest coast. Whale and dolphin spotting on the The Giants is an almost guaranteed experience. Families of pilot whales and dolphins are often spotted alongside the impressive cliffs, creating one of the most exciting moments of a holiday in Tenerife.

For lovers of hiking, the north hides a green treasure: the Anaga Rural Park. Here, the laurel forests - a prehistoric ecosystem - transport you to a fairytale world that contrasts completely with the volcanic landscape of Teide.

Beyond the sand castle: unforgettable plans with children

When the little ones get tired of making sandcastles, Tenerife offers fascinating water worlds. The natural pools of Garachico, The beaches, formed by ancient lava flows, create bathing areas protected from the waves. Its calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

Curiosity about the sea can turn into the first snorkelling adventure at Playa de Abbots. Its clear, calm waters allow you to observe shoals of colourful fish without straying too far from the shore. It is like a natural aquarium within everyone's reach.

If you're looking for a more relaxed alternative to the big water parks, at the Puerto de la Cruz you will find the impressive Martiánez Lake, designed by the artist César Manrique. More than a saltwater pool complex, it is an open-air work of art with gardens, sculptures and islands that invite you to enjoy in peace and quiet.

The authentic pulse of the island

Beyond the tourist area in the south, the real heart of Tenerife beats in its historic villages and traditional cuisine.

Strolling through San Cristóbal de La Laguna, The city, a World Heritage Site, is a journey back in time. Its pedestrian streets, colourful colonial houses and hidden courtyards reflect the cultural essence of the north of the island.

After the walk, it's time to sample the local cuisine in a guachinche. These small family-run establishments - often in garages or courtyards - serve their own wine and homemade dishes. They are the best-kept secret for enjoying typical Tenerife cuisine at incredible prices.

Among the most emblematic dishes is the ropa vieja canaria: a tasty stew of shredded meat with chickpeas, potatoes and peppers. Each recipe is different, just like at grandma's house.

And if you're looking for an unforgettable postcard, drive to the hamlet of Chew. Perched in a spectacular ravine, it seems to hang from the mountain and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island.

Free and rainy day plans

Tenerife does not have to be an expensive destination. There are unforgettable experiences that cost nothing:

• Strolling through the historic centre of La Orotava and admire its famous wooden balconies.
• Feeling the volcanic sand in the bush, as in the case of the Black Sands.
• Enjoying a film-like sunset from viewpoints such as Viewpoint of La Garañona.

What if the sky is covered with clouds? One of the most fascinating experiences is to explore the Wind Cave, one of the largest volcanic tubes in the world. This underground cave, formed by the passage of lava, requires prior reservation and offers a unique underground adventure.

For a romantic and simple plan, nothing beats a sunset by the sea. With a snack and a blanket, you'll find the perfect setting for an intimate and magical moment at any viewpoint.

Organise your perfect week in Tenerife

With so much diversity - sunny beaches in the south, green forests in the north - it's best to plan a flexible itinerary. The best way to get around the island is by hire car. This allows you to explore the volcanic landscapes, charming villages and laurel forest trails at your own pace, creating a completely personal experience.

Tenerife is not just a sun and beach destination. It is an island of contrasts, living nature and authenticity. All you need is curiosity... and a desire to explore.

In a nutshell

Tenerife is much more than a destination: it is an invitation to feel. It is waking up in front of the Atlantic and contemplating the Teide touching the sky, being surprised by dolphins dancing by the cliffs, getting lost in the magical mist of Anaga or sharing laughter in natural pools created by lava.

It is to savour a homemade wine in a hidden guachinche, to walk through colonial streets full of history and to be thrilled by an infinite sunset over the sea.

Tenerife is contrast, authenticity and beauty in its purest form. A place you don't just visit... you live and breathe it, and it stays with you forever.

Make this experience truly special by booking your stay in one of the holiday homes at Tenerife LivingUnique spaces, lovingly cared for and designed to make you feel at home while you discover the magic of the island. Your perfect refuge in Tenerife is waiting for you.