Canary Islands - Tenerife
- Sal Schmidt
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the buzzing capital of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa. Santa Cruz was our third destination on our 110-day Cunard World Cruise aboard the divine Queen Anne ship.
Tenerife reveals its hidden charms when you leave the main roads behind. Our day began aboard a rugged 4x4, ready to explore an island of contrasts: golden and volcanic beaches, misty mountain viewpoints, and centuries-old villages steeped in history.
Our first stop was Playa de las Teresitas, a breathtaking stretch of golden sand framed by palms and the turquoise Atlantic. The calm, sunlit coastline provided a gentle start to the day, a perfect moment to breathe in the fresh ocean air and admire Tenerife’s softer side.
The journey then climbed through the winding roads of the Parque Rural de Anaga, where the scenery became increasingly lush and dramatic. Deep ravines, jagged ridgelines, and dense vegetation unfolded around us, creating a sense of travelling through a hidden, almost primeval world. The 4x4 handled the narrow, twisting mountain roads with ease, allowing us to fully absorb the grandeur of this protected natural area.
From there, we ventured inland to a dramatic contrast: the volcanic black sand beach of Almáciga. Here, the dark, coarse sand and crashing waves offered a raw, elemental beauty that spoke of the island’s volcanic past. Standing on the shoreline, it was impossible not to feel the power and history of Tenerife beneath your feet.
Next, we stopped in Taganana, a quaint coastal village perched on the hills. Here, we sampled locally made wine while taking in sweeping ocean views (the views were much better than the wine). The village exudes charm and authenticity, offering a glimpse into a quieter, slower-paced side of Tenerife life that feels untouched by time.
Continuing higher into the mountains, we reached Mirador Cruz del Carmen. At this lofty viewpoint, the air turned cooler and the breeze brisk, reminding us of the altitude, and we regretted leaving our jackets behind. We quickly walked to the viewpoint to take in the panoramic vistas of forested peaks and distant coastline, the mist and chill lending a mystical quality to the scene, albeit briefly, as we were soon back to the warmth of the jeep, admitting defeat.
Our final stop was San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of history. Wandering through its cobbled streets, colourful colonial buildings, and lively plazas offered a perfect contrast to the natural landscapes we had explored earlier. La Laguna’s charm, culture, and stories provided a thoughtful and memorable conclusion to the day before we returned to the port.
From golden sands to volcanic shores, winding mountain roads, and historic streets, this 4x4 journey revealed Tenerife in all its contrasts and beauty. It was a day filled with dramatic landscapes, quiet villages, and unforgettable views a true window into the island’s soul.
Date visited: January 2026
Very interesting report. You folks are on the move having fun as always. Cheers loraine Dickson.
Enjoy my friends. Great and informative post.