I always though Tenerife was a tourist destination. Nothing more.
How wrong I was.
Tenerife is like a “mini continent” squeezed into one island with a cooler, greener northern part and a hotter, desert climate in the south. This small segment of Spain oozes with wildlife, culture and adventures for explorers seeking to wander off the beaten track.
The capital, Santa Cruz, is a vibrant, tropical city with gardens, old buildings and history. A single day wasn’t enough to explore the whole city but here are some of the highlights!
Mercado Municipal Nuestra Senora de Africa
The main market of the city situated within a Moorish style with arches. Look out for unusual spices, cheeses, teas and tropical fruits like red bananas!
Museo Militaria
Free museum with loads of military artefacts including guns, cannons, tanks and helicopters. Learnt that Santa Cruz was where Napoleon lost his arm in a failed effort to conquer the port city.
Plaza del PrÃncipe de Asturias
A hidden square in the historic centre, this 19th century design is a beautiful little green space built on the site of an old orchard. The summer house in the middle was surrounded by well placed Christmas decorations.
Parque Garcia Sanabria
A shady, green oasis, Parque Garcia Sanabria is the largest green space in the city and is beautifully kept. Full of palm trees and other tropical plants, every corner is worth exploring!
