Tenerife, with a population of 950,000 inhabitants, is the largest island in the Canary archipelago. Its mild summers and its kind winters lead it to be known as “the island of eternal spring.” However, we must remember that Tenerife has two distinct areas that could decide the destination of our holidays.
Due to the mountain range that separates the island by dividing it into two, we find what we call north and south faces that have very different aspects. As if it were “or black or white”, for us the island is “the north” or “the south” and that reaches such a point that we may not know how to correctly distinguish the east or the west (!)
The south has a higher temperature throughout the year and because of this, it is the most tourist and crowded area. Here are the main hotel chains and it is the tourist engine of the island. The most popular destinations are Los Cristianos, Las Américas and Costa Adeje. You should not be surprised if you try to speak Spanish and they answer you in English or German.
The north of the island, on the other hand, maintains a more native aspect and preserves the lifestyle of Tenerife. It is the destination chosen by those who wish to discover nature in all its splendor, visit its villages and markets, and know the island as if they were one more inhabitant. Here, on the contrary, speaking English will be more complicated but that will not prevent you from communicating. You will always find a smile and a kind heart willing to help (even with signs!)
If you choose the north, do not miss the opportunity to lose yourself in their towns and discover their physiognomy through its narrow streets, its farmers’ markets and the sympathy of its people.
If you want to know more about the north and south contrast and the weather of our island, here is a link to the official Tenerife Tourism website.
Post and photo, by Daniel Chamillard and Feelathometenerife.