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3-day driving tour of Tenerife: Explore the island of eternal spring
Tenerife, the largest island of the Canary archipelago, offers a perfect combination of volcanic landscapes, idyllic beaches and picturesque villages that make it the ideal destination for a three-day getaway. Here we suggest a route by hire car that will allow you to discover the best of Tenerife in a short time.
Without a doubt, a hire car is the best option for discovering these destinations but, in this post, we also leave you with the essentials that you must visit during your getaway.
With Record go Mobility you can book your car hire in Tenerife South at the cheapest price. Book online, without intermediaries, and with exclusive car hire discounts.
Day 1: North Tenerife – La Laguna, Teide and La Orotava
Start your adventure in the historic city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its cobbled streets and enjoy its colonial architecture. Don’t forget to visit the Cathedral of La Laguna and its colourful Canarian courtyards.
From La Laguna, head towards the Teide National Park. The drive will take you through spectacular scenery, past the lush forests of the Corona Forestal to the imposing Teide volcano, Spain’s highest peak. Weather permitting, take the cable car to enjoy panoramic views from the top. Remember to bring warm clothes, as the altitude can make temperatures cool even in summer.
After exploring Mount Teide, continue your journey to La Orotava, one of Tenerife’s most beautiful villages. Here you can admire the traditional Canarian architecture and visit the famous gardens of the Marquesado de la Quinta Roja. Finish the day tasting the local gastronomy in one of the typical restaurants of the area.
Day 2: West Coast – Garachico, Masca & Los Gigantes
The second day will take you to the west coast of Tenerife, where nature and history intertwine. Start in Garachico, a charming coastal town known for its natural pools formed by volcanic lava. Garachico has a fascinating history marked by volcanic eruptions that destroyed much of the old harbour, but also gave rise to its picturesque coastline today.
From Garachico, take the road to Masca, a small picturesque hamlet tucked away in the mountains. The road to Masca is an experience in itself, with hairpin bends and breathtaking views of the ravines. Once in Masca, you can take a short hike to enjoy the views or just stroll through the village.
Finally, head to the Cliffs of Los Gigantes, an impressive set of cliffs that plummet to the ocean from heights of up to 600 metres. If time permits, consider taking a boat tour to see the cliffs from the sea and, if you’re lucky, spot dolphins or whales.
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Day 3: South Tenerife – Playa de Las Americas, Los Cristianos and Candelaria
The last day of your route will focus on the south of the island, known for its golden sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Start in Playa de Las Américas, the tourist heart of Tenerife, where you can relax on the beach or take part in water activities such as surfing or paddle surfing.
A few kilometres away is Los Cristianos, another popular beach destination. This former fishing village has retained its charm despite tourist development. Here, you can enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants or take a ferry for a short excursion to the nearby island of La Gomera.
To end your trip, visit Candelaria, a place of great religious importance in Tenerife. Here you will find the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, patron saint of the Canary Islands. The promenade of Candelaria is ideal for a last walk before returning to your starting point.
With this three-day driving tour, you will have explored the contrasts that make Tenerife a unique island, from its sunny beaches to its volcanic mountains and villages full of history – an experience you are sure to remember!
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