Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a welcoming stopover
After a pleasant downwind sailing under Speejonk, we reached the most populated island of the Canary archipelago.
Between touching the snow on the summit of Teide, or swimming in the southern resorts, a wide variety of landscapes and activities are offered to the yachtsman in stopover.
The marina of Santa Cruz, whose only defect is the prices which are charged, makes it possible to stay in the heart of this pretty city, appreciably more attractive than Las Palmas on the neighboring island of Gran Canaria.
Shelters for boats
Tenerife has 10 marinas, many of them able to accommodate visitors on a stopover. There are also some areas around the island where you can practice mooring. However, you should be careful and be prepared to move quickly depending on the weather conditions.
An island not only for tourists
Although tourism is the main activity, Tenerife's economy is also based on agriculture and fishing. The more humid climate of the north favors a lush vegetation. It is more suitable for agriculture.
Nature lovers will have the choice of multiple hikes in the Anaga Park, classified as a biosphere reserve. The forest is abundant and the laurel trees stretch for miles. Numerous viewpoints allow to observe the island from different angles.
The highest point of Spain
With its 3715 meters of altitude, the Teide volcano is the main attraction.
True hikers reach it by walking. But the cable car can come to the rescue of the less athletic and those whose stay is more limited.
It is very surprising to leave the sunny beaches, with a temperature around 22°, and to find yourself a few moments later in the snow. The volcano is located in a vast national park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lava flows on the slopes have created breathtaking landscapes.
Activities for all tastes
For wine lovers, the wine route is the opportunity for a nice day of walking and tasting of good wines from a volcanic soil. Perfectly unknown, they are nevertheless very tasty, for some... All the usual nautical activities can be practiced here, as in almost all the archipelago. And the sailors who leave a little late in the season will not miss, in February, the carnival which takes place each year on a different theme.
Although Tenerife may seem like the gateway to the Canaries, it is possible to extend the pleasure by visiting the three westernmost islands...
On the way, you may have the chance to cross the road of cetaceans, because they love these waters... La Gomera has a marina, close to downtown San Sebastian, which can accommodate boats up to 20 meters. It is best to make reservations, as the island has few comfortable anchorages. Likewise, the marina of La Estaca to the north of El Hierro can receive passing ships. This island is appreciated, among other things, for its diving spots. And La Palma is also worth a visit, with its volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and natural pools, although the eruption of Cumbre Vieja, in 2021, has deeply affected the local economy.
