The Ultimate Island Getaway

Tenerife – The Ultimate Island Getaway

Welcome to Tenerife, a sun-drenched gem in the Canary Islands that offers far more than just beautiful beaches. Nicknamed the “Island of Eternal Spring” for its mild climate, Tenerife blends natural beauty, rich culture, and a vibrant lifestyle – all of which have made it a top choice for foreign buyers seeking a second home or investment property. This engaging guide will reveal some of Tenerife’s lesser-known facts and unique charms, showcasing why this island is such a special place to live or own real estate.

Island of Eternal Spring: Climate and Natural Wonders

Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 metres, crowns Tenerife’s diverse landscape. Thanks to its subtropical location and varied terrain, Tenerife enjoys one of the world’s best climates. The island basks in over 300 sunny days each year – especially in the southern resorts – with comfortable temperatures around 22–24°C even in winter. It’s not an exaggeration to say you can sunbathe on the beach and play in snow on the same day: snow often dusts Mount Teide’s summit in winter, while golden beaches stay warm just an hour’s drive away. This pleasant weather makes Tenerife a year-round paradise for outdoor living and al-fresco dining.

Tenerife’s geography is surprisingly diverse. Lush green valleys in the north (nurtured by moisture from Atlantic trade winds) contrast with the arid, sun-baked coasts of the south. The northwestern slopes receive about 73% of the island’s rainfall, keeping them verdant, while the south lies in a dry rain shadow. The result is an island of microclimates – from pine forests and banana plantations to semi-desert hills – often earning Tenerife comparisons to a “continent in miniature.” Nature lovers will find endless adventures here.

 The island is home to Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site centred around an ancient volcano. Mount Teide not only dominates the skyline; it also holds a quirky record, casting “the longest shadow over the sea in the world” at sunrise and sunset.

Down at sea level, Tenerife’s coastline is equally enchanting. You’ll discover beaches of many hues – from golden sandy bays to dramatic black volcanic shores. The crystal-clear Atlantic waters are teeming with life, making Tenerife one of Europe’s top whale and dolphin watching destinations. In fact, the channel between Tenerife and La Gomera harbors over 20 species of whales and dolphins (around 26% of all species worldwide!), including resident pilot whales and friendly bottlenose dolphins. Boat excursions have a 95% success rate of sightings year-round, offering magical encounters with these creatures in the wild. Whether you’re hiking through ancient laurel forests in Anaga, stargazing under clear night skies, or simply enjoying a sunset over the Los Gigantes cliffs, Tenerife’s natural splendor is never far away.

Culture and Lifestyle: More Than Sun and Sea

Beyond its beaches and sunshine, Tenerife boasts a rich cultural tapestry that might surprise first-time visitors. The island’s history blends Spanish colonial heritage with indigenous Guanche roots, creating local traditions that are uniquely Canarian. For example, did you know Tenerife shares a curious connection with Scotland? The flag of Tenerife is identical to Scotland’s, both featuring St. Andrew’s white cross on a blue background – a nod to Saint Andrew being the patron saint of the island as well. History buffs may also be intrigued that British Admiral Horatio Nelson lost his arm in Tenerife, during a failed 1797 attack on Santa Cruz – a legendary tale often retold with pride by locals.

One of the island’s biggest cultural highlights is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a flamboyant festival held every February. This Carnival is the world’s second largest, only rivalled by Rio de Janeiro’s celebrations. For weeks, the capital bursts into a frenzy of colour, music, and dancing. Parades fill the streets with sequined costumes and Latin rhythms, led by the Carnival Queen and even a tongue-in-cheek “Burial of the Sardine” event. It’s a truly spectacular party – and a point of pride for Tenerife, where locals welcome visitors to join the fun. If a massive Carnival isn’t your scene, don’t worry: nearly every town in Tenerife has its own fiesta or romería at some point, celebrating everything from patron saints to local harvests, so there’s always something festive on the calendar.

Food and drink are another delightful part of Tenerife’s lifestyle. Forget any clichés about bland tourist fare – Tenerife today is a foodie treasure. The island has multiple Michelin-starred restaurants (at least six stars in total), attracting culinary travelers from mainland Spain and beyond. You can savour avant-garde tasting menus – such as at the renowned M.B. restaurant with its two Michelin stars – or enjoy simple fresh seafood in local fishing villages. In tiny coastal hamlets like Tajao, you can pick your fish straight from the day’s catch and have it grilled on the spot, a local secret for a low-key feast. Tenerife is also gaining fame for its wines: the island’s volcanic soil produces distinctive reds and whites, continuing a legacy that dates back to Shakespeare’s time (the Bard himself was said to enjoy Canary Islands Malmsey wine). From farm-to-table guachinche eateries serving hearty Canarian stews, to upscale oceanfront bars pouring local wines at sunset, Tenerife’s culinary scene caters to all tastes. 

Day-to-day life on the island is laid-back and family-friendly. You’ll find modern amenities like shopping centres, international schools, hospitals and high-speed internet, yet also a relaxed pace of life. The main cities – Santa Cruz (the co-capital of the Canaries) and La Laguna – offer theatres, museums, and beautiful historic architecture. San Cristóbal de La Laguna in particular is a must-visit: this UNESCO World Heritage city was Tenerife’s first capital and is famed for its preserved 16th-century streets and colorful mansions with wooden balconies. Strolling La Laguna’s pedestrian lanes by day or enjoying its buzzy tapas bars by night, you sense the living history and student energy (it’s home to the Canaries’ oldest university). Meanwhile, in the tourist hubs of the south, you’ll find English pubs next to Spanish tascas, creating a cosmopolitan vibe. With thousands of expats from Britain, Italy, Germany, and elsewhere, English is widely spoken alongside Spanish, making it easy for international residents to settle in. The island’s welcoming atmosphere and cultural diversity mean you can feel at home in Tenerife from day one.

A Diverse Island: North, South, and Beyond

One of Tenerife’s charms is how varied its regions are – it’s like getting multiple destinations in one. Each part of the island has its own character, so it’s worth exploring beyond the tourist brochures to find your perfect fit:

• South Tenerife (Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Las Américas): This is the sunny playground most visitors first encounter. The south and south-west coast offer year-round sunshine, wide sandy beaches and a lively resort scene. Areas like Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos buzz with restaurants, shops and nightlife catering to an international crowd. English, German and Italian signs are common, creating an easy holiday vibe. For property buyers, the south is prime territory – here you’ll find modern developments, luxury villas and golf resorts. Costa Adeje, in particular, is known for its upscale feel: five-star hotels, designer shopping, and Michelin-star dining. Yet even with the tourism infrastructure, the south retains natural beauty. Don’t miss the stunning cliffs of Los Gigantes, or the tranquil coastal walks in areas like La Caleta. If you crave a vibrant atmosphere with all conveniences at your doorstep (and virtually guaranteed sunshine), South Tenerife is ideal.

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  North Tenerife (Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, La Laguna): Lush, green, and culturally rich – the north feels a world apart from the south’s arid landscapes. Thanks to the moisture from trade winds, northern Tenerife is full of banana plantations, vineyards, and tropical gardens. The historic town of Puerto de la Cruz was one of Spain’s first tourism resorts in the 19th century, and it remains a charming mix of old and new. You can wander colonial-era plazas, visit the famed Botanical Gardens, or enjoy family fun at Loro Parque zoo. The vibe is more Spanish here; tourists mingle with locals, and there’s a sense of authenticity in the cuisine and fiestas. North Tenerife is also a haven for nature and adventure: the rugged Anaga Mountains in the northeast offer spectacular hiking through ancient forests, while picturesque villages like Garachico and La Orotava showcase traditional Canarian architecture and handicrafts. The climate is a bit cooler and wetter than the south – think eternal spring rather than endless summer – but still very pleasant. If you appreciate greenery, culture, and a slower pace, the north will steal your heart.

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  City and Inland Areas: Beyond the coasts, Tenerife’s interior and metropolitan areas have their own appeal. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital (shared with Gran Canaria’s capital Las Palmas), is a bustling port city on the northeast coast. It’s perfect for those who enjoy city life – you’ll find fashionable shopping streets, art galleries, a stunning modern auditorium, and the beautiful Parque García Sanabria for a peaceful escape. Santa Cruz’s seaside suburb, Candelaria, is home to the island’s patron saint and a lovely basilica by the ocean. Just next door, La Laguna (mentioned earlier) offers an Old World charm with its UNESCO-listed old town and a cooler climate due to its higher altitude. Inland, you’ll discover quaint rural communities and vineyards scattered on the slopes. Wine enthusiasts will love regions like Tacoronte or the Orotava Valley, known for excellent wineries. And for a truly unique sight, visit Güímar on the east coast, where mysterious step pyramids built by the Guanches still stand as an archaeological park – one of Tenerife’s many hidden surprises from its pre-Hispanic past.

  
  

  
  

  
  

In short, Tenerife has something for everyone. Whether you prefer the buzz of beachside resorts or the tranquility of mountain villages, this island’s diversity means you can choose your own ideal lifestyle. Better yet, good roads and two international airports (north and south) make it easy to explore the whole island. In a single day, you can drive from the surf-friendly winds of El Médano in the south, across volcanic lava fields near Teide, and end up in the misty laurel forests of Anaga in the far north – witnessing an incredible variety of scenery along the way. Few places offer such a range of experiences in such close proximity.

Finding Your Dream Home in Tenerife

If the Tenerife lifestyle sounds tempting, you’re not alone – international buyers have been snapping up homes here for decades. In fact, non-resident foreigners account for around 20% of property purchases in the Canary Islands (well above Spain’s 10% average), highlighting the enduring appeal of Tenerife as a place to invest in property. It’s easy to see why: the island offers a rare combination of great climate, beautiful surroundings, and solid infrastructure, all within the stability of Spain and the EU. Whether you’re looking for a savvy investment or a personal haven in the sun, Tenerife’s real estate market has plenty to offer.

The southwest coast near Costa Adeje offers luxury resorts, modern amenities, and gorgeous ocean vistas – a hotspot for property hunters. When it comes to real estate in Tenerife, you’ll find a wide range of options to fit your taste and budget. Many buyers are drawn to the south-west, where buying villas in Tenerife often means panoramic sea views, private pools, and proximity to golf courses or marinas. In areas like Costa Adeje or Chayofa, you can find everything from sleek contemporary villas perched on hilltops to charming Spanish-style houses in gated communities. If an apartment is more your style, there are numerous residential complexes with pools and lush gardens, offering a resort-like lifestyle with the convenience of on-site amenities. Imagine a modern two-bedroom flat in a complex with a heated pool, gym, and concierge – those are common in hotspots like Playa de las Américas and Palm-Mar. These communities let you enjoy a holiday atmosphere year-round while providing security and maintenance, which is perfect if you’re not living on the island full time.

The property market in Tenerife is well-established and foreigner-friendly. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers; people from all over Europe (and beyond) purchase here with the same rights as locals. English-speaking real estate agencies and legal advisors are plentiful, making the purchasing process smooth. Local banks are experienced in dealing with overseas clients too, whether you need a mortgage or just help with opening an account. Do keep in mind, buying in Spain involves some additional costs (approximately 8-10% on top of the purchase price for taxes and fees), and getting an NIE number (foreigner ID) is one of the first steps – but a good agent will guide you through all this.

From a market perspective, Tenerife remains a smart long-term bet. British and other European buyers are especially enamoured with Tenerife’s climate, relaxed lifestyle and good value – key reasons many choose it over other destinations. Even after the UK’s Brexit changes, demand from British buyers continues to be strong. Popular areas for foreign homebuyers include Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Los Gigantes in the south-west (known for their mix of luxury resorts and residential neighborhoods), as well as Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Ursula in the north for those preferring greener surroundings. Prices can vary significantly by location: exclusive beachfront villas in the south can fetch multi-million euro price tags, while a countryside finca or a flat in a local town might be very affordable. Overall, property values in Tenerife have been rising steadily in recent years (around 5-7% annually) amid high demand and limited supply of new builds. This bodes well for investors looking for appreciation or rental yield. At the same time, compared to many mainland European markets, Tenerife’s prices still offer good bang for your buck – especially considering the unparalleled lifestyle return on investment.

In summary, owning a home in Tenerife means investing in a lifestyle as much as a property. You’re buying into morning swims and evening strolls, weekend hikes and year-round alfresco meals. Many foreign buyers initially come for the sunshine and stay for the quality of life: it’s easy to slip into a routine of playing golf on Tuesday, sailing on Thursday, and exploring a farmers’ market on Saturday. And if you plan to rent out your property when you’re not using it, Tenerife’s ever-popular tourism ensures a healthy rental market, particularly for well-located villas and apartments with sea views or within resort communities. Just be sure to choose a reputable agent, do your homework on each area, and envision what your perfect Tenerife day looks like – there’s bound to be a corner of the island that matches it.

Embrace the Tenerife Lifestyle

Tenerife isn’t just a place – it’s a way of life. Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean, sipping your coffee on a sunlit terrace, and knowing that no matter the month, a day of adventure or relaxation awaits. Perhaps you’ll head out to a seaside golf course in the morning, then cool off with a swim at a beach where the water is warm even in January. By afternoon you could be wandering through an art festival in a historic town, and in the evening, sharing tapas with new friends as a fiery sunset paints the sky. This blend of natural beauty, festive culture, and modern comfort is what makes Tenerife so appealing to those seeking a second home abroad.

What truly sets Tenerife apart is the welcoming community and ease of integration for foreigners. The island has long experience hosting international residents – you’ll find neighbourhood expat groups, multilingual services, and a general openness to people from all walks of life. Yet, Tenerife also retains an authentically Canary heart, giving you the chance to immerse in Spanish island culture at your own pace. It’s the kind of place where you can feel on holiday and at home simultaneously.

In Tenerife, every day feels a bit like a vacation, but with the satisfaction of having your own piece of paradise. From its lesser-known facts – like the ancient pyramids of Güímar or the fact that Fast & Furious 6 and other Hollywood films were shot here – to its everyday pleasures of sea, sun, and friendly smiles, this island is full of delightful contrasts. If you’re an international buyer considering a property in the Canaries, Tenerife offers not just an investment, but an invitation to a richer life.

In conclusion, Tenerife’s unique mix of spectacular nature, lively culture, and attractive real estate opportunities makes it a standout choice for foreign buyers. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury villa with an ocean view, a chic apartment in a resort, or a traditional house in a quaint village, Tenerife has a place for you under its endless blue skies. Embrace the island’s charm, and you may find that owning a home in Tenerife is the start of your happiest chapter – a sunny sanctuary where you can truly live the good life.

Thinking of making Tenerife your home? Feel free to reach out to local experts luxurywp.com – we’ll gladly share insights and tips. Once you experience Tenerife’s magic firsthand, you’ll understand why so many from around the world arrive as visitors and stay as delighted homeowners.

¡Bienvenidos a Tenerife!

Sources:
Tenerife weather and climatenightskiestenerife.com;
Carnival and cultural factsloveexploring.comtenerifepropertygroup.com;
Michelin-starred diningloveexploring.com;
La Laguna UNESCO heritageloveexploring.com;
Whale watching uniquenessdrifttravel.com;
Foreign buyer property trendscanarianweekly.com;
British buyer preferencesrenova-costa-adeje.com;
Guanche pyramidstenerifepropertygroup.com;
Hollywood films in Tenerifetenerifepropertygroup.com.