Sights and heights

From the centre of a massive volcanic crater rises the cone of Pico del Teide – at 3718 metres, Spain’s highest mountain. Its shape, imposing and craggy in equal measure, attracts both mountaineers and photographers – and will also inspire you with every glance from the hotel window. The peak that is often snow-capped in winter has, in fact, given its name to the entire island: Tenerife means nothing more than “white mountain”.

Beyond Teide runs the wild-romantic Anaga range of mountains, geologically the oldest part of the island, which could have been made for walking and mountain biking. Wafted by humid Passat winds, the heather, myrtle and laurel trees flourish on the ancient basalt and lava slopes. From the heights you have a breathtaking view of the rocky coast and the expanse of island interior.