Tenerife, Canary Islands

Just 130 miles from Africa, Santa Cruz de Tenerife was founded in 1494, becoming a key port on the trade route between Europe and the Americas. Framed by Baroque churches and historic buildings, charming plazas dot the city, including the central Plaza de España. In contrast, the modern Torres de Santa Cruz are the tallest twin towers in Spain, and the futuristic Auditorio de Tenerife sits majestically on the waterfront. Calle de la Noria bustles with Canarian style and offers shopping, entertainment and cuisine. Outside of town, the rugged laurel forest of Anaga Rural Park has marked hiking trails, while the UNESCO World Heritage site of Teide National Park displays the island’s volcanic origins and the highest summit in Spain. Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is home to many of Tenerife’s oldest buildings. The island also has spectacular beaches and is famous for mild weather.