Tenerife

This is the largest of the archipelago's islands(1946 km²) divided by a gorge in two parts. Each half has its own climate. The north of the island is perfect for all nature lovers (subtropic vegetation, orange and lemon trees, unusual birds and plants) and is the absolute opposite to the dry, arid south. The capital of the island is Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The island has its own international airport (Reina Sofia - Tenerife Sur), built 60 kilometres away from Santa Cruz, which is also an international maritime port.

The unique climate and nature of Tenerife makes it one of the most popular and fashionable holiday destinations of the world. Due to its mild and warm climate Tenerife is often called "the island of eternal spring". All year round this tropical paradise is visited by thousands of tourists from all parts of the world. The average winter temperature is 18C and 25C in the summer. The warm Atlantic current called the Canarian current maintains the water temperature at about 18C in winter months and 22C during summer. The nature of Tenerife is so rich and varied that the island can be called a miniature continent. The majestic mountain chains and fertile valleys, thick tropical and subtropical forests and volcanic deserts, mountain gorges and sand dunes - all of natures contrasts are reflected in the landscape. Tenerife boasts the highest peak in Spain - Mount Teide, 3718 metres above the sea level. In wintertime its summit is completely covered with snow.

At the foot of the mountain, in the huge crater of a dead volcano, 2000 metres above the sea level you'll find Teide National Park, where you can see unusual shapes and forms of rock and lava. Tenerife's flora is also versatile and varied. Tenerife is a home to Canarian pine and palm trees, chestnut trees, pear and almond trees, and in the south of the island - drought-resistant plants and cacti. The fertile soil on the island is occupied by different kinds of plantations - palm banana, tomato and many other varieties.

The south of the island is famous for its beautiful beaches of Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas, and the unique climate enables you to be able to bathe in the sea all year round.

The shoreline, housing most of the hotels and resorts, consists of large open beaches with golden or black sand followed by rocky stretches forming small caves and cosy bays. Tenerife is the prime spot for all kinds of water sports - windsurfing, scuba diving, underwater hunting and many other kinds.

Seafoods, including rare kinds of fish only caught in the waters around Tenerife, and fresh vegetables and fruit constitute a staple diet for locals. A special sort of tobacco popular around the world due to its excellent quality is also grown on the island.