Wild Flora and Gardens of Tenerife

For generations, the residents of Icod de los Vinos have worked in harmony with the sloping hillsides of northwest Tenerife to create a lush and fertile landscape. This is where vineyards have flourished for centuries and an ancient dragon tree has become the talk of the town. Head along the coast and it's the harbour walls of Garachico that steal the show. Find out more about the island's volatile volcanic past at the Convento de San Francisco museum before soothing your senses as you pass by flowering bird of paradise plants and plentiful farmers' fields on route to the Valle de Guerra.

This morning's hike is a treat for the senses as you wind your way through pine forests as floral notes of wild lavender and the more masculine aroma of artemisia complement the rich blue hues of the Mediterranean. Continuing along the undulating Anaga mountain trail you'll come across the inhabited cave village of Chinamada. Residents still live in much the same way as their ancestors, although the introduction of electricity and a few brickwork renovations have added a few more home comforts. Your sensory experience continues in the afternoon as you visit the Parque de los Lavaderos in El Sauzal. It's one of Tenerife's best kept secrets with steep flagstone paths, trickling streams and secret grottos surrounded by bountiful botanical plants and stunning ocean views.

Experience an urban oasis in Santa Cruz as you take a tour of the gardens, fountains and flower clock in Parque García Sanabria, the largest city park in the Canaries. Following on from here you'll be invited to see hundreds of palm species within the Palmetum botanical garden before crossing the island to the elegant town of La Orotava. This is one of Tenerife's most beautiful and best preserved towns that sits within the foothills of Mount Teide's fertile volcanic slopes. It's the perfect place to complete today's optional tour with historic houses and traditional restaurants adding to the affluent ambience.

Explore Anaga Rural Park with a full-day excursion. The first stop is Mirador de Jardina, offering panoramic views of the Anaga Mountains and La Laguna. Next, we’ll visit Cruz del Carmen for a brief stop and explore its scenic trails. The journey continues to Las Carboneras, a small village surrounded by lush hills. We’ll then explore Chinamada, known for its cave houses. After a traditional Canarian lunch, the excursion ends with a visit to El Sauzal, where you can enjoy stunning coastal views and tranquil gardens.