Spain
The beautiful nature of El Teide
A national park, a volcano with the highest point in Spain, mighty views and an incredible starry sky, that is El Teide!
Exploring the volcano and national park El Teide
Plan a whole day to explore the national park and the volcano El Teide. Drive towards the top of the national park and take the cable car from there to the top of the volcano, the highest point in Spain. Learn from our mistakes and book your ticket at least a day in advance. At the top, you can only buy a ticket online (€40 per person for a round trip), and all time slots were completely sold out. We and many others, faced with high demand and limited availability, unfortunately had to return disappointed. During your ride, there are some interesting stops that you definitely should not miss: - Roques de Garcia: Impressive rock formations that offer spectacular views. - Arenas Negras: A fascinating black lava field that gives you a sense of volcanic activity. - Las Narices del Teide: Beautiful crater formations that demonstrate the power of the volcano. - Pico Viejo: The second highest peak of the volcano, with breathtaking panoramas. - Tabonal Negro: Another unique lava field with interesting geological features. Bring your lunch and stop at one of these stops to eat. Note that there is little shade in the park, so make sure to apply enough sunscreen and possibly bring a cap or hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Relaxing at restaurant Jardin Del Sol
In a hidden square, away from the hustle and bustle of Los Gigantes, you can find this gem next to two other restaurants. The staff is incredibly friendly and ready to offer advice on the best dish on the menu and their craziest stories about adventures in the area. Order a bottle of wine and let yourself be surprised by the most special dish on the menu: try the grilled salmon with a strawberry and rosé wine sauce. Sounds crazy? Just trust me and thank me later ;) Want to be sure of a spot? Reserve a table in advance!
Admire the sunset and stargaze in Teide National Park
End your day in the breathtaking El Teide National Park. Do you have your own car? Drive to Mirador de los Poleos (or another agreed meeting point) and meet your guides there. No transport? Book the trip with pick-up included from your accommodation. At the point of Mirador de Los Poleos, everyone gathers. Literally. All organizations gather their participants here to first watch the sunset. Our organization served a glass of bubbles to toast together. After the sun has set, everyone is asked to drive to a place a little further away. All organizations go to a different spot. So no worries, the large crowd you see at sunset is not the group with whom you will be stargazing. Once you arrive at the new location, the guides set up the telescopes and begin an engaging explanation about stars, constellations, and planets using a laser pointer. You will learn how to find the North Star and how to spot the Andromeda galaxy using the great square of Pegasus, while also picking up some Greek mythology. Thanks to the telescopes, you can observe details of planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. Don't forget to bring warm clothes! It can get cold.
