The island offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking and biking, for people at all ability levels. Some of the paths in the mountains are strenuous but they offer fantastic views and scenery. A guide book and a map are highly recommended. Mountain biking and road cycling are also popular pursuits here, although be aware that some of the roads are very narrow.

El Teide, an extinct volcano, is the highest mountain in Spain (3718m). It is possible to climb the mountain by foot, or you can drive to a car park below the summit and then catch a cable car. Not the best for those suffering from altitude sickness, but the views from the mountain are spectacular.

Santa Cruz is the island's capital (and capital city of the Canary Islands too). The best way to get around the city is by bus, or for short distances, on foot. There are some very good seafood restaurants in the city, particularly around the port, and two good beaches too.

For a day trip with a difference why not take a ferry to nearby La Gomera, the second smallest of the Canary Islands? The crossing takes only around 40 minutes. La Gomera has some charming towns and villages and getting around the island is now a lot easier than in the past.

Located in Santa Cruz, this is one of the island's best museums. It houses many of the Canary Islands' most significant archaeological discoveries, as well as marine and botanical collections.