Far from the typical stereotype of a cheap, beach destination, Tenerife is a place filled with potential within MICE tourism. Of course this beautiful island is a perfect spot if you are looking for plenty of sun, sand and sea but, now, we would like to explain you why you should have it in mind when planning your next meeting, conference or kick off.
The island
Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands and sits in the Atlantic Ocean just off the coast of North Africa. 2 international airports offer direct connections with Spanish mainland (3h from Madrid, 3h30 from Barcelona) and with most major airports across Europe. Today Tenerife’s population is around 900,000 and around five million tourists visit the island every year. Santa Cruz is the actual capital city, situated in the north, while the most popular tourist destinations are located by the south coasts – Playa de Las Américas, Los Cristianos and the stunning cliffs of Los Gigantes gather most of the great resorts.
A perfect climate is Tenerife’s main asset. Mild summers and relatively warm winters are the result of its subtropical climate, with temperatures averaging 20-22ºC in the winter months and 26-28ºC in the summer. The atmosphere is cooled by the sea breeze and the trade winds and the Island’s unique orography gives rise to varying weather conditions in different areas, to the point that you could find yourself playing in the snow on El Teide’s slopes in the morning and sunbathing or swimming on the south coast in the afternoon.
Several eruptions (the last being in the early 20th century) have sculpted this volcanic island. The result is a great mix of rugged terrain and breath-taking dramatic landscapes being Mount-Teide, the highest peak in Spain, the symbol which welcomes visitors as they come into land.
Where to stay
A huge range of good and top-class accommodation is available across the island, with excellent facilities suitable to a wide range of needs. Large hotel and resorts, conference hotels, smaller boutique hotels, adult-only facilities … can be found in almost every area in the island. South Tenerife concentrates most of the 5* and deluxe hotels. Larger and smaller resorts, with first class facilities, beautiful gardens and pools, restaurants for all tastes, fully equipped conference services, own golf courses … provide a perfect base camp for your event. Despite being the main tourist area, there is a bunch of properties that have chosen a more private location, still not far, so as to fulfil the wishes of companies that expect more privacy.
For those looking for city life and being away from crowded tourists resorts, Santa Cruz, the capital city, have a good offer of first class hotels and conference facilities, venues, restaurants and activities.
What to do & see
Being such a versatile place, with beautiful beaches and a breath-taking nature, there are many original and creative activities and excursions, in the middle of the Atlantic, in the sand of some beaches or in mountainous and volcanic landscapes as the majestic Teide.
Whale and dolphin watching, sea-kayaking, sailing regattas, jet skiing, beach games, golf clinics and competitions, balloon ascents, trekking, jeep-rally tours, canyoning … are experiences which guarantee the success of any corporate trip.
In need of a less active program? No worries, there is an activity to fit all options. Wine cellars open doors to visits and tastings; boats are ready to bring sun seekers for a ride along the beautiful south cliffs; the fantastic Canary gastronomy is always there for guests to both enjoy a meal or, why not?, learn how to prepare traditional dishes in a gastronomic workshop; and of course, picturesque villages and natural parks are a short drive away from most hotels.
We have picked up some of the “must-see” in Tenerife:
Mount-Teide and Mount-Teide National Park: a day trip to Spain’s highest peak is a must. Situated in the the centre of Tenerife, it is one of the oldest national parks in the country. Enjoy the views from its 3718m height. A volcanic landscape with pine forests and green valleys welcome visitors within a quick drive and a cable-car ride to the top will be the reward – a clean view of Tenerife and the surrounding islands.
La Orotava: a visit to this old historic town can be combined on the way up to Teide. Set in an attractive fertile countryside and with a backdrop of Mount Teide, the wealthiest residents of Tenerife used to live here in the past and their influence can be seen in the many beautiful buildings with beautifully carved wooden balconies and interior courtyards. The old town of La Orotava has been declared a Site of National Historic and Artistic Interest and there are lots of Renaissance mansions to admire as well as some beautiful churches and convents.
The Pyramids of Güimar: a natural complex consisting of six free-standing pyramids built in the 19th century, just outside the town of Güimar. The pyramids have become a popular tourist site and definitely stand out in the national park of reed ships, ancient artefacts and tranquil grounds.
Masca Mountain and Valley: one of the most popular hikes on the islands, a 7km trail that starts in a village in the northwest side and goes all the way to the rocky beach below. Guided hikes can be arranged, ending with a boat trip from the beach to Los Gigantes cliffs.
Whale and Dolphin watching: more than 28 species of whales and dolphins live in the warm waters surrounding Tenerife. Daily boat tours are arranged from the south coast and can be privatised for groups.
Tenerife Auditorium Adan Martin: Santa Cruz is worth a visit just for being home to one of the most famous buildings of the islands. The The Tenerife Auditorium, created in an avant-garde architectural style, frequently hosts talks, exhibitions and music events that attract diverse crowds. Besides being a venue that hosts all type of events, the building is open to visitors: the first level has a large open space with a terrace restaurant and a great view.
In a few words: Tenerife is the place where your guests can get lost in nature, relax on the beach, climb Spanish highest peak (a volcano), stroll the old cobbled streets of picturesque towns, play golf, go shopping … but, above all, we will make sure they don’t leave without trying the food, a delicious and unique experience – from a terrace with sea views with a plate of the local shrimps, “papas arrugadas”, fresh fish with “mojo” and a good local wine.
Would you like to learn more about the endless possibilities Tenerife has to offer to a MICE group? Contact us, we will be pleased to tailor-size the most suitable program: info@across-spain.es
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