The year-round pleasant climate, particularly during the cold winter months that northern countries experience, is one of the main reasons why the Canary Island of Tenerife is such a hit with tourists. But this popularity can often leave the main tourist hubs feeling just that - extremely touristy. If you’d rather avoid the crowds and head to destinations that remain unspoilt by mass tourism, consider heading to the smaller villages and towns on the island.
Holidu, the holiday rental booking portal, has analysed Google searches made by Spanish people in the past year to uncover which towns in Tenerife are the most popular. This means you can escape the crowds of the busier tourist traps and head to the towns that the Spanish themselves are seeking to visit.
To discover the full top 10 ranking, visit our study here: www.holidu.co.uk/f/villas-tenerife-spain#small-towns
1. El Médano - 3,600 monthly searches on Google
El Médano is officially the most popular small town in Tenerife, according to searches by Spanish people. With a population of fewer than 3,000 people, El Médano is a tiny coastal town located in the beautiful south of Tenerife. Less than 10 minutes from Tenerife South Airport, it is extremely easy to reach this gem of a town and you will not be disappointed. Despite its small size, El Médano is a world-famous surf destination! Each morning you can take a sunrise walk along the beach and you’ll be able to spot colourful kites hovering above the water as kitesurfers take to the waves and the wind. The popularity of this surf town means there is always a vibrant atmosphere in the streets and the town's many cafes and restaurants.
2. Garachico - 2,900 monthly searches on Google
The second-place trophy goes to one of the oldest villages in the Canary Islands! The history of Garachico dates back to the 15th Century and is a very interesting history to learn about. The town enjoyed its status as the main port of the island and was extremely wealthy and prestigious because of this. However, Garachico was almost entirely destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706, leading to it being dubbed one of the unluckiest towns in Tenerife. Discover its past by visiting the museum, the famous natural rock monument, and the castle which was built to defend the town from pirate attacks.
= 3. Vilaflor - 1,600 monthly searches on Google
Instead of heading to Playa de Las Americas, which is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tenerife, consider the wonderful town of Vilaflor. The town is less than an hour's drive from the party location of Las Americas but is the perfect choice for anyone wishing to avoid areas of mass tourism. Vilaflor is also the highest village in Tenerife, sitting at an altitude of 1,400m above sea level on the southern side of the Teide volcano. Vilaflor’s pretty village centre, cultural heritage and rural surrounding landscape are all reasons why it should be included on your Tenerife bucket list.
= 3. Bajamar - 1,600 monthly searches on Google
The 4th most popular small town in Tenerife is Bajamar, a coastal town in the northeast of the island, just a 30-minute drive from the island's capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The town has remained largely untouched by tourism and is an ideal location for anyone seeking relaxation and tranquillity. The town lies in a valley at the foot of the Anaga Mountains, making it a hit with hiking and nature enthusiasts. One of the main attractions in Bajamar is the Natural Pool of Bajamar. Here you will find two large pools and a smaller one for children, and thanks to its cleanliness and the presence of lifeguards, the water park is considered to be very family-friendly and safe.
5. Los Silos - 1,300 monthly searches on Google
Los Silos secures its place as the 5th most popular small town in Tenerife this year. Home to less than 5,000 inhabitants, Los Silos is an off-the-beaten-track destination for travellers who are keen to discover a piece of paradise away from the typical tourist metropolises. Located in the northwest of the island, the diverse landscapes which surround this town include panoramic views of the Teno Mountains, nature reserves and the incredible ocean. This makes Los Silos a great choice for hikers and watersports lovers alike. Los Silos is also only a 10-minute drive from the second-place town, Garachico, meaning you can visit these two gems without any hassle!
Tagged in Holidays