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Bookmark & shareA Top Day in Tenerife
I like to base myself at Puerto de la Cruz which has great bus links throughout the island and is a beguiling combo of tourist resort, elegant town and traditional Canarian buildings. Early morning I hit one of the German bakeries for a crumbly rich pastry, which I eat strolling along the main promenade being sprayed by the thundering surf below. I can't hang around. It's time to lace up the walking boots and catch the bus to Teide, the highlight and highest point of the island. By I am checking the trail maps at the tourist office here, and probably deciding on the pleasantly wimpish 600m choice. Whichever I go with, I can be guaranteed stunning scenery; the volcano and its surroundings have real other-worldly appeal with dramatic rock formations and intense volcanic colours. I will probably opt for a late lunch at the Casa Pana restaurant in the lovely town of Vilaflor. Owner Miryn knows I am a sucker for her home-made white wine which I enjoy on the terrace while savouring a delicious platter of salads, cheeses and fruit under the trailing grape vines. Hopefully I have left enough time to stop at La Orotava on the way back to home base. It's a beautiful small town in an eagle's-nest setting high above the sea, surrounded by banana plantations. Evening sees me enjoying a glass of wine in Puerto's lively main plaza of Plaza Charco surrounded by lively chatter, strolling couples and children playing. Dinner is always a dilemma. Do I go the tapas route and carbohydrate heaven of papas arrugadas con mojo (steamed new potatoes in a spicy sauce) or opt for something more substantial - or healthy, even. Whatever the choice I will wind up the night in the coolest bar in town, Colours Café, for a mojito accompanied by sultry jazz and sparkling conversation before hitting the pillow way after cocoa time.
Author: Josephine Quintero
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