CRITERIO FESTIVAL

Nat Geo Day Tour: Teno Alto, Tenerife's Last Shepherd Stronghold

Set off on an immersive tour through Teno Alto, a bastion of rural traditions within Teno Rural Park. Your local guide will unveil the settlement's evolution during a scenic 75-minute hike. Encounter ethnological elements from prehistoric to present times, and experience the profound connection of Teno Alto's inhabitants to their land, sustained by agriculture and goat herding – the region's hallmark.At the trail's end, delve into the heart of local culture and meet one of Teno's last shepherds. Discover the artistry behind traditional cheeses and the tireless efforts of generations to preserve this ancient craft. Witness a "salto del pastor" exhibition – an esteemed folk sport showcasing remarkable agility and skill.End your adventure at Mirador de Garachico, a traditional restaurant, where the third-generation owners elevate Canarian cuisine with modern flair. Indulge in a tasting menu crafted to reflect the flavours and landscapes of Teno Alto, using locally-sourced produce that highlights the region's culinary richness. To complete the experience, complement your meal with carefully selected wines from the region.By joining this tour, you'll not only support sustainable tourism in a protected area but also contribute to the preservation of its cultural heritage. Interact with locals, gain insights into their way of life, and savour the essence of Teno Alto through its flavours and traditions.

Nat Geo Day Tour: History of Wine in the Canary Islands

Exclusively crafted for National Geographic, this tour offers a deep dive into Canarian wine and its historical significance as a cornerstone of European society from the 15th to the 18th century. Begin by exploring Garachico, one of Tenerife's most impeccably preserved historic towns. As you wander its cobbled streets, your National Geographic-trained guide will unveil the tale of its port—a vital hub for exporting wine to Europe and America, tragically altered by a volcanic eruption. Next, venture to Viñátigo Winery, a family-run estate celebrated for rescuing Tenerife's native grape varieties from near extinction. Meet the bodega wine specialist amid sprawling vineyards, where you'll learn about diverse grape species and their eco-friendly and organic agricultural methods. Experience their meticulous wine-making process before sampling a selection of their finest wines. Wrap up your day with a delightful spread of authentic Canarian snacks surrounded by the stunning vineyard scenery, immersing yourself in the eye-catching vistas of the landscape and the Atlantic Ocean serving as your backdrop.

Sites & Bites: Icod de los Vinos and La Orotava’s bananas and wine

The pine forests and coastal cliffs of northern Tenerife give it a natural and rugged look, but it's the volcanic, fertile soil that provides the area with its star attractions. From vineyards and orchards to banana farms and ancient trees, you'll see and taste Tenerife's home-grown highlights on this half-day tour.First up is Icod de los Vinos, a 16th-century town with a great view of Mount Teide. But even Spain's highest peak can't steal the attention away from the Drago Milenario, a thousand-year-old dragon tree that takes pride of place in the town's botanical gardens. This incredible specimen stands at over 20 metres tall with a canopy that's spread to over 300 main branches. Your guide will explain more about why this native tree is a cultural symbol of the Canaries during your visit. While in Icod de los Vinos, you'll see lines of the town's other treasure growing up and down the hillsides – bananas. Find out all about the island's history of banana farming and taste the freshly harvested fruit, as well as a sweet banana liqueur. Next, you'll head east to La Orotava, one of the oldest wine regions in the Canaries and right on the edge of Teide National Park. You'll see the traditional town centre with its cobbled streets, wooden balconies and buildings in every shade of yellow and visit the Molino de Gofio, a 17th-century gofio mill that's now a museum. It showcases how toasted flour is produced and used in everything from breakfasts to soups and stews, and you'll get to taste the nutty flavoured Canarian delicacy, too.

Princess and superhero themed family cruise in Tenerife

Family fun is what holidays with the little ones are all about, and this themed cruise along Tenerife's southern coast certainly delivers. Local guide, Marios, says, “there are smiles all-round on this superhero and princess sailing trip, with the crew really throwing themselves into making it a special experience for the children.” Every child has their favourite, and from Spiderman to Snow White, the kids will transform into their beloved characters with the entertainment team's expert face painting – plus they'll meet a few grown-up sized supers onboard too. You'll cruise on the spacious catamaran for around three hours, up the coast to La Caleta while the team onboard spread some magic with interactive games and activities.There's a presentation onboard about how we can all help to protect our oceans' wildlife. Then, what better way to embed the message than by sailing next to a protected area where wild dolphins are often spotted. Your crew will help you keep an eye out for them. As the little one's giggle away, you can relax, safe in the knowledge that when they inevitably ask, ‘can I have a snack?,' there's a selection of sandwiches, fresh fruit and soft drinks included to keep them on heroic form.

Guided Tour of La Laguna, Canarian Lunch and Wine Tasting

A day of contrasts, cuisine and captivating views awaits on this full-day tour of Tenerife's past and present. You'll explore the colonial city of La Laguna and take a panoramic drive through Anaga Rural Park, stopping by some of the island's finest viewpoints. You'll also tuck into a hearty lunch in Taganana, sample wine at a local winery, and call at Las Teresitas beach. Valeria, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘During our visit to La Laguna market, you're not just shopping, you're engaging with artisans, tasting authentic local produce, and meeting the community. Explore, connect, and support – that's how we can keep the spirit of Tenerife alive.'First up is La Laguna – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – for a tour of its old town. Nestled in a valley in the shadows of iconic Mt Teide volcano, the city is crammed with beautiful colonial architecture, pastel-coloured palaces and Mudejar-style churches, chapels and convents. Stroll around its cobbled streets with a walking tour, before visiting the market. Then, keep your camera handy as you drive through Anaga Rural Park, with a stop midway at a viewpoint offering panoramic views.You'll sit down for lunch in Taganana. Here, you'll feast on a range of traditional Canarian dishes, including wrinkly potatoes with mojo sauce. After, you'll have a short stop at one of Tenerife's most beloved beaches, Las Teresitas, before a visit to La Casa del Vino to round off the day. Raise a glass or two to the island with a wine tasting session.

North Tenerife Guided Tour with Local Lunch

Go on an exploration in the north of Tenerife and you can expect to find pretty villages, ancient history and dramatic scenery aplenty. On this tour, you'll discover the old-world charms of La Orotava, the historic fishing port of Garachico and the legendary dragon tree of Icod de Los Vinos.

La Gomera Tour from Tenerife with Lunch

As you approach La Gomera by sea, the dramatic contours hint at extraordinary landscapes waiting to be explored. As Arianne, one of our expert local guides says, ‘A trip to La Gomera is like visiting a totally different era. You'll feel like you're getting back to the past, to the origins of the Canary Islands.' On this day trip from Tenerife, you'll discover remote villages, spend time in Garajonay National Park and visit the capital, San Sebastian. Garajonay National Park boasts pristine woodlands which are over 60 million years old, and they are undoubtedly a highlight of a visit to La Gomera. The park is a true natural treasure, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Deep ravines scar the swathes of evergreen laurel forests bursting with rare plant life. The visitor centre is the place to find out more about the unique botany and history of Garajonay. Next, you'll pay a visit to some of La Gomera's most scenic villages where you can get a feel for what life is like for the island's residents. After departing Garajonay, we'll stop for a typical lunch made from local produce, served at a family-run restaurant with striking views over the island's volcanic landscapes. You'll also delve into La Gomera's culture with a demonstration of 'silbo gomero' – a unique whistling language. Arianne says, ‘With a landscape like ours, communicating by whistle saved a lot of climbing.' Round off your island tour with free time to explore San Sebastian, where Columbus set out on his first voyage of discovery.

VIP guided tour of La Gomera with Garajonay Park and lunch

Seen from the sea, La Gomera's jagged peaks and lush green landscapes tell you something special lies ahead. And this island just west of Tenerife really is something out of this world. You'll discover remote villages, explore the Jurassic-like Garajonay National Park and visit the capital, San Sebastián.

Southern Tenerife sightseeing tour with wine-tasting

Dramatic landscapes and rugged, volcanic shores come as standard in Tenerife. But, not a lot is said about the rich agriculture the island offers. On this tour, you'll journey through the south and get to know the island's culture and identity. You'll see how aloe vera is grown and learn about its many uses at a plantation, explore the lofty village of Vilaflor de Chasna and sample local wines. Ivan, one of our expert local guides, says “Vilaflor was once called Chasna. But, when a ship captain called Pedro de Bracamonte visited, he spotted a beautiful Guanche girl and shouted Vi la flor de Chasna, which means I've seen the flower of Chasna – after this, the village got its name.”The dry climate and year-round sunshine in the Canaries mean that aloe vera thrives here, even though it is not a native species – it originally came from the Arabian Peninsula. You'll take a guided tour of the plantation, and the owners will share their knowledge about the curative powers of this well-known plant, which is used for medicinal purposes in cultures throughout history.Next, you'll visit Vilaflor. Perched on the southern slope of the island's volcano, Mount Teide, the views down to the coast from 1,400 metres above sea level are next level. The village has an almost Alpine feel that's totally different from the tropical coastline – it has the largest pine forest in the Canaries on its doorstep. After a look around the village, you'll visit an award-winning family-owned winery and sit down for a tasting.

Tenerife Tour with Teide National Park and Lunch

Tenerife's mix of volcanic landscapes and charming colonial towns makes for epic sightseeing. And you'll discover the best of these in just one day on this VIP experience. See the famous Roques de Garcia, visit Puerto de la Cruz and enjoy lunch in a restaurant famed as much for its views as for its traditional Canarian fare. Arianne, one of our guides, says, ‘I love this tour because it combines everything that the island offers – botany, volcanology, sociology and the local way of life.'Your adventure begins the moment you board your VIP bus in the morning and set off towards Teide National Park. Along the way, there's a coffee stop at Vilaflor – the island's highest village – which has a compact old quarter of colonial buildings. At the national park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll have free time to explore the Roques de Garcia. These jagged volcanic rocks make the ideal backdrop for some selfies. Then, as you head north out of the park, the lunar-like landscapes give way to luxuriant eucalyptus forests.Our next stop is a popular restaurant, which boasts views of Teide and the coastline. Tuck into a typical lunch made from locally sourced seasonal products. In the afternoon, we'll head into Puerto de la Cruz. Enjoy a stroll along its volcanic seafront and through its palm-studded plazas and exotic gardens. On the return leg, we'll stop at a famous viewpoint, which looks down on the wave-washed coastal village of Garachico.