วันเสาร์ที่ 23 เมษายน พ.ศ. 2554

The El Teide Volcano - Tenerife's Sleeping Giant!

Belonging to the Canary Island group, Tenerife is a unique volcanic island which is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Home to the dormant Mount El Teide volcano, this ancient island gives visitors a chance to explore the area's lunar like landscapes and experience the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it.

The imposing Mount El Teide which rises 3,718 metres above sea level is Spain's highest mountain and it is little wonder that it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Situated near the Montana Blanca and Pico Viejo areas, Mount El Teide is set amidst the 18,900 hectare Teide National Park which boasts of spectacular flora and fauna that call this part of Tenerife home.

Those finding accommodation at Tenerife apartments and hotels in Puerto de la Cruz and Playa de las Americas can catch the local TITSA bus service which connects these areas to Teide. Visitors planning to ascend the volcano can do so by cable car, by foot or by a combination of both.

Taking the Teleferico Cable Car is the easiest way to head up Mount El Teide and though the service does not run all the way to the peak, the bird's eye view that awaits passengers is truly awe inspiring. The eight minute ride stops off at the La Rambleta area which is only around 200 metres from the summit and those who have obtained permits can trek their way to the top.

Diehard adventurers wanting to truly experience Mount El Teide and its natural volcanic setting can alternatively plan to hike up to the summit by foot. Starting from Montana Blanca, this mountain path is demanding as it is breathtaking and the six hour climb is no walk in the park! Visitors planning to take on the challenge should keep in mind that as the path reaches higher altitudes breathing becomes less easy and those with heart conditions should be wary. As mentioned before, it is worth remembering that one needs to get a permit (given free of charge) from the Administration Office of the Teide National Park (in Santa Cruz de Tenerife) in order to reach the peak.

Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers wanting to maximize their time exploring the wide variety of flora and fauna at the surrounding Teide National Park should look to stay at apartments and Hotels in Tenerife that are within easy reach of this naturally rich area.

Despite the rugged landscape of Mount El Teide, one will find a surprisingly diverse array of plant life that have adapted to the seemingly inhospitable conditions. Home to Canary Island pine and cedar trees, the Teide National Park is also where one can discover such plant varieties as the Teide Edelweiss, the Teide Daisy, the Dwarf Bugloss and the Canary Island Wallflower. Some of these species are endemic to the area and make the park a rich repository of Tenerife's natural wealth.

Those interested in wildlife will also have plenty to see and discover at the Teide National Park. This is especially the case when it comes to insects since the park has become a home to over 700 species! Among the many animal, insect and reptile species one may come across when enjoying a trek include beetles, butterflies, the Canary Island Lizard, rabbits, wasps, the Algerian hedgehog and honey bees.

No matter where ones Tenerife apartment or hotel is, making a trip to the Mount El Teide volcano and its national park is well worth the time and effort. Those wanting to find out more about what one can see and do in the area can refer "Discovering Tenerife's Mount El Teide Volcano & National Park."




Larry Austin is a freelance journalist and who writes on topics related to travel, hotels and destination reviews. He is currently working for RoomsNet.com. Tenerife is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain and RoomsNet.com is a specialist for Hotels in Tenerife. You may view Tenerife Hotels here classified under many themes.

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