While resorts such as Las Americas and Los Christianos have been popular package holiday destinations since the 1960s, it’s only been in the last decade or so that travellers have ventured north and discovered the Latin charms of Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz. With a climate less sweltering than the sun-scorched south (the locals describe it as permanently spring), the landscape is refreshingly green.

FROM THE AIRPORT

With two airports - Reina Sofia in the south and Los Rodeos in the north - accessibility is not a problem. From the south: buses and taxis are available, bus 341 takes around 50 minutes and costs £4.70, while a taxi will you set back around £35. From the north: a 25-minute bus ride (102 or 109 service, £2), or a taxi for £9.50.

WAYS TO STAY

Live it up

Built in 1948 to accommodate the island’s first wave of foreign tourists, the five-star Mencey is Santa Cruz’s oldest and grandest hotel. With a deserved reputation for style and service, the antique furnishings, on site facilities (including a tennis court, swimming pool and gym) and superb location (opposite the verdant Parque Garcia Sanabria) make for a refined, elegantly old-fashioned experience.

Singles from £135 (Calle Dr. José Naveiras 38, Tel: 00 34 922 609900, www.sheraton.com/mencey)

Location, location, location

Overlooking charming Plaza del Principe, slap-bang in the heart of Santa Cruz, the three-star Principe Paz is for the visitor who doesn’t want to miss a thing. Every comfortable, tastefully decorated room comes with a television, telephone and air conditioning, but you may prefer to gaze from your window and watch life as it passes below you.

Singles from £55 (Calle Valentin Sanz 33, Tel. 249955, principepaz@principepaz.com)

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