Volcanoes, Ancient Cultures & Wine Above the Clouds — Tenerife

On our third day in Tenerife, Fran was overcome with a violent flu bug (think Noro Virus) and ended up spending a half day in a local hospital getting rehydrated. Sadly, she was out of commission for three days, recovering at our hotel. The two of us missed the outing to visit Teide Mountain National Park. The next day, Fran stayed back at the hotel to continue her recovery, while the rest of us headed out for another memorable day on the island of Tenerife.

Our morning began at a museum dedicated to the volcanic origins of the Canary Islands. It was fascinating to learn how dramatically the ages of the islands differ — each formed at a different stage of volcanic activity over millions of years. Tenerife itself is relatively young in geological terms, shaped by powerful eruptions and shifting tectonic forces.

Pics from Museum

We also learned about the islands’ earliest inhabitants — pre-Islamic Berbers from North Africa who arrived sometime between 1,000 BC and 1,000 AD. Although they shared common origins, their language, customs, and cultural practices evolved quite differently from island to island due to isolation. Particularly intriguing was their practice of mummification. While it echoed traditions in North Africa, it developed its own distinctive characteristics here in the Canaries.

In the afternoon, we visited a family-run organic winery on Tenerife’s south shore at an elevation of roughly 1,500 metres above sea level. The setting alone was worth the journey — vineyards cascading down volcanic slopes with sweeping views of the shoreline and Atlantic far below.

We sampled five wines, including an award-winning rosé, accompanied by small appetizers and a delicious chicken paella dinner served on a private patio overlooking the coast. Afterward, we toured the vineyards and learned about their traditional farming methods — sustainable practices where nothing is wasted and every effort is focused on nurturing the soil and vines, some of which are 80 years old.

As if the day hadn’t already been full enough, it concluded with stargazing. With a telescope and expert guidance from our guide Darios, we viewed Jupiter, Saturn, and even Orion’s Nebula — a fitting celestial finale to a day shaped by both ancient earth and vast sky.

Another great day with the Wheel & Anchor Travel group.