If you’re looking for the kind of winter sun getaway that the Canary Islands are famous for, but you don’t want to face the crowds, then a romantic break to Los Gigantes on the beautiful west coast of Tenerife could be the perfect option for you.
Quieter than many of the island’s coastal towns famous for their partying and nightlife scene, Los Gigantes is a forgotten haven on Tenerife’s picturesque west coast, popular with British visitors looking for a quieter holiday option.
The name Los Gigantes comes from the awesome (and I use that word in its literal sense) cliffs which create the town’s breathtaking backdrop. Known locally as the Acantilados de los Gigantes or ‘cliffs of the giants’, the impressive 800-metre cliffs mark the end of the Teno Mountains. This 7 million-year-old mountain range towers over this part of the island’s coastline, creating stunning vistas and enchanted visitors.
Not only is Los Gigantes in one of the most scenic regions of Tenerife, it is also in the sunniest part of the island. While the whole island is known for its warm winter temperatures (rarely dropping below 17ºC in the winter months), Los Gigantes actually has more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in Tenerife thanks to the protection offered by those towering cliffs. All this goes towards making it the perfect destination for those looking to top up their depleted vitamin D levels after a winter spent in the UK.
Soaking up the Sun
If all you want to do on your romantic winter break is lie in the sun and swim in the sea then the dramatic volcanic black sand beach in Los Gigantes will be ideal for you. The beach is set against the stunning backdrop of the Gigantes cliffs and the waters around the harbour are calm and perfect for swimming. Of course, because you’re away from the more crowded parts of the island, finding a sun lounger is rarely a problem.
Those who like a little variation in their sunbathing spots, or just a little more seclusion, should wander down the coast to find one of the many natural bathing pools to be found at the base of the cliffs in the area.
One of the closest to Los Gigantes is the ‘natural’ sea pool at Isla Cangrejo, on the way to Puerto de Santiago, although nature has been given a bit of a helping hand in the form of a sea wall to protect it from rough seas. The crystal clear water of the pool and its warm temperatures make this a fairly idyllic swimming choice which remains remarkably uncrowded.
If you want a little more action on the beach, you can always head over to the neighbouring resort of Playa de la Arena with its popular Blue Flag beach. It can get crowded in peak season but you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars lining the beach so you can relax with a cold drink and do some people-watching.
Things to do in Los Gigantes
Romantic Excursions
The quieter way of life on this part of the island lends itself perfectly to whiling away the hours together on some of the many excursions available in the area. Whether you enjoy getting out and being active together or just relaxing over an intimate table for two, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for romance here.
If you enjoy walking then a trip up to one of the key vantage points along the Gigantes cliffs makes a dramatic and stunning backdrop for any selfies. Take the main road to Tamaimo for a great cliff-side view or follow the coastal path around the Hotel Barcelo for secluded, stunning vistas.
Take to the Water
The sea around Los Gigantes is relatively calm and teaming with stunning marine life. Whether you choose to go whale or dolphin watching, scuba diving or pit your wits against a giant tuna in some big game fishing, the water here offers plenty of activities to enjoy.
Dinner for Two
There is a range of excellent restaurants in Los Gigantes offering everything from British pub grub to authentic Tenerife cuisine made using fresh local seafood. If you are looking for something truly special then book a table at El Rincón de Juan Carlos, which was awarded its first Michelin star last year.
Serving what it describes as “New Canarian Cuisine”, El Rincón uses the freshest local ingredients to create a seasonal menu that will delight your taste buds.
How to Get to Los Gigantes
There are two airports on Tenerife: Tenerife South and Tenerife North. The closest airport to Los Gigantes is Tenerife South which has regular flights from the UK by Ryanair, Thomas Cook Airlines, Thomson Flights, Monarch and British Airways. Transfers from Tenerife South Airport take around half an hour and from Tenerife North are closer to one and a half hours.
The easiest way to reach Los Gigantes from either airport is to book a Shuttle Direct transfer to pick you up when you land. Choose from either a shared transfer or a private vehicle and your driver will take you directly to your resort.
Where to Stay
Gran Melia Palacio de Isora – Enjoy the ultimate luxurious romantic getaway at the five-star Gran Melia Palacio de Isora. Littered with palm trees, palm-thatched gazebos and countless secluded spaces for intimate encounters, this adults-only hotel oozes romance. There is a choice of restaurants and a bar and nightclub with its own DJ, as well as a spa to relax together in.
El Marques Palace – If you prefer a self-catering option then check out the El Marques Palace with its comfortable, modern apartments with communal pool area. Just a few minutes walk from the beach, these apartments have free WiFi throughout.
IBH Diamond Apartments – For apartments with a view try the IBH Diamond Apartments. All of the stylish, modern apartments here have furnished terraces with stunning sea views. If you’re not keen on cooking then venture downstairs for a buffet breakfast or enjoy snacks at the cafeteria bar beside the private pool.
About Shuttle Direct
One of the leading companies providing airport transfers across Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct offers a stress-free choice for holidaymakers wanting to get from the airport to their resort accommodation. Use the simple online booking service before you set off and your driver will be waiting for you when you arrive to drive you to your onward destination.
