Tenerife has been crowned the best island for a summer holiday, surpassing popular Greek destinations in a new ranking by Saga. The largest of Spain's Canary Islands, located off the West African coast, achieved an impressive score of 95 out of 100, thanks to its exceptional sunshine, quality cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes.
Why Tenerife Beat the Greek Islands
While Greece has long been a favourite among British holidaymakers, Saga's analysis of European islands considered key factors such as climate, food, and natural areas. Tenerife's top-scoring element was its sunshine: the island enjoys around 3,000 hours of sunlight annually and the longest daylight hours in Europe, making it ideal for long beach days.
The island's diverse offerings extend beyond its coastline. Tenerife boasts magnificent beaches like Playa del Duque, but also features lush forests and a rich cultural heritage. For those seeking a break from the sand, the Anaga laurel forests offer dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and a canopy of ancient laurel trees.
Hidden Gems and Cultural Treasures
Scattered within the Anaga forest are charming villages such as Tagana, a peaceful settlement nestled into the hillside. Tagana preserves Tenerife's traditional architecture and customs, and is home to one of the island's oldest churches, Nuestra Señora de las Nieves.
According to Saga, Tenerife's combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and reliable sunshine made it the clear winner. The island's score of 95/100 reflects its ability to offer a complete holiday experience.
Affordable Travel Options
Travel to Tenerife remains accessible for UK tourists. Skyscanner currently lists flights from various UK airports to Tenerife in August starting from just £151 return. With such value and variety, it's easy to see why Tenerife has climbed to the top of the rankings for summer island getaways.
