Tenerife: Full-Day Gastronomy and Wine Tour

Tenerife: Full-Day Gastronomy and Wine Tour Review

Exploring Tenerife through its food and wine is a fantastic way to understand the island’s culture and landscape. This guided full-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and learning, all wrapped up in about eight hours of enjoyable experiences. The itinerary includes visits to historic La Laguna, cheese and wine tastings, and a delicious multi-course lunch with ocean views.

One thing we love about this tour is the knowledgeable guides—reviewers consistently praise their enthusiasm and insight, making each stop informative and fun. However, the tour’s pace can be quite full, especially if you’re a slow walker or prefer lingering at each spot. It’s a great fit for those who love good food, wine, and small-group experiences that blend cultural sightseeing with culinary delights.

If you’re after an authentic taste of Tenerife’s gastronomy, appreciate scenic vineyard views, and enjoy a relaxed yet structured day, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and bring comfortable shoes—there’s a fair bit of walking and sightseeing involved.

Key Points

• Authentic Tasting Experience: Multiple wine and cheese tastings, plus a traditional Canary Islands lunch.
• Cultural Highlights: Visiting La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers fascinating architecture and history.
• Stunning Vistas: Bodegas Monje provides breathtaking views of the Tacoronte valley, Atlantic Ocean, and Mount Teide.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers rave about guides like Christopher and Olga who make the trip both educational and entertaining.
• Good Value: For around $93, you get transport, multiple tastings, a full meal, and expert guiding—all in one package.
• Limited Flexibility: The tour’s packed schedule might not appeal if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or longer leisure time at each stop.

An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Gastronomy and Wine Tour

The Experience at a Glance

This tour, costing about $93 per person, spans roughly eight hours, making it a substantial yet manageable day trip. The focus is on showcasing Tenerife’s rich wine culture and culinary traditions, paired with some sightseeing of the island’s historic and scenic spots. It’s operated by Viajes Teide Tenerife Excursions, a reputable provider with plenty of positive feedback.

Starting with La Laguna: A Cultural Gem

The day kicks off with a pickup from one of 11 locations across the south of Tenerife, including Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje. The group then heads to La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and charming streets.

Many reviews highlight La Laguna as one of the trip’s best parts. Visitors love wandering its colorful alleys, admiring the historic buildings, and soaking in the relaxed local vibe. One traveler mentioned that even after multiple visits, they learned new things thanks to the guide’s detailed explanations. If you appreciate architecture and history, this stop provides a meaningful glimpse into Tenerife’s past.

Wine and Cheese Tasting at Casa del Vino

Next, the tour takes you to the Wine Museum Casa del Vino in El Sauzal. Here, you’ll have the chance to sample a variety of cheeses and wines, understanding the island’s viticultural heritage. Multiple reviewers noted that the wine tastings here are quite generous and varied, often accompanied by local cheeses and breads, which enhance the experience.

The reviews point out that the setting is picturesque, often in a courtyard-like space, making it a relaxed spot to savor local flavors. One guest remarked that they enjoyed the time here, even wishing for a bit more explanation about the wines, which suggests that while the tastings are plentiful, a deeper guide commentary would elevate the experience.

The Highlight: Bodegas Monje and a Spectacular Lunch

The afternoon is reserved for a visit to Bodegas Monje, perched with stunning vistas of the Tacoronte valley and the Atlantic. Here, the star of the show is the 4-course meal, typically Canary Islands-style, with each dish paired with a different wine.

We loved the way reviewers described the setting—there’s a terrace overlooking vineyards and the ocean, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the feast. The lunch often features local ingredients and traditional recipes, with some reviewers mentioning slow-cooked pork and tasty salads. One reviewer pointed out that the wines served with each course are plentiful, and the views really add to the dining experience.

Several guests commented that their guides, like Christopher, made the tour fun and informative, sharing stories about the wines and the island’s agricultural history. Some mentioned that the meal was of high quality and very generous, making this part of the tour excellent value for money.

Scenic Views and Additional Stops

Throughout the day, the tour offers plenty of scenic views—from vineyard terraces to ocean panoramas. While the itinerary is quite full, visitors appreciate the balance of sightseeing with tasting and eating. Some reviews noted that the bus ride is about 1.5 hours, passing through scenic areas, although the comfort of the vehicle can vary; one guest mentioned the bus was a bit old, but the driver was safe and courteous.

Group Size and Transportation

The tour usually operates with small groups, which enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from guides. The transportation is included, with pickups in various southern locations, and the duration is carefully timed to fit the eight-hour window.

The Cons: Pace and Meal Options

A few reviews mention that the day can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to spend more time exploring La Laguna or linger at the wineries. The packed schedule means quick visits at some stops, and some guests wish for more time at the wine tastings or in the town. Vegetarian options at lunch are sometimes limited, with one reviewer noting their veggie meal was just cooked vegetables, which might be disappointing for plant-based eaters.

Why It’s a Good Fit

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences, appreciate good wine and food, and are comfortable with a busy schedule. It’s ideal if you want an overview of Tenerife’s culinary scene combined with cultural sightseeing, all while enjoying beautiful vistas and engaging guides.

Practical Information

• Duration: 8 hours (check availability for start times)
• Price: Around $93 per person, including transport, meals, and tastings
• Languages: Spanish and English guides
• Pickup: In the south of Tenerife, with reconfirmation of exact time and location
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and a face mask or protective covering
• Not Allowed: Pets
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options are available, but some reviewers note that the veggie meal might be quite simple, limited to cooked vegetables. It’s best to communicate dietary needs in advance.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes all transportation, a multi-course lunch, wine and cheese tastings, and a tour guide who speaks both Spanish and English.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey from the pickup points to La Laguna is about 1.5 hours each way, passing scenic areas. Some reviews mention the bus’s age, but drivers are noted to be safe.

Are the wine tastings hosted at vineyards?
Yes, the tastings occur at wine museums and wineries such as Casa del Vino and Bodegas Monje, both known for their stunning settings and quality wines.

Can I customize my experience?
This is a group tour with a set itinerary, so while you can enjoy the stops at your own pace, it’s not a fully customizable experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for adults; no specific age restrictions are listed, but minors should likely be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and casual attire are recommended, especially since you’ll be exploring towns and vineyards.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have mobility concerns.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, Tenerife’s mild climate makes this tour enjoyable year-round, though spring and fall might offer slightly cooler weather.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Tenerife tour offers a rich blend of culture, scenery, and culinary delights. With knowledgeable guides like Christopher and Olga, you’ll gain insight into the island’s wine heritage while enjoying spectacular views and a hearty, traditional lunch. The experience is especially well-suited for those who love food and wine tours, want a manageable and well-organized day, and enjoy scenic outings.

While the schedule is quite full and may feel rushed for some, the overall value—combining sightseeing, tasting, and cultural exposure—is impressive. The tour’s small-group approach ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of multiple tastings means you’ll leave with a good understanding of Tenerife’s wine scene.

If you’re after a lively, informative, and tasty way to spend a day on the island, this tour is a solid choice. Just pack your comfortable shoes, bring your appetite, and prepare for a day full of beautiful vistas and flavorful experiences.

In sum, this Tenerife gastronomy and wine tour is best for travelers seeking a guided, all-in-one experience that combines culture, scenery, and local flavors. It’s ideal for foodies, wine lovers, and those wanting a fun and relaxed way to explore Tenerife’s culinary treasures.