The largest and most populated of the seven Canary Islands has a fascinating history that dates back to 200BC. Its earliest inhabitants were the Guanches, the rather macabre mummified bodies of which are now enshrined at Santa Cruz’s fascinating Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre. The last of the Canaries to be conquered by the Spanish, the colonists took root in the 15th century.

With clement weather throughout the year—it’s rare that the sun isn’t shining, even in winter—Tenerife has certainly earned its nickname of “Island of Eternal Spring”. July and August are Tenerife’s peak season, while September is just as hot but a little quieter. Winter is Tenerife’s second high season, as the island is blessed with the warmest temperatures in Europe.

If it’s culture you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Tenerife’s cosmopolitan capital, Santa Cruz. But while its museums, galleries and Plaza de España, cooled by the glacier-blue artificial lake at its centre, are certainly absorbing, many locals would rather bask on the sun-baked Playa de Las Teresitas, a 10-minute drive from the city. The man-made beach (its sand was imported from the Sahara) is lined with kiosks selling refreshments, making it a compelling choice for a laid-back afternoon.

Playa de las Américas is another man-made beach and comes as supersized as its name might suggest. Sunbeds, umbrellas and ice-cream kiosks are all in ready supply for an easy family day out. Quieter seaside options include the basalt beaches around Los Gigantes, a stretch of raw sand reclining at the base of cliffs in the northwest that soar up over 500m.

Had your fill of lazing on the beach? Scale the dizzy heights of dormant volcano Mount Teide at Tenerife’s navel. It’s a tough six-hour hike from the base to the summit, but the views are ample reward. Alternatively, drive through its surrounding Teide National Park to explore its lunar landscapes pocked with craters and traversed by rivers of petrified lava.

Hire a car in Tenerife with Avis to traverse its varied landscapes, discover private coves and beaches and access its many charming towns and villages.

• Mobile phones may not be used at all whilst driving
• Do not use headphones when driving (except hearing aids)
• Dipped headlights must be used in poor daylight visibility
• Always use indicators, you will be fined for not using indicators when needed
• Cyclists have right of way, at all times

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• Rural areas: 90 km/h (55 mph)
• Motorways: 120km/h (74mph)

• It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
• Children aged under 12 and less than 135cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size
• Children aged under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front seat