Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, measuring some 60 miles long, boasts striking volcanic landscapes and beautiful open, green countryside. Situated just off the West African coast, Tenerife affords a warm all year round climate, spectacular mountain scenery and a mixture of golden sand and dark volcanic beaches.

This lively island is home to a diverse variety of resorts that offer a something-for-everyone appeal. Playa de las Americas, Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Puerto de la Cruz, Golf del Sur and Playa de la Arena remain the most popular resorts. These coastal hang-outs offer much in the way of entertainment in the form of beach activities, water sports, lively nightlife, countless bars and restaurants and a whole host of other tourist attractions.

Best time to visit: All year round.

Essential experiences: Hiking up Mount Teide; viewing the stunning scenery in the Orotava Valley; shopping in the capital Santa Cruz; hopping on a ferry and exploring the island of La Gomera; jeep Safaris through the rugged volcanic landscape; enjoying an alternative night out at the Medieval show at San Miguel Castle; dolphin and whale watching on a Catamaran boat trip; Loro Parque, which combines a zoo, aquarium and botanical gardens located just outside Puerto de la Cruz.

In a few words, Tenerife is: Vibrant nightlife, drunken Brits in Las Americas, volcanic landscape, black sand beaches, timeshare complexes, expats, the cloudy north, burgers and chips and all-day English breakfasts, booze cruise and the most popular holiday playground in the Canaries.

Whatever your perception of this hot and baking isle whether it be a party island or guaranteed sunshine retreat, to most of the ten million tourists that visit Tenerife year after year, it remains one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations and a sun-drenched destination for all.