Whilst Costa Adeje is pretty much centred around tourism and means there’s lots of fun activities to do, it does mean that culture is a little on sparse side. The only thing I can really associate with Costa Adeje is Dorada, their local beer and Mount Teide.
Whilst I will only be commenting on the activities, I have personally done, I do know they have submarine rides, a trip to The Thousand Year Old Dragon Tree (legend has it that if a woman circles it three times, she will fall pregnant), whale watching (if you don’t see any on your trip, you’ll get a free one) and the Loro Park, that has more animals than you can nervously shake your hat at.
Markets in Costa Adeje
Costa Adeje has it’s own market which is apparently the same as the one in San Cristiano. It’s medium-sized and full of toys, fake T-shirts, wooden African statues, beach dresses and bags. To be honest, there’s nothing that you’ve not seen before here, but it’s worth a look around. These are very touristy,
Costa Adeje market is just North of Plaza Playa del Duque and open Saturdays & Thursdays from 9am to 2pm.
Top Tip: Go with low expectations. Or seek out an alternative market.
Mount Teide by Night
Mount Teide
Teide is a Spanish monster of a mount. It is in fact, a volcano and stands nearly 4,000 metres high – it’s the highest point in Spain and also the highest point above sea level in the islands of the Atlantic. Thomson are doing a special ‘Teide by Night’ trip whereby you get to watch the gorgeous sunset and see the beautiful stars.
A bus picks you up around 2-3pm, depending on your location. You stop at several scenic points to take photos, including Los Gigantos, before winding your way up Mount Teide. There are several stops, (including a toilet stop, so don’t worry about that!) where you can view the mountain in more detail as you go. Eventually, you watch the sunset near the top of the mountain, complete with glasses of champagne in your hands and nibbles by your side. You can even wrap up in a blanket if you get chilly.
Finally, it’s time to go for a three course meal at a restaurant nestled at the top of Mount Teide. Following that, you take a look at the stars which are simple spectacular; they’re clear, bright and make you feel really really small.
The guide is superb, hugely knowledgeable about the plant life, history and most amazingly, the stars.
Something you have to do! You can book via a Thomson rep (or maybe even organize this independently) and it cost us €75 each.
Top Tip: Take a long sleeved top and closed shoes for when it gets colder.
Siam Park
Siam Park is a water park that’s situated approximately 10 minutes (free) bus ride away from the Fanabe Shopping Centre (right by The Bahia Princess).
The beach at Siam Park
Siam Park, as the name suggests, has a Thai theme, with Thai style terraces, food and even Thai massages available. The rides are its main attraction of course, from the lovely lazy Mai Thai River, to the terrifying 28m drop known as the Tower of Power. For ultimate thrill, however, you must seek out Kinaree – it looks like something out of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory and will literally have you hanging on by the seat of your little Speedo’s.
It is perfect for adults and kids alike and will keep you entertained for the whole day. There are more gentle rides for the younger kids, a water world play area and each of the large water slides are graded from gentle through to pant-wettingly scary. Especially if you go in December, there are few queues for rides.
For 1 adult day pass it is €33.
There are lockers available for €5, with a €5 deposit.
Top Tip: If you’re worried about burning, wear a T-shirt over your bikini. You can even wear this on the water slides (apart from the Tower of Power).
Walk to La Caleta
If you’re tired of all the stores selling tat, the smell of fried food and the slightly dirty buildings all around you, then La Caleta, a beautiful little fishing village that still retains some of its traditions is where you should head.
It’s approximately a 30 minute stroll away (this really depends how fast you walk, whether you stop for a drink or a paddle in the sea as you go…) along the coast. You will see the transformation from the Saharan-sanded beaches to the pebbly Volcanic areas. You may even stop for a fresh fruit smoothie on the way. It’s also a popular jogging track in the mornings – something you may feel is required after participating in the tremendous hotel buffets.
Once at La Caleta, make sure you browse the shops and most importantly, stop for a fresh fish dinner.
To get to La Caleta from the Bahia Princes, turn left out the Bahia Princess and left again down the hill until you reach the beach. Then turn right and just walk.
Top Tip: Head down in time to watch the sunset.
Take a walk in the Barranco del Infierno
Part of the walkway in the Barranco de Infierno, Adeje
The Barranco del Infierno, is tucked away at what appears to be the ‘top’ of Adeje. Situated further inland from Costa Adeje, Adeje is a €7 or €8 taxi ride away.
It is a 2 hour walk set in the hills of Adeje. The path takes you along the edge of steep ravines, through woodland and across rockfalls. As you walk, you’ll hear the scutter of lizards as they run from you, see amazing spiderwebs in between the various types of cacti and breathtaking views to the sea.
Whilst it is recommended that you take sturdy shoes, really anything that’s not flip-flops will do. Although be prepared to clamber over rocks and steep slopes.
In several areas, there is no shade, so make sure you take water and suncream.
Top Tip: Stop off at Otelo, situated at the entrance to The Barranco del Infierno – It is famous for its fried chicken and garlic sauce. The chips are awesome too. And the views aren’t bad, either.
Entrance is free to the Barranco del Infierno
View in Barranco de Infierno, Adeje
[…] For those who get angsty about shower power, you’ll be pleased to know these were strong. There’s also a bath to soak your feet in after walking the Barranco de Infierno. […]