A 6-Hour Journey into Tenerife’s Stars, Wines, and Scenic Vistas
If you’re looking for an experience that combines stunning natural scenery, expert astronomy, and local culinary delights, this 6-hour tour with Stargazing 1242 offers an intriguing blend. For $75, you’ll visit El Pino Gordo, witness the spectacular sunset at Mirador El Retamar, and enjoy organic wine tasting paired with homemade tapas at a picturesque restaurant. The tour is designed for small groups of up to 8 people, which means more personal attention and a chance to really soak in the surroundings.
What we love about this experience is how it balances two very different but equally captivating activities—the daytime visit to one of the Canary Islands’ oldest pines and the evening of stellar observation. Plus, the inclusion of local wines and homemade tapas adds a flavorful, authentic touch that makes this more than just a star-gazing trip. One small caveat is that, despite being marketed as a small-group tour, some reviews mention it gets a little crowded with other groups, which might dilute the sense of intimacy for some travelers.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see Tenerife from a new perspective—both through a telescope and a glass of local wine. If you’re interested in a balanced experience that offers both scenic beauty and a taste of local culture, you’ll likely find this tour worth your while.
Key Points
- Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers for a more personalized feel
- Visit to El Pino Gordo, the Canary Islands’ oldest and largest pine, perfect for nature lovers
- Stunning sunset observation at Mirador El Retamar at 2100 meters, with solar viewing and a glass of wine
- Expert astronomers guide star observations with large telescopes, and real-time astrophotography
- Organic wine tasting and homemade tapas at a scenic restaurant, emphasizing local flavors
- Flexible timing and full refund options if canceled due to weather or low numbers
An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Star and Wine Tour
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The Itinerary Breakdown
This tour starts in the late afternoon, with a pickup option that makes transportation straightforward. Your first stop, El Pino Gordo, is a quick 5-minute visit where you’ll snap photos of the massive, 700-800-year-old pine—a living testament to Tenerife’s ancient flora. While the stop is brief—just about 15 minutes—it’s enough to appreciate the significance of this natural monument and get some memorable photos.
Next, the journey takes you to Mirador El Retamar, perched at 2100 meters above sea level. Here, the combination of sunset views and solar observation with Coronado H-Alpha telescopes is a real highlight. You’ll see the sun’s surface in incredible detail, a treat for anyone interested in the stars and solar phenomena. The guide will likely point out features like sunspots and prominences, making this a fascinating preamble to the night sky viewing. Plus, you’ll enjoy a chilled glass of local wine with the sunset, creating a relaxed atmosphere with spectacular photo opportunities.
As night falls, the focus shifts to stellar observation. With 12-inch Dobsonian telescopes, you’ll peer into the universe and marvel at galaxies, star clusters, and distant objects. The guides are professional astronomers who often perform real-time astrophotography—a rare chance to see the cosmos through a telescope and then have images to take home.
After star-gazing, the tour concludes at Restaurante Finca Tres Roques, a charming spot where you’ll indulge in organic wine tastings paired with homemade tapas. This part of the experience emphasizes local flavors and craftsmanship, completing the journey with a satisfying taste of Tenerife’s culinary scene.
What to Expect at Each Stop
El Pino Gordo is quick but meaningful—an iconic natural monument that gives you a sense of the island’s ancient roots. The visit here is brief but offers great photo opportunities and a moment to appreciate the island’s oldest pine.
Mirador El Retamar is where the magic begins. The high altitude and clear skies make for ideal solar and night sky viewing. The sunset views are described as some of the best in Tenerife, and the solar telescope sessions are both educational and visually impressive.
Star Gazing with Telescopes involves observing galaxies and other celestial bodies in real time. The guides’ expertise ensures you’re not just gazing blindly but understanding what you’re seeing—an enriching experience for both novices and seasoned sky-watchers.
Finca Tres Roques provides a relaxing end to the day with organic wines and delicious tapas. The focus on local, organic produce makes this tasting session stand out, providing a taste of Tenerife’s culinary heritage.
Authenticity and Value
This tour puts a strong emphasis on authentic experiences—from witnessing a 700-year-old pine to sampling locally produced organic wine. The inclusion of professional astronomers and telescopes ensures quality star-gazing, not just a casual look through binoculars.
The price of $75 is quite reasonable considering the comprehensive nature of the tour—covering transportation, entry fees, expert guides, and tastings. The small group size enhances the experience by fostering a more intimate environment, though some reviews suggest that it can get a little crowded when combined with other groups.
Practical Considerations
Timing is key—this tour runs from late afternoon into the late evening, aligning with sunset and star-gazing hours. You should be prepared for the altitude at Mirador El Retamar and dress warmly as temperatures can drop after sunset. The tour operates in good weather; if clouds or rain spoil the skies, the organizers will offer a different date or a full refund. Make sure to confirm your booking 48 hours in advance for the best chance at clear skies.
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Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy natural beauty and local culture. If you’re curious about the cosmos, love wine, or appreciate scenic viewpoints, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially appealing if you prefer small-group settings where you can ask questions and get personalized attention. The combination of daytime nature and evening star-gazing makes it a versatile choice for a half-day adventure.
Keep in mind that if you’re expecting a highly intimate small-group experience, the reviews suggest it can sometimes be a little crowded, but generally, the personal guidance from experts makes up for that.
Summary
This 6-hour Tenerife tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, scientific wonder, and local flavors. Starting with a quick visit to one of the island’s most ancient pines, then transitioning to breathtaking sunset views paired with solar observation, it provides a well-rounded afternoon and evening. As darkness falls, you’ll marvel at the universe through powerful telescopes, guided by professional astronomers. The experience concludes with a delicious organic wine tasting paired with homemade tapas, giving you a taste of Tenerife’s culinary craftsmanship.
At $75, it’s a compelling value for a thoughtfully curated experience that balances education, relaxation, and authentic local culture. It’s particularly suited for small groups, curious minds, and lovers of scenic vistas and starry skies.
FAQs
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easier to start the adventure without worrying about logistics.
What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, starting in the late afternoon and ending late at night.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for a wide age range. Service animals are also allowed.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly for the evening, especially at Mirador El Retamar, as temperatures drop after sunset.
Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 8 travelers, but some reviews mention it may be combined with other groups, making it slightly less intimate at times.
What is included in the wine tasting?
Organic wines and homemade tapas at the scenic Finca Tres Roques restaurant.
Is the star-gazing suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Guides are professional astronomers who make the experience accessible for everyone, regardless of prior knowledge.
This Tenerife star and wine tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of nature, science, and local flavor—perfect for those wanting to explore Tenerife beyond the beaches and typical sights. Whether you’re a stargazing aficionado or just looking for a memorable way to enjoy the island’s landscapes, this trip promises a memorable evening under the stars.
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