A Journey to the Stars

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for experiences that can captivate both adults and children alike. Our recent adventure to Teide National Park was nothing short of magical. The journey began with a convenient pick-up from our hotel in Los Cristianos, a detail that made the trip stress-free from the start. The anticipation was palpable as we boarded the bus with fellow travelers, all eager to explore the wonders of the night sky.

Our first stop was a charming local restaurant in Chio, where we were treated to a delightful Canarian meal. The menu offered something for everyone, including my vegetarian daughter, who was thrilled with her meal. The Canarian potatoes and mojo sauces were a hit with the kids, and the chocolate dessert was the perfect sweet ending. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet other families and share our excitement for the evening ahead.

Sunset Above the Clouds

After our meal, we continued our ascent into the mountains, reaching a breathtaking spot above the sea of clouds. As the sun began to set, we were handed glasses of cava or juice, and the first “wow” moment of the evening unfolded. The view was nothing short of spectacular, with Mount Teide standing majestically in the background. The kids were mesmerized by the changing colors of the sky, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty surrounding us.

The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about the landscape and the unique ecosystem of the area. They even took professional photos of us with the sunset, a keepsake that we will treasure forever. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the temperature dropped, and we were grateful for the warm jackets provided by the team.

Stargazing Under the Night Sky

Our final destination was a stargazing site at an altitude of 2200 meters, where four high-powered telescopes awaited us. The guides led us through an engaging presentation about the Milky Way, constellations, and the wonders of our universe. Seeing Saturn and its rings through the telescope was a highlight for the entire family, a moment that left us all in awe.

The experience was unhurried, allowing us to take our time exploring the night sky. The guides’ passion and knowledge were infectious, and they patiently answered all of our questions. We were also treated to professional photos under the stars, along with time-lapse images of the sunset and close-up shots of celestial objects we had viewed.

As we made our way back to Los Cristianos, the kids were buzzing with excitement, recounting their favorite moments of the evening. The entire experience was seamless, from the pick-up to the drop-off, and it was a perfect blend of education and wonder. For families seeking a unique adventure, this stargazing tour is a must-do. It was a night filled with “wow” moments that we will cherish for years to come.