3 Best Sights in Central Highlands, Canary Islands

Welcome to one of Spain's largest botanical gardens, with plants from all the islands grouped by their natural habitat. The cactuses are particularly arresting.

From the road leading to the Parador Cruz de Tejeda, follow signs west to the village of Artenara (about 13 km [8 miles]) for views of the rocky valley and its chimneylike formations. You can see both Roque Nublo and Roque Ventaiga, sitting like temples on a long ridge in the valley.

The entrance to the touristy restaurant Mirador de la Cilla takes you through a 164-foot tunnel. Don't eat here—the food is subpar—but it's worth making a stop to take in the spectacular mountain view with a beer or coffee.