Tenerife named best sports tourism destination of 2025
Tenerife has been awarded the title of Best Sports Tourism Destination of 2025 by Spanish newspaper La Razón. This is in recognition of the island’s growing reputation as a top location for active and sustainable tourism.
The award was presented to Lope Afonso, Vice President and Tourism Councillor for the Tenerife Cabildo, at a ceremony held in Málaga. It acknowledges not only the island’s exceptional natural environment but also its investment in sports infrastructure, international events, and well-planned tourism efforts.
“This recognition is a clear endorsement of the work we’ve done to make Tenerife a leading destination in this sector,” Afonso said. “We’ve combined our privileged natural conditions with modern facilities and a high-quality offering that sets us apart internationally.”
Afonso added that the award strengthens the island’s commitment to a strategy based on sustainability, innovation, and year-round tourism. He also highlighted that sports tourism brings positive economic benefits to the island and helps reduce seasonal dependence by attracting visitors outside of traditional peak periods.
Tenerife’s sports tourism strategy has been developed over several years, with close collaboration between local institutions, businesses, and professionals in both the tourism and sports sectors. Dimple Melwani, CEO of Turismo de Tenerife, said the award reflects the success of that long-term effort. “This is not a final destination, but motivation to keep building on what we’ve achieved.”
Yolanda Moliné, Sports Councillor for the Cabildo, reinforced the importance of the connection between sport and tourism, saying “Tenerife is now a benchmark for international sporting events that combine spectacle, sustainability, and economic impact,” pointing to the Tenerife Bluetrail by UTMB as a standout example.
This annual event, Spain’s highest-altitude mountain race, crosses the island from south to north, reaching 3,555 metres above sea level in Teide National Park. It draws thousands of participants and spectators from around the world and highlights the island’s appeal as a natural setting for outdoor sport.
Tenerife’s consistently mild climate makes it ideal for year-round outdoor activities. Sports such as surfing, windsurfing, diving, hiking, cycling, paragliding, and golf are all popular with both residents and tourists.
Top professional cycling teams regularly use Tenerife for training ahead of major events like the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. Meanwhile, the island’s eight golf courses offer spectacular views and facilities for all levels of players.
The Cabildo also celebrated awards for two other Tenerife destinations: the Iberostar Grand Mencey Hotel was named Best Historic Hotel, and Costa Adeje was recognised as Best Sustainable Tourist Destination in Spain.
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