Is there no end to the wonders of Tenerife? Candelaria in the north, 15 km below Santa Cruz, was my port of call today, my first ever visit, and it was windswept and wonderful. The Basilica plaza was being prepared for the big pilgrimage on Wednesday August 15, to worship the statue of the virgin, found by the Guanches, the original island natives, in 1392. Thousands will walk for days from all over the island to pay homage.

Me? I came by bus. Firstly I visited the modern coastal resort of La Calitillas, with it’s large rock pools providing a safe bathing haven from the choppy sea. A short walk past secluded coves, and I was in Candelaria, fighting against the wind (too much tapas) and exploring the small sheltered beaches.

The main plaza is a site to behold, as the 9 Guanche kings look down with their backs to the sea. The church itself is equally impressive and a fitting home for the statue throughout the year. Just hope the wind drops a little before the 15th, it will be a special day for the island.