Tenerife might not be the first bucket list destination for the seasoned hiker, but it’s an isle worth considering. It even boasts a walking festival, which is perfect for anyone looking to join fellow trail lovers. Here are our top 5 areas for exploring the diverse terrain of this intriguing Canary Isle. Many airlines offer affordable tickets to Tenerife too. So, whether you are looking for five days of hiking or one day of leisurely strolling, it’s a great option all year round.
“Love to hike?
Check out our top 5 areas for
exploring the diverse terrain
of this intriguing Canary Isle.”
Anaga
Just under an hour from Santa Cruz, Anaga is a mountainous part of Tenerife where conditions are perfect for nurturing beautiful green laurel trees. This rural part of the island has some demanding walks, set amid cute villages where you can meet the locals. You will feel a million miles away from the bigger tourist resorts here.
Leave the car and take a walk from Cruz del Carmen to Chinamada. Dramatic views across the coastline and valleys await. On the right hand side of the Cruz del Carmen restaurant you will find a path to follow. Pop into the visitor centre to obtain a map of trails before getting started.
La Caleta to Mount Guaza
A promenade connects Tenerife’s southern resorts, and it’s a popular path for anyone looking for a coastal walk. You can choose to walk a section of the path, or try taking on the whole stretch – which spans almost 10 kilometres. Sights along the way include Playa del Duque, Playa de las Americas and Puerto Colon. This is a walk with plenty of facilities like restaurants, meaning it’s easy to stop for an energy boost on hot days.
Masca Gorge
Masca village is a beautiful setting in the mountains of Tenerife – although it’s worth noting that if you choose to drive here, be careful when tackling the steep hairpin bends! You will likely fall in love with the village itself, but walking through the gorge is also interesting. You can complete the walk in around 3 hours, finishing at Masca Bay. Follow the stream bed and watch your footing as you go.
One of the easiest ways to do this walk is by taking a taxi from Los Gigantes to Masca, then catching a boat back to your start point from the bay. Take good footwear as the terrain can be challenging.
Mount Teide
We couldn’t write an article about walking in Tenerife without including the famous Mount Teide National Park. The vibrant colours of the volcanic landscape here are certainly impressive. Tried and tested paths lead to the top of the peak, and from the summit you should be able to see the Canary Islands glittering in the distance. Be aware that you need a permit to walk here, and it can be better to explore on a guided expedition.
E7 European long-distance path
If you are super keen to take on a challenge, why not combine hiking Tenerife with exploring the E7 European long-distance path? This path traverses the Canary Isles, Spain, Portugal, Italy and France, to name just a few stops. The Tenerife part covers 88 kilometres of the island, stretching from east to west with views of Mount Teide. You can also explore Vilaflor – Spain’s highest village! Find out more here.
The next time you are looking at walking holidays, don’t let the appeal of favourites like the Dolomites and the Alps overshadow lesser-known spots like Tenerife.
Images by cortto and oatsy40 used under Creative Commons license 2.0.
Have you dreamed about hiking in Tenerife?
Share your thoughts and comments with us.
I enjoy hiking the mountains of Arizona.
Great for people planning a Holiday to Tenerife Deborah – thanks for sharing with I am Pinnable