The island of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands (Spain) offers a plethora of paths that you cannot miss. These incredible trails cross the whole island through its changing landscapes which will surprise even the most adventurous.
LessThe Teide is Spain’s highest peak (3,715 m). The climb to the top of the volcano on path number 7 is known by many as the best hiking trail in Tenerife. This popular trail starts on the slopes of Montaña Blanca and ends at La Rambleta (3,555 m) where the La Fortaleza Lookout Point is, just a few meters from Teide’s peak. To continue the walk to the summit, go along path number 10, which requires an access permit.
El Alto de Guajara, located in the Teide National Park, is a mountain of volcanic origin that goes up to 2,718 meters, which makes it the third tallest in the national park and in Tenerife. From here, on the border between the north and south of the island, you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views in Tenerife, with views of volcanoes like Mount Teide, el Pico Viejo or the Montaña Blanca and Las Cañadas Caldera. The landscape is unforgettable.
The Barranco del Infierno is located in the Adeje municipality, in the south of Tenerife. The area is considered to be a Special Natural Reserve for its high geological value and its great archeological interest with its aboriginal caves and rock carvings. Re-tracing a path that was used by shepherds ages ago, you will discover magnificent lookouts as well as unique flora and fauna. Once you reach the river banks, the vertical walls lead you all the way to the ravine’s waterfall.
If you want an easy hiking trail in the Teide National Park, the Fasnia Volcano is a good option. The path goes along part of path number 20, along volcanic cones which were part of the eruption which kept the island of Tenerife in suspense in January 1705. The landscape stands out for its very intense black tones and during the flowering season it contrasts some flowers like the red and blue Tenerife bugloss. This circular trail starts at the parking lot of the Corral del Niño Lookout Point.
In the Arico municipality, there are various fascinating hiking trails. One of them passes through the high part of the gorge Barranco del Río and its Canarian pine tree forests. After the initial 3-km climb to enter the ravine, the water steals the show and it guides you on the path until the final waterfall, at which point you will go back to the starting point on the same path. The river flows all year long, which you can take advantage of to cool off if it is hot.
One of the best hiking trails in Tenerife is the one that joins the ancient cross path Cruz del Carmen and the town of Punta del Hidalgo. Taking off from Cruz del Carmen, in the Anaga Massif, you will go along a path full of changing landscapes that go from leafy laurel forests to the steep coast of Punta del Hidalgo, where its impressive cliffs facing the Atlantic Ocean await you. It is mostly a downhill path.
Another of one the most popular trails in Anaga Country Park (and Tenerife) is the circular trail that joins the towns of Afur y Taganana passing Tamadite Beach. Flanked by mountains, you will start the walk along a trail in which the first kilometers will take you to the sea by way of the Barranco de Afur. Once at the Tamadite Beach, rough and wild for its usual strong waves, a fishermen’s home welcomes you. Later, the path goes, among cliffs, to Taganana until you finally return to Afur.
If you want to discover one of the most isolated places in Tenerife, you cannot miss out on the coastal village Roque Bermejo. This remote paradise only accessible on foot, by sea or by air does not have any permanent residents. The walk starts off in the town Chamorga and after four kilometers, it reaches the Anaga Lighthouse, built between 1861 and 1863. At its foot lies Roque Bermejo and its beaches, the best reward before getting back on the trail that returns you to Chamorga.