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6 Charming villages and small towns in Tenerife

charming beautiful villages tenerife small towns

Tenerife is the largest Canary Island and the most popular among tourists in the archipelago. The most popular tourist destinations in Tenerife are all located in the south of the island, where the weather is warm and pleasant all year round.

But there is more to see and do in Tenerife than spend time by the beach. The Canary Islands are a unique place in the world and as such, we recommend spending time exploring the islands and getting to know more about the people and the local culture.

And what better way to know more about the real Tenerife than by venturing out to visit the most charming little towns and villages in Tenerife?

Most beautiful towns and villages in Tenerife

1. masca, 2. vilaflor, 3. taganana, 4. villa de arico & arico el nuevo, 5. garachico, 6. icod de los vinos.

Discover the rural beauty of Tenerife beyond the resorts like Costa Adeje or Playa de Las Americas and the big cities like Santa Cruz de Tenerife or La Laguna .

Masca is probably the most famous village in Tenerife , although judging by its size it's probably more of a hamlet than a proper village.

The road to Masca is probably the scariest and at the same time most exciting drive in Tenerife , so the simple journey to get to Masca is worth the trip there.

Vilaflor is a small village in the municipality with the same name, which is located on one of the most used roads of access to Teide National Park if you're coming from the south of Tenerife.

Vilaflor is also the starting point for the hike to see the Lunar Landscape in Tenerife, which is one of the hikes we've enjoyed the most in the south.

On our way to Teide through Vilaflor, we usually stop at Restaurante - Cafetería "La Paz", where they do a nice barraquito coffee and a tasty almond cake, the perfect combo to give you the energy to go on hikes and walks around the national park.

Located in the very north of Tenerife , Taganana is a small village that will make you feel like you've gotten to the end of the earth. If you're coming from Tenerife south and you're driving all the way to Taganana, the drive will take you around 2 hours and that's without stops to admire the views and landscapes along the way.

If you get to Taganana, you have to stop for lunch at one of the local eateries where you'll always find fresh fish. Afterward, you should continue driving to Playa del Roque and Playa de Benijo, some of the wildest and most secluded beaches in Tenerife . Playa Benijo is also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tenerife .

Located in the Arico municipality, these two villages are not as well known as some of the others on this list.

So if you want to visit a real local village in Tenerife, we recommend stopping in Villa de Arico and Arico el Nuevo, which are very close to one another, so it's easy to spend some time strolling through the streets of both these villages.

Arico el Nuevo has been classified as a Place of Cultural Interest due to the architectural value of some of its buildings.

You can see two typical churches in these villages: Parroquia de San Juan Bautista in Villa de Arico and Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Luz in Arico el Nuevo.

Garachico is probably the most charming small town in Tenerife, located on the northwest coast of the island.

We recommend a visit to Garachico if you're interested to see the typical architecture of Tenerife, with wooden balconies and a typical square (plaza) in front of the Old Franciscan Monastery, with a kiosk in the middle, where you can grab a drink and relax. In the summertime, you can go for a swim in the amazing natural pools, which are some of the most popular natural swimming pools in Tenerife.

Icod de Los Vinos is another pretty little town in Tenerife, located very close to Garachico, so you can visit them both on the same day.

Icod de Los Vinos is pretty well-known because it's home to the Drago Milenario (or Dragon Tree or Drago Tree, or whichever way people call it), the most famous tree on the island. This makes Icod de Los Vinos a popular stop for tours in Tenerife and one of the top places to visit in Tenerife .

Besides going to see the Drago Milenario tree we also recommend taking a walk through the town center, to see the old buildings with Canarian architecture.

Best Apartments in Tenerife: Kn Aparthotel Columbus (Playa de Las Americas) • Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur (Puerto Santiago)
Popular hotels in Tenerife: H10 Costa Adeje Palace 4* (Costa Adeje) • Iberostar Bouganville Playa 4* (Playa de Las Americas) • Barceló Santiago (Puerto Santiago)
Luxury 5* hotels in Tenerife: Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria (Adeje) • Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur (Adeje)
See our dedicated guide for the best places to stay in Tenerife .
Best Excursions & Tours: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks & Snacks • Loro Parque Entry Ticket and Shows

Largest Canary Island - Facts about Spain's Canary Islands archipelago

22 Best things to do in Tenerife & Best places to visit (2024 Guide)

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10 Best Things To Do in Playa de las Americas, Tenerife

15 Best Things To Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

9 BEST Things To Do in San Cristobal de La Laguna

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BLOG , Canary Islands , Destinations , Europe , Tenerife , travel inspiration · December 15, 2023

Anaga Rural Park In Tenerife – 9 Very Best Things To Do

Welcome to my guide on the best things to do in Anaga Rural Park, one of Tenerife’s most breathtaking and unspoiled treasures! Nestled in the northeastern tip of the island , this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Anaga’s rugged mountains, deep ravines, and lush laurel forests create a landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy novel. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast eager to explore its numerous trails, a bird watcher keen to spot some unique species, or simply someone who loves to immerse in the tranquility of nature, Anaga Rural Park has something special for you.

From the charming ancient hamlets tucked away in its hills to the stunning viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the Atlantic, this park is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders .

In this guide, I’ll unveil the top activities and hidden gems that make Anaga Rural Park a must-visit destination in Tenerife . So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and let’s discover the magic of Anaga!

Anaga Rural Park In Tenerife - 9 Very Best Things To Do

What is the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife

Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife is a true natural wonder, a place where the beauty of the island’s landscapes comes to life in the most spectacular way.

Nestled in the northeastern part of Tenerife, this park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its rich biodiversity and stunning geological formations . It’s a world away from the bustling beaches and resorts, offering a glimpse into the wilder side of the island.

Anaga is renowned for its ancient laurel forests , a throwback to the Tertiary period, making it a haven for botanists and nature enthusiasts. The park is crisscrossed with trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes , each leading to breathtaking views, from misty mountains to rugged coastlines.

Quaint villages dot the landscape, offering a peek into the traditional Canarian way of life . Birdwatchers are in for a treat, as the park is home to many endemic species.

Whether you’re trekking through the greenery, exploring the charming hamlets, or simply soaking in the panoramic vistas, Anaga Rural Park is a place that captures the essence of Tenerife’s natural beauty and leaves visitors in awe of its untouched wilderness .

Are There any Fees to Enter Anaga Rural Park?

Visiting Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife comes without any entry fees! That’s right, exploring this stunning UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is completely free , making it an accessible option for everyone.

You can freely explore the vast majority of its paths, soaking in the stunning scenery and rich biodiversity that the park offers.

However, there’s an exception for certain protected areas within the park, like the Integral Nature Reserve of Pijaral, where access is regulated to protect its delicate ecosystem . For hiking in these specific areas, you will need to obtain a free permit in advance .

This permit system is in place to ensure the preservation of the environment and to manage the number of visitors. You can easily apply for the permit online through t he official website of the Tenerife government or the OAG (Organismo Autónomo de Parques Nacionales) .

It’s a straightforward process, but it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned hike, especially during peak tourist seasons, as permits can be limited. By securing this permit, you’re contributing to the conservation efforts and ensuring that the natural beauty of Anaga Rural Park can be enjoyed by future generations.

How to get to Anaga Rural Park

Getting to Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife is a breeze, whether you’re driving, taking public transport, or even hiking. Each mode of transport offers its own unique experience of the journey.

By Car: If you’re driving, the park is easily accessible via the TF-12 road, which offers a scenic route from the capital city of Santa Cruz. Driving gives you the flexibility to explore the park at your own pace and visit more remote areas that might be less accessible by public transport. There are several spots to park your car and start your adventure.

By Bus: For those preferring public transport, the TITSA bus service provides a convenient and eco-friendly way to reach the park. Buses from Santa Cruz, like the 947, can take you to key locations within Anaga. It’s a great option if you’re looking to avoid the hassle of driving and parking, and it gives you a chance to enjoy the stunning views along the way.

On Foot: For the more adventurous, Anaga can also be reached by hiking from nearby areas. There are several well-marked trails leading into the park, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty right from the start. This option obviously requires a bit more time and effort but can be a rewarding experience for avid hikers.

💡 TIP – We went with a rental car but do know that parking is very limited in Anaga Rural Park. So try to start exploring as early as possible.

9 Very Best Things to do in Anaga Rural Park

1. hike the roque de taborno trail.

Known as the ‘Matterhorn of Tenerife’, Roque de Taborno is a striking rock formation located in the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its ancient laurel forests and rugged terrain.

The trail to Roque de Taborno is a moderately challenging one, spanning about 3 kilometers, and it takes around 2 hours to complete . As you embark on this hike, you’re immediately immersed in the park’s unique environment, with its ancient laurel forests and stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.

The path weaves its way up to the base of the Roque, providing hikers with panoramic vistas that are simply breathtaking. The terrain can be rocky and steep in parts, so sturdy hiking boots are a must.

It’s also wise to bring along water, snacks, and sun protection, as most parts of the trail are quite exposed.

💡 TIP – Start your hike as early as possible cause there’s very limited parking space in Taborno.

2. Watch the sunrise from Mirador De Jardina

This viewpoint, nestled in the mountains of Tenerife’s northeastern corner, offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most magnificent displays. As the first light of day breaks, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the sprawling laurel forests and rugged landscapes of Anaga.

The viewpoint provides a panoramic view that not only captures the beauty of the park but also offers glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean and the distant peaks of Teide on clear days. It’s advisable to arrive a bit early, as the colors of the sky start to change before the actual sunrise.

Don’t forget to bring a jacket, as it can be quite cool in the early hours, and a flask of coffee or tea to keep you warm as you wait for the sun to greet the day.

3. Visit the Camino Viejo al Pico del Inglés

This historic street, once a primary route connecting the villages before modern roads were built , is a hiker’s delight. As you traverse the Camino Viejo, you’re enveloped by the lush greenery of the laurel forest.

This ancient path, nestled in the lush landscapes of northeastern Tenerife, offers a glimpse into the past, winding its way through the same routes once traversed by the island’s early inhabitants.

As you set foot on the Camino Viejo, you’ll be instantly captivated by the dense canopy of laurel forests , a unique ecosystem that dates back millions of years.

4. Admire the views from Mirador Pico del Inglés

Perched at one of the highest points in Anaga , this viewpoint offers some of the most stunning panoramic vistas on the island.

As you reach Mirador Pico del Inglés, you’re greeted with breathtaking views that span across the lush laurel forests of Anaga, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and, on clear days, the neighboring islands in the distance.

The viewpoint is easily accessible by car , making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area.

5. Hike the Path of the Senses

The Path of the Senses, or ‘Sendero de los Sentidos’, in Tenerife is a unique and enchanting hiking experience that truly lives up to its name.

Located in the lush Anaga Rural Park, this trail is designed to engage all your senses as you explore the beauty of the laurel forest, a relic of the Tertiary period.

The path is split into three routes of varying lengths, with the shortest being just 340 meters, making it accessible to hikers of all abilities, including those with limited mobility.

As you walk, you’re invited to touch the diverse textures of the forest, listen to the symphony of bird songs and rustling leaves, smell the fresh, earthy scents of the vegetation, and feast your eyes on the verdant greenery and occasional glimpses of the ocean in the distance.

Informative panels along the route provide insights into the local flora and fauna, enhancing the educational aspect of the hike.

6. Visit Playa de Benijo

Getting to Playa de Benijo is a bit of an adventure, involving a scenic drive through the Anaga mountains and a descent down a series of steps , but the effort is more than worth it.

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of black volcanic sand, framed by dramatic rock formations and cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.

The beach is especially popular among photographers and nature lovers, as it offers some of the most spectacular sunsets on the island, with the sun dipping into the ocean horizon. It’s also an ideal spot for picnicking, relaxing, and simply soaking in the natural beauty and serenity of the surroundings.

Keep in mind that swimming here can be challenging due to strong currents and waves , so it’s more suited for experienced swimmers. Also, there aren’t many facilities on the beach, so it’s a good idea to bring water, snacks, and any other essentials you might need.

7. Walk from Benijo to El Draguillo

The walk starts at the stunning Playa de Benijo, where you can admire the dramatic rock formations and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. As you set off towards El Draguillo, the trail takes you along the coastline, offering ever-changing views of the sea and the cliffs .

The path can be challenging in parts, with some steep and rocky sections, so good hiking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

8. Admire the views from Mirador Risco Amogoje

This viewpoint, perched high in the mountains, provides one of the most spectacular panoramas in the area.

The viewpoint is easily accessible, making it a perfect stop for all visitors, including those who might not be up for strenuous hiking.

9. Complete the Punta del Hidalgo – Chinamada hike

The Punta de Hidalgo to Chinamada hike in Tenerife is a hidden gem for those who love coastal trails with a mix of cultural insights . This moderately challenging hike starts in the small, picturesque coastal village of Punta de Hidalgo, located in the northeastern part of the island.

As you ascend, the path offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean. One of the highlights of this hike is the opportunity to explore Chinamada, a unique hamlet where inhabitants still live in traditional cave houses carved into the mountainside .

It’s essential to wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven, and to carry plenty of water and snacks. The trail can also be quite exposed to the sun, so sun protection is a must.

Don’t bother hiking to Mirador Aguaide cause it is closed.

Where to stay near Anaga Rural Park

When visiting Anaga Rural Park we choose to stay 3 nights in San Cristobal La Laguna . This way we were close to the entrance and most of the hikes. Especially when you’re traveling with a young baby you try to limit your travel time.

La Laguna Gran Hotel

La Laguna Gran Hotel provides express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi and a garden.

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How to Visit Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife [2024]

Updated On March 7, 2024

Anaga Rural Park is simply unmissable. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers wild, untamed black sand beaches, soaring mountain peaks, dramatic dark rocks, deep ravines, lush green forest, incredible hiking trails and traditional villages untouched by tourism.

Thanks to a cool and wet climate, Anaga Rural Park is a lush, green mountainous area in northeastern Tenerife. This unspoiled area is packed with mind-blowing hiking trails, wild and unspoiled beaches, charming villages with an authentic feel, and a wide variety of local flora and fauna. It’s an absolute must to see this place while visiting the island.

The Anaga mountains are volcanic and were formed by an eruption that occurred about seven million years ago. It’s one of the oldest parts of Tenerife. The park is only 90 minutes from the island’s southern resorts, and is also characterised by laurel forests, knifelike peaks, abyssal ravines and settlements untouched by time.

Ways to enjoy Anaga National Park include visiting the viewpoints, hiking the trails, driving the scenic routes and spending time at the magnificent beaches. If you want to experience the Anaga Mountains in Tenerife, this guide will show you all this area has to offer. From when to go to where to stay and what to see and do, continue reading to discover the abundant natural beauty of Anaga Rural Park.

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Visit Anaga Park

Although it’s Tenerife’s coldest and wettest spot, Anaga Rural Park remains – like all of the Canaries – a year-round destination. Hiking conditions and temperatures here are thus comfortable during all seasons.

Anaga’s climate depends on the altitude and proximity to the mountain peaks of each particular area. Rain clouds constantly accumulate close to the summits, causing almost 1000 mm of precipitation per year. The average temperature in the mountains is about 16ºC, while in the lowlands the air temperature can be as warm as 21ºC (or 18.5ºC on average). Precipitation is rare in coastal regions, and here you can expect temperatures as high as 25ºC (or 20ºC on average).

Anaga coastline, northern part of Tenerife

May to November marks the driest and warmest period in Anaga. The coldest month is January , while during the summer months it can even get too hot for hiking. Just be prepared for rain at any time outside of summer: always check the weather report before planning your trip to the park.

In fact, cloudy weather in Anaga is not necessarily a bad thing, because the natural surroundings can look even more stunning when set against a dull backdrop.

We visited Anaga in September and in April. In autumn it was considerably warmer, sunnier and drier. During April, the weather was wet but not cold, with light rain. A hoodie or light rain jacket was sufficient for us and the kids. In summary, this is a place to visit anytime. It’s simply too beautiful an area to skip because of slightly inclement weather.

How to Plan Your Visit to Anaga Mountains

With deep ravines, remote beaches and lofty peaks, Anaga is not the easiest part of Tenerife to access. For the best experience, you therefore need to plan your visit carefully. This guide is here to help, and outlines all your options for visiting the Macizo de Anaga UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Day Trip from Tenerife South

This isn’t the best or easiest option, but it is doable if you haven’t much time to spend on visiting Anaga. To see something of Anaga in one day, you’ll need a rental car. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach Anaga from Tenerife South, or about 45 minutes from a more northerly resort such as Puerto de la Cruz .

In a day, it is possible to drive through Anaga, stop at a couple of viewpoints, visit a wild beach and enjoy a nice meal at a local restaurant. You may even have time for a very short and easy hike (like the Path of the Senses ).

It would be a long day, though, with a very early start and a late finish – and you would still only see the merest glimpse of the park. This option is of course better than nothing, though, and well worth choosing over yet another day at a beach resort.

Stay in San Cristobal de La Laguna

As it only takes 20 minutes to reach the park from La Laguna, this is a much better option. You can also use local buses to reach the park when staying here.

In fact it’s worth staying in La Laguna in any case. It has lots to offer, including historic and colonial architecture, great restaurants, a charming Old Town, good museums and cultural attractions, appealing tapas bars and vibrant nightlife. In fact the town was once the capital city of Tenerife.

Buses to Anaga Rural Park from La Laguna

Bus routes 274 , 275 , 271 , 76 , 77 all go to various parts of Anaga. Using buses can work better than a hire car too. This is because you can access the start of a trail via one bus route and return to La Laguna via another at the end of the trail.

Places to Stay in La Laguna

Best – hotel boutique san diego – adults only .

Hotel Boutique San Diego can be found within walking distance of the town centre. This hotel is beautifully kept and offers a welcoming feel, with helpful staff, a delicious daily breakfast and comfortable, spacious accommodation. Some rooms have garden view balconies.

MID-RANGE La Laguna Gran Hotel

La Laguna Gran Hotel offers a rooftop pool and terrace, a sophisticated lobby bar, a relaxing guest lounge and superb views over the Anaga Mountains. Friendly staff, stylish decor, clean rooms, comfortable beds, outstanding food and great value for money make this a very pleasing place to stay.

BUDGET – Casa Del Casco Histórico

Casa Del Casco Historico offers private accommodation as well as lovely, sociable shared spaces such as a lounge, a garden with sun terrace and a larger kitchen. There is free WiFi throughout, and all units have fully equipped kitchens and private bathrooms. The owner is most welcoming and the location very central.

Stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife or San Andrés

Another great option within close proximity of Anaga Rural Park is to stay in the capital of Tenerife – Santa Cruz – or in the small village of San Andrés. The latter is even closer to the park.

Santa Cruz is home to local islanders rather than being a tourist town or resort. More people speak Spanish rather than English, so spending time here is a great way to connect with locals and experience life as it is for residents. Moreover, there are plenty of things to do in Santa Cruz .

Panorama of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands

The must-see Palmetum botanical garden boasts palm trees from all over the world: the collection is the biggest in Europe. We enjoyed visiting a lot. There is also the Museum of Nature and Archaeology, and The César Manrique Maritime Park complex which offers three salt water swimming pools, sports facilities, kids’ play areas, a jacuzzi, a gym, restaurants and a small beach.

The best market on the island – The Mercado Nuestra Señora De África – can also be found here. Open daily, this vast market has several hundred stalls selling all manner of fresh produce, from fruit and vegetables to flowers, dairy products and meat.

In fact Santa Cruz is the best place on the island for bagging a bargain because it boasts the biggest and best shopping centres on the island . Santa Cruz is also close to Playa de las Teresitas, arguably Tenerife’s most beautiful beach .

San Andrés village is even nearer: it’s within walking distance of Teresitas beach. It’s also closer to Anaga Rural Park, and Santa Cruz is only 15 minutes away by car. While the village has a nice selection of restaurants, there are no hotels here, only apartments. If you want less big city hustle and bustle and plan to visit Teresitas beach frequently, you can opt to stay in San Andrés.

We actually stayed here ourselves with the kids once, for precisely these reasons – and we all loved it.

Buses to Anaga Rural Park from Santa Cruz

There are two good bus routes that can get you to Anaga: 946 and 947 . Bus number 946 runs from Santa Cruz bus station to the wild beaches of Playa del Roque de las Bodegas and Playa de Almáciga. It stops en route at the charming village of Taganana, plus there are plenty of other stops you can start hiking from.

Bus number 947 runs all the way to the village of Chamorga in the Anaga mountains. Once again there are hikes from Chamorga, or you can pick any stop along the way to set out from.

Check out all the hikes in Anaga to see if the buses pass the trailhead of a hike you’re interested in. Some of our favourite Anaga hikes are discussed later in the article.

Places to Stay in Santa Cruz

Best – iberostar heritage grand mencey tenerife.

This five star hotel occupies a grand, Canarian-style building and offers a wealth of modern facilities. These include a huge spa, pretty gardens, tennis courts, and a quartet of restaurants. The coastline and centre of Santa Cruz are within 15 minutes’ walk, and accommodation here is stylish, clean and spacious.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Taburiente S.C.Tenerife

Close to García Sanabria Park in central Santa Cruz is the four star Taburient hotel. This property offers an outdoor pool, a gym, parking, a hot tub, a shop, two restaurants and a bar and lounge. The location, amenities and standard of accommodation is fantastic and it offers great value for money.

BUDGET – Hotel Nautico

Hotel Nautico is just ten minutes’ walk from the city centre and close to the cruise terminal and yacht club in Santa Cruz. It’s a lovely property at a great price, with clean, air-conditioned rooms with balconies, a restaurant and a cafe-bar. You can also find local eateries in the immediate vicinity.

Places to Stay in San Andres

If you’d like to stay in San Andres, we have a few suggestions for you. This apartment is simply stunning: it’s well equipped, spotlessly clean and offers mind-blowing views of Playa de las Teresitas.

Another recommendation is not right in San Andres but a little further down the road, past Las Teresitas beach. We can’t fail to mention this apartment because it’s located in a very unique spot. The complex is located right on a private beach, and no one but people living or staying in this complex can use this. Playa de las Gaviotas is also nearby.

Stay in Taganana

Taganana makes the perfect base for exploring Anaga Rural Park. We always choose to stay there when hiking in Anaga. Or when we want to catch the sunset at unspoiled Playa de Benijo beach without rushing back.

Taganana is a true gem. This pretty village features whitewashed Canarian houses surrounded by mountains, vineyards and wild, untamed, black sand beaches . By staying here you also get to experience life in a small Tenerife village in an authentic way – and have easy access to Anaga Rural Park.

The village has limited amenities, with only one small grocery store, so do bring food and other essentials with you. Alternatively, enjoy meals in the splendid local restaurants of the area.

Having a hire car is always the best option in Tenerife, but it is feasible to organise your entire stay in Taganana without needing one. The number 946 bus can take you to the village from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and also allow you to reach some Anaga Rural Park trails and wild beaches.

Best of all is the fact that some Anaga hiking routes begin right here in the village: Taganana – Playa del Tamadite and Las Vueltas de Taganana . One of the best hikes in Tenerife – Benijo – El Draguillo – also starts near Benijo beach, and you can get close to the trailhead via bus 946.

Places to Stay in Taganana

There are no hotels in the village, but we can recommend a few great apartments for your stay in Taganana.

Casa La Poyata

We stayed in this holiday home in 2022 and honestly can’t recommend it enough. It’s a three bedroom, two bathroom house with lots of outdoor space and amazing views of the mountains and ocean. You can read more about our experience in our Taganana guide .

Casa Campo y Playa Taganana

This is another great choice for those seeking accommodation in Taganana. It’s a pleasant two bedroom house with a seaview terrace and a well set-up kitchen for self-catering.

Casa Rural El Puente

This two bedroom apartment is close to the Santa Catalina de Alejandria church, and offers stunning mountain and ocean views. The apartment has a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and an outdoor terrace. There is also a restaurant and bar on site.

Book a Tour

You can also visit the Anaga Rural Park by booking a guided tour. This option saves you from any planning and transport hassles. Here are the ones we recommend.

2-Hour Hiking Tour in Anaga Forest

Pickup from a cruise ship pier or your accommodation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is included with this tour. You’ll go on a two hour hike in the park that’s perfect for beginners.

Hiking in the Anaga Mountains

To join this tour, you need to make your own way to Mirador Cruz del Carmen, where you’ll meet your guide there. It includes a 3.5 hour walk to the volcanic arch, followed by a lunch featuring local produce.

Anaga Rural Park Full-Day Private Tour

While it’s not the cheapest option, this is a whole day tour in a luxurious, 100% electric vehicle. This tour is for just one or two people, and includes pickup available from anywhere in northern Tenerife.

Things to Do in Anaga Rural Park

Stop at the viewpoints.

There are so many fabulous viewpoints in Anaga Rural Park. Here, we cover all our favourites.

Mirador Cruz del Carmen

The visitors centre is at this viewpoint, so most people begin their Anaga experience here. You can also access one of the most family-friendly hikes – Path of the Senses (more about this later in the article) – here. There is a restaurant too.

Though a large car park is available, it still gets super busy here, especially at weekends. Tourist buses also stop here, and it can be difficult to find a parking space. Sometimes you’ll need to wait for one to be vacated.

Other than that, this is an incredible spot offering panoramic views over the lush green landscapes of northern Tenerife. Unless it’s cloudy – when you may see very little – expect stunning views that really demonstrate how different northern Tenerife is from the southern beach resorts.

Mirador de Jardina

Here you can enjoy stunning views over La Laguna with Mount Teide as a backdrop. This viewpoint is on the way to Anaga from San Cristóbal de La Laguna, via the TF-12 road. Expect 360 degree ocean and mountain views, especially at sunset (though it can get rather chilly at this time of day).

Mirador Pico del Inglés

This spectacular viewpoint is only a five minute drive from Mirador Cruz del Carmen, and over 950 metres above sea level. It’s possible to see the entire mountain range from here, and Santa Cruz city. On a clear day, you might even spy La Palma and Gran Canaria emerging from the Atlantic too.

There is a small car park, or you can reach this viewpoint via bus 273 from La Laguna. Keep in mind that there are only a couple of buses per day, though. You can also use buses 76, 77 or 275, but the “Cruce Pico El Ingles” bus stop you need to alight at is about a kilometre from the viewpoint.

Mirador Risco Amogoje

The sweeping views over the ocean and mountains from here are jaw-dropping, and it’s the perfect place for taking pictures. Follow the short trail to get the best photos of Taganana.

Check Out the Old Tunnel

One of the most frequently seen photos of Anaga park is an old, mysterious, moss-clad tunnel. When we first visited Anaga, it was one of our main points of interest – yet to our surprise it was not that easy to locate. We weren’t able to find much information on the internet about it either.

We did manage to find it, however, and now we can share the location with you via Google Maps . It’s on the way to the Pico del Inglés viewpoint, and part of the old road. The tunnel looks truly amazing, especially on an overcast or rainy day. It’s a must for photography enthusiasts.

Anaga Hiking Trails

When it comes to Anaga rural park hiking, where do we even start? The park is a paradise for hikers, so it’s really hard to choose the best hikes in Anaga. Here, we’ve covered our favourite ones of all.

La Ensillada – Cabeza de Tejo Loop

Our first recommendation is one we haven’t actually had the opportunity to try yet. Why so? Well for this hike you need a free permit – and without it you cannot go. While the permit itself involves paying no fees at all, it’s not that easy to get it. You have to watch this website to get one, and grab a free place ASAP because they disappear in minutes.

45 places are released daily, for a date exactly 15 days later. They become free at 12pm in winter and 1am in summer, always in Tenerife time. Our trips to Anaga Park have so far been spontaneous, so we weren’t able to get permits for this hike. We recommend it, though, because we’ve heard so often that it’s one of the most amazing experiences in Tenerife.

Hike known as Enchanted Forest path, Anaga, Tenerife

If you’re lucky enough to get a permit, use this map for the 6.8km loop hike. By the way, the fine is 600 euros if you try to hike this route without the permit, so don’t do so!

The hike – also known as the Enchanted Forest path – passes through a mysterious laurel forest. This setting seems otherworldly, like something from a fairytale, due in part to the mist enshrouding the area. It’s also down to the twisted trees and giant ferns.

The shaded forest walkway doesn’t really get sunlight, so don’t forget to wear – or pack – warm clothing.

The Path of the Senses

This very popular 1.3km loop hike is really more of a walk. It’s also known as Sendero de los Sentidos in Spanish. It’s perfect for families with small kids because it’s really easy: we did it with 3 and 5 year old children without any problem.

The hike called Sendero de los Sentidos, Anaga National Park

We couldn’t honestly recommend this hike for adults in good shape who are looking for a challenge: it’s very short and not at all demanding. Also, because it’s easily accessible, it’s always busy with many people walking the trail. That said – it is perfect for families! There are fun nature and sensory activities for kids along the way too.

It’s also a historic route, as it once connected Anaga villages to the city of La Laguna. There are three possible routes to take, and the first and easiest of these is also wheelchair accessible.

El Bosque de los Enigmas – Mirador de Zapata

This is another great kid-friendly hike. It’s quite similar to the Path of Senses, so we recommend doing just one of these hikes. The route is around 5 kilometres, and is easy to complete in under two hours. There are uneven sections, however, so sturdy footwear is required.

Around halfway along this mystical route is the Zapata viewpoint, from which you can see as far as Mount Teide. Use this map for a 5.0km loop trail from The Forest of Enigmas – Zapata Viewpoint .

Taganana – Playa del Tamadite

This impressive 9.5 kilometre out and back trail from Taganana to Playa de Tamadite gives hikers breathtaking views of the magnificent Anaga coastline throughout.

Playa de Tamadite makes the ideal picnic location en route. It has volcanic black sand during low tide, and pebbles during high tide. You can use this map for the hike, and it generally takes under three-and-a-half hours to finish.

Benijo – El Draguillo

Of all Tenerife hikes on the Alltrails hiking website , this five kilometre loop hike takes first place: it’s one of the best in the Canary Islands. You will also find the hike map on the site.

This two-and-a-half hour hike takes you via a coastal road to El Draguillo, an isolated and typically Canarian hamlet. If you’re driving to the trailhead, set off early as there aren’t many parking spaces. There is a steep section of under a kilometre, but you’re rewarded with views of Roque Benijo, Roque La Rapadura and Roques de Anaga for your efforts.

Punta del Hidalgo – Chinamada

Terraced farmland, rugged mountains, cave dwellings and insights into Canarian rural life await on this trail. The colours and contrasts of the scenery are incredible too, but do expect some steep ascents during this hike. It takes around three and three-quarter hours to complete.

Varied viewpoints along the way allow you to see the ocean, forest and mountains as you go. The hike sets out from Punta del Hidalgo, a Tenerife town, before skirting the edge of the mountains and revealing the coastline. You can walk up to the Mirador de Aguaide viewpoint from Chinamada too.

Las Carboneras – Chinamada – Mirador de Aguaide

We didn’t find this 7.6km loop trail particularly challenging, and managed to complete it with our 4 and 6 year old children. The trail starts in the small village of Las Carboneras and goes around Mount Tenejias before continuing to the village of Chinamada and the beautiful Mirador de Aguaide viewpoint. Here is the full map .

Hiking trail in Anaga Mountains, Tenerife

On this route you get varied views of mountains, forest, coastline and villages. For an easier option, drive to Chinamada and opt for a short 1 kilometre walk to the Aguaide viewpoint. Use this map for that alternative route.

For even more hikes in Anaga Rural Park, check out the selection on the Alltrails website.

Wild Black Sand Beaches in Anaga

Anaga is not only about lush, dense forests and breathtaking, soaring mountain peaks. There are also plenty of spectacularly picturesque and entirely unspoiled black volcanic sand beaches here to discover.

Benijo Beach

If you plan to visit only one beach in Anaga, make it Benijo. It’s located in the northern part of Anaga Park and is accessible by car. You have to go down a set of stairs to access it, however, so it’s not the best option for those with reduced mobility. If you can reach it, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramas of towering cliffs, rugged rocks and stretches of black sand. It really is nature at its finest.

In our opinion this is the most scenic beach in Anaga and probably in the whole of Tenerife. Just make sure you check tide times before visiting because during high tide the beach is almost non-existent. Watching the sunset here is one of the most beautiful things to see in Tenerife. Be sure to come here a couple of hours before the sun sets, though, because the mountains obscure your view of the sun earlier here.

There are plenty of great restaurants to be found in the area around the beach. Take care in and near the water, though, as the currents and tidal action here can be very strong.

Find out more about parking and other amenities in our guide to Tenerife beaches .

Playa Roque de Las Bodegas

This is the park’s most popular beach, with volcanic sand, shingle and stones. It’s more family friendly, and there’s a number of seafood restaurants dotted along the road leading to it. You can also visit the Roque de Las Bodegas viewpoint ( location ) while you’re here, and the sweeping ocean views from the clifftop are awe-inspiring.

Due to gentler wave action this beach is more suitable for swimming than others nearby, but you must still take great care as unexpected swells aren’t uncommon. This peaceful beach offers limited facilities, so don’t expect to find sunbeds, parasols and showers here.

Playa de Almaciga

Surfers and lovers of untamed, natural seascapes flock to Almáciga. Wild waves crash against the Roques de Anaga here and the lofty cliffs form an imposing backdrop. Though popular in summer, this beach is generally free from crowds. There is parking close by, or you can use bus number 946 to reach the beach from Santa Cruz or Taganana.

Playa de Roque Bermejo

This beach is only accessible via a 9 kilometre loop hike from Chamorga. Here is a map of the trail . This is a beautiful black sand beach, and the hike itself is also very picturesque.

Playa de Antequera

Playa de Antequera is another breathtaking black sand beach that can’t be reached by car. This spot is only accessible by boat or via hiking trails. There are a few ways to reach it. Here are a couple of these: Semáforo de Anaga – Playa de Antequera hike or Playa de Antequera – Las Casillas hike .

Playa del Tamadite

You’ll also need to hike if you want to visit this beach. It’s worth it for the incredible coastal views you can experience en route. We’ve already covered the Taganana to Playa del Tamadite hike above, which begins at the village of Taganana.

Once you get there, you can see powerful waves washing against the shore comprising black rocks and sand. It’s not a safe spot for swimming, but this photogenic beach by a deep ravine is the perfect picnic place.

Dine at the Local Restaurants

There are plenty of very good local restaurants in the Anaga area. They are particularly famous for serving authentic Canarian cuisine and delicious fish and seafood dishes. Here are a few of our favourites.

Restaurante Playa Casa Africa

This eatery is located near Playa del Roque de las Bodegas and serves simple, delicious seafood in a traditional, relaxed setting.

Restaurante La Ola

Restaurante La Ola is situated near Playa de Almáciga and serves some of the best value and highest quality local food available anywhere in Tenerife.

Guachinche Bibi y Mana

This restaurant is near Taganana village and has won a Tripadvisor Travellers Choice award for the standard of its Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine.

El Fronton can be found near Benijo, and there are exceptional views over the beach from here. There is private parking, so you can leave the car after your meal to spend time on the sands. Must-trys include the grilled seafood and Canarian potatoes.

Casa Picar is conveniently positioned in the centre of Taganana village. It’s great for meat, fish and tapas dishes.

Casa Santiago

The location of this restaurant on the TF-12 highway near La Laguna makes it a good place to go when visiting Mirador Cruz del Carmen or Mirador Pico del Inglés. Try authentic local fare here, and don’t miss the desserts and Barraquito coffee.

TENERIFE ESSENTIALS

To explore Tenerife to the fullest and at your own pace, we highly recommend renting a car. Our favourite place for car rental is the RentalCars website . It allows you to compare different providers and pick the best deal. You also get the best protection and flexibility for booking terms.

The unmissable top attractions in Tenerife are: Siam Park ( tickets here ), Loro Parque ( tickets here ) and Teide National Park ( cable car tickets + transfer ).

We also recommend taking at least one guided tour. Our favourite place for booking tours in Tenerife is GetYourGuide .

Top 3 excursions on the island:

A whale and dolphin watching (pick by location: Los Cristianos , Costa Adeje , Los Gigantes ).
Stargazing in Teide National Park
Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles

Our favourite websites for accommodation in Tenerife are: Booking.com (for hotels) and VRBO (for apartments and holiday homes).

The best hotels for families with kids (in our opinion) :

Luxury: GF Victoria (Costa Adeje) or Bahia Principe Fantasia (Golf del Sur) Mid-Range: Spring Hotel Bitácora (Playa de las Americas) or Iberostar Bouganville Playa (Costa Adeje) Budget: GF Isabel (Costa Adeje) or Paradise Park Fun Lifestyle Hotel (Los Cristianos)

The best adults-only hotels :

Luxury: Iberostar Grand El Mirador (Costa Adeje) or Gran Melia Palacio de Isora (Alcalá) Mid-Range: Tigotan Lovers & Friends (Playa de las Americas) or Iberostar Selection Sábila (Costa Adeje) Budget: Barceló Santiago (Puerto de Santiago)

Top hotels for everyone:

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama or Bahia del Duque (Costa Adeje) Mid-Range: Hard Rock Hotel (Playa Paraiso) or Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa (Costa Adeje) Budget: Alexandre Hotel Gala or Olé Tropical Tenerife (both Playa de las Americas)

Meet Jovita, co-founder of Enjoy Canary Islands. The archipelago is her favorite place on Earth. She visited all the islands multiple times and lived in Tenerife for a year. She is here to help you plan the best trip of your life.

For Further Reading

Shopping street in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tenerife Shopping Guide: The Best Shopping Centres + Tips

High waves crashing on natural pool in Bajamar

Visit Bajamar – The Northern Pearl of Tenerife

14 Most Beautiful Black Sand Beaches in Tenerife (+Map)

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Thank you so much for this article. It is helpful, very informative and to the point.

Visiting Punta de Teno in Teno Rural Park, Tenerife

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Teno Rural Park is considered one of the most beautiful and wild natural parks in Tenerife. It is located in an isolated area with limited access in the northwestern part of the island, and it covers nearly 19,800 acres within the municipalities of Buenavista del Norte, Los Silos, El Tanque, and Santiago del Teide.

We visited Parque Rural de Teno on one of our last trips to Tenerife and we were very surprised. We did not expect to find such beauty between its cliffs, laurel forests, and valleys, as well as great cultural richness. We also learned that this is the habitat of the laurel dove, an endangered species.

This park has become one of the best places to visit in North Tenerife because Punta Teno is located here. Punta de Teno is where the famous red and white painted lighthouse stands. This site is considered one of the best viewpoints in Tenerife, especially if you want to enjoy the incredible Punta de Teno sunset with the Los Gigantes Cliffs on one side.

Teno Rural Park is undoubtedly one of the best places to see in Tenerife , and you can go on your own or book an excursion if you don’t have too much time. If you choose the latter, I recommend booking this tour , which starts from Buenavista del Norte and will allow you to enjoy a walk to Punta del Teno.

If you want to know more about Teno, Tenerife , in this guide I’ll give you all the information you need about this beautiful rural park, including how to access Punta de Teno.

1. Punta de Teno Lighthouse, the most popular place in Teno Rural Park

Punta de Teno Lighthouse is one of the most popular places in Parque Rural de Teno. In fact, it creates one of the most well-known and recognizable images, as the lighthouse is painted red and white.

Punta de Teno Lighthouse, villa punta de teno

Its construction began in 1891, but it was not finished until 1893 and it did not start operating until 1897. From that moment on, it served as the home of the two lighthouse keepers who took care of it and their respective families. As with any house at that time, it had a dining room, bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom so that the lighthouse keepers and their families could live comfortably. Nowadays, the Punta de Teno Lighthouse in Tenerife is uninhabited and works automatically.

Although it’s located in a remote area with limited access, this Tenerife lighthouse has become one of the most visited places in the park. The lighthouse is located on cliffs and when you visit you can get a postcard image with the ocean and La Gomera in the background and Los Gigantes Cliffs on one side.

2. Punta de Teno Viewpoint, the most beautiful site in Teno Rural Park

Punta de Teno Viewpoint is one of the most beautiful places in Teno Rural Park, and it’s right next to the famous lighthouse that I just told you about.

Punta de Teno, rural de teno park, tenerife

Punta de Teno is a small peninsula that was formed millions of years ago as a result of flowing lava, which cooled and solidified when it reached the ocean. This is why, seen from the air, it is a rock formation that protrudes from the island and enters the ocean, making it the perfect viewpoint to see the Los Gigantes Cliffs .

From this scenic viewpoint, you will also get beautiful views of the ocean, with the island of La Gomera in the background, and you will be able to see one of the most beautiful sunsets on the entire island.

3. Teno Beach, a small beach with a lot of charm

Teno Beach is another great place to visit in Teno Rural Park . It is a small black sand beach located in Punta de Teno, which makes it quite special and beautiful. In fact, from here you will have beautiful views of the Los Gigantes Cliffs, so for this alone, it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Teno, Tenerife .

However, it’s not the best option for sunbathing because of the gravelly sand. Also, I recommend you wear booties if you want to swim at this beach, or you could hurt the soles of your feet. The water here is usually calm thanks to the small breakwater that surrounds it.

Teno Beach in Tenerife usually receives very few visitors due to its location, so if you’re looking for a virgin, wild, and quiet beach, it is undoubtedly one of the best options.

4. Masca Gorge, the most popular hiking route in Teno

The Masca Gorge is another place that you should visit in Teno, Tenerife , especially if you like hiking.

This popular hike consists of descending the ravine to Masca Beach and then ascending to return to the starting point. A few years ago, you were able to do the descent and then take a boat from the Masca jetty that connected with Los Gigantes. In fact, this is what we did, since the ascent is much harder, suitable only for people in very fit.

However, this option is not available at the moment since the pier is closed.

If you want to access Masca Gorge , you must request a free permit through this website . I recommend you do this in advance since the number of people who can access the ravine daily is very limited. You can also hire this tour with a guide , and the company that organizes it will process the permit for you.

If you think that the descent and ascent of the ravine are too much for you, but you want to know this essential part of the Natural Park of Teno , you can go to Caserío de Masca , from which you will get beautiful views of the mountains and ravines that surround the town.

For more information about this place in Teno, Tenerife , you can take a look at our specific guide.

5. See the Los Gigantes Cliffs from the sea

Los Gigantes Cliffs is another amazing place to see in Teno, Tenerife . Although you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Los Gigantes Cliffs from the Punta de Teno viewpoint, I recommend that you book a boat or kayak excursion so you can see them from the sea.

You can take this boat excursion that leaves from Punta de Teno , Tenerife, and goes to Masca Beach, where you will have time to swim if the weather is good. Then you will return to the starting point, so you’ll be able to witness the greatness of the cliffs in both directions, as well as La Gomera.

Los Gigantes Cliffs, villa luxury punta de teno tenerife

You can do the tour I just mentioned in a kayak if you book this excursion . Don’t worry if you’ve never been in a kayak before, as they will give you some basic guidelines and instructions, as well as proper safety measures.

We chose the kayak tour, and we liked it a lot since it made us feel much closer to the cliffs. We felt very small next to them, so I assure you that once you are in the sea, you will understand why the indigenous people of Tenerife called them the “Walls of Hell” and believed that they signaled the end of the world.

6. Monte del Agua, a beautiful laurel forest in Teno Rural Park

Monte del Agua is one of the most beautiful places in Tenerife’s Teno Rural Park . It’s located between the municipalities of El Tanque, Los Silos, and Buenavista del Norte, and the route includes laurel forests, ravines, and abandoned farmhouses. Also, this is the place where two endemic Canarian bird species live, the Laurel Pigeon and the Bolle Pigeon, so you should keep your eyes peeled.

You should also know that while there are numerous routes and various ways to get to Monte del Agua, one of the most common trails is the one from Los Silos, which passes through Las Moradas and Cuevas Negras. It’s a loop that will allow you to discover the old houses of the shepherds and farmers who lived in Las Moradas, even though most of them are in ruins. This hike also goes past the uninhabited houses that have been overtaken by the vegetation in Cuevas Negras.

You will also be able to visit the Bucarón Ravine and Cochinos Ravine, where you’ll find Monte del Agua’s characteristic vegetation.

You can also get to Monte del Agua from Erjos. This path is a fascinating loop trail within Teno, Tenerife , that will allow you to discover the Aceviño tree, an endemic species recognizable by its small red fruits.

7. Risco Blanco, a trail in Teno Rural Park that will astonish you

Risco Blanco is another very popular trail within Teno Rural Park, Tenerife . It’s a one-way route that starts from El Molledo, a small town that’s part of Santiago del Teide; and ends at Risco Blanco, a volcanic rock of a characteristic whitish color located in Sierra de Teno, separating the Natero ravine and Seco ravine.

Risco Blanco, villa luxury punta de teno

The trail is less than 1.5 miles long, so this Punta de Teno hike can be done easily in an hour and a half. Just keep in mind that it’s another hour and a half to return to the starting point. The terrain on this route is fairly even, so it’s quite easy and suitable for everyone.

The best thing about this path is the view you’ll get along the way. You can contemplate the mountainous landscape of the area from Risco Blanco and, if you look towards the ocean, on clear days you can see La Gomera. Around here you also have a good chance of seeing some wild animals in their natural habitat, such as goats. So, if you enjoy walks, Risco Blanco is a good hike to do in Teno National Park .

8. Buenavista del Norte, one of the most beautiful villages near Punta Teno

Buenavista del Norte is one of the most charming towns in Teno, Tenerife . It’s also one of the towns that maintain Tenerife’s traditions and one of the most beautiful due to its location. Buenavista del Norte is surrounded by the wildest and most virgin landscapes on the island, most of which are considered protected areas.

I recommend you walk through its old town, which although simple, has some buildings with great historical value. One of them is Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios , which was built between 1513 and 1518 and honors the patron saint of the municipality, Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios. There are other religious buildings of great importance, such as the former convent of San Francisco, the Hermitage of San Sebastián and the Chapel of the Visitation, and Hacienda La Fuente.

Buenavista del Norte, punta de teno hike

You can also walk through Plaza de Los Remedios , one of the most important squares in Buenavista del Norte where many social and cultural gatherings take place.

Because of its privileged location, you can use Buenavista del Norte as a starting point to get to know some of the most iconic places in Teno Rural Park , such as Punta de Teno Viewpoint , Los Gigantes Cliffs, or Masca Ravine.

9. Los Silos, another village you should visit in Teno Rural Park

Los Silos is another beautiful town that you should visit if you’re going to be in Teno, Tenerife . It is a small town with a lot of history and gorgeous natural surroundings. It’s also very quiet, so it’s the perfect place to spend a day away from the tourist crowds, mingle with locals, and enjoy the tranquility in a remote and wild environment.

Los Silos, punta de teno tenreife how to get there

I recommend you stroll through its historic quarter, where you’ll find cobblestone streets, houses with typical Canarian facades, and traditional mansions. You should also visit Caseta del Telégrafo, the church of Nuestra Señora de la Luz, and the former convent of San Sebastián, which was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1986. Also, you should definitely visit Salinas de La Caleta , a place that has become a way of life for generations and tells part of the history of Los Silos.

Remember that the route to Monte del Agua that I told you about before starts from this town and passes through Las Moradas and Cuevas Negras. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular hikes in Teno Rural Park , so keep it in mind if you come here.

10. Altos de Baracán, one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Parque Rural de Teno

Finally, another place that you can visit in Teno Rural Park is the Altos de Baracán viewpoint .

Considered one of the best viewpoints in Tenerife , it’s located 2,640 feet above sea level and at a strategic point that allows you to see the difference in scenery between the northern and southern parts of Tenerife. More specifically, the lookout point is located right on the TF-436 road, which connects El Palmar Valley and the town of Las Portelas with Masca, right at the southeast end of the Teno Massif.

Altos de Baracán, teno national park tenerife

Altos de Baracán also has beautiful views of Barranco de Los Carrizales, the Mountain of El Palmar, and the Valley of El Palmar.

To get to this lovely spot in Teno Rural Park you will need a car, although there are also buses that go there.

The road to Teno, Tenerife, the only way to get to Punta de Teno

Surely by now, you have many questions about how to access Punta de Teno, Tenerife since it’s a remote place that can be difficult to get to.

You can reach Punta de Teno and the lighthouse by car from the town of Buenavista del Norte via the TF-445 road. What you should keep in mind is that it’s a complicated road where landslides are frequent, so there are specified times when you can access it, which you can check here . This is to ensure the safety of visitors, as well as to protect and preserve the environment. Honestly, I’m not sure if I consider this place for a less than a 7-day itinerary to Tenerife .

You can also arrive by guagua , which is the Canarian bus. In this case, you must take line 369, which leaves from the Buenavista del Norte station and has the bus schedule posted online here . Another option to get to Punta Teno is by booking this hiking tour .

The road to Teno, punta de teno how to get there

There is another road in Teno, Tenerife , which will also be useful if you want to get to know Masca. It connects Buenavista del Norte and Santiago del Teide, passing through the town. If you don’t have a car, you can take a guagua , specifically line 355, which connects Buenavista del Norte, Masca, and Santiago del Teide. You can check the schedules here .

And finally, the TF-82 highway also crosses Teno Rural Park and connects to Icod de los Vinos, Garachico, El Tanque, Los Silos, Santiago del Teide, Guía de Isora, and Costa Adeje.

Where to stay in Teno Rural Park

When we visited the natural park of Teno , we decided to stay at the Los Pedregales campsite . This is one of the best spots to camp in Tenerife thanks to its convenient location near Punta de Teno , which is accessible via public transportation or renting a car in Tenerife .

Be aware that you can only camp here in a tent since Los Pedregales does not have spaces for RVs. That said, this is undoubtedly one of the best options if you want to be in direct contact with nature, although I admit that it can be uncomfortable if you’re not used to sleeping in a tent.

If you are looking for something more comfortable, Teno has some of the best rural vacation homes in Tenerife. For example, you can stay at Finca el Castillo in Buenavista del Norte, which offers well-equipped independent apartments with a shared pool, garden, barbecue area, and other facilities.

Sweet Home Masca is a good place to stay in Masca, as it’s a well-equipped rural house with beautiful views.

These are some other accommodations we recommend:

Viña Camello , a beautiful rural house in Buenavista del Norte
Villa Luxury Punta de Teno , an upscale villa in Buenavista del Norte
Casa Rural Morrocatana , a rural house with good facilities in Masca

Where to eat in Teno Rural Park

You will find some very good restaurants in Teno de Tenerife . One of my top recommendations is El Guanche in Masca. It’s the oldest restaurant in the area, so it’s worth going here just for the traditional architecture and details. Here, you can order typical Canarian cuisine as well as vegan and vegetarian options. The atmosphere here is very cozy, making it one of the best restaurants in Tenerife .

El Guanche restaurant, punta de teno hike

You can also go to Bodegón Patamero in Buenavista del Norte, specifically in the Las Lagunetas area. Here, you’ll find some typical dishes from the islands, although I recommend you order croquettes and the queso asado . Thankfully, we reserved a table in advance, and I suggest you do the same since it can get very crowded.

I also recommend Restaurante El Burgado in Buenavista del Norte. It’s in a convenient location and serves great food for a very good price. Plus, the treatment is top-notch, so we really enjoyed our time there.

Teno Rural Park map

Now that you know Teno Rural Park and everything there is to do in it, here is a map so you can locate all those places that I have mentioned:

I hope that this guide on things to do in Teno, Tenerife , has helped you learn more about this beautiful site so you can fully enjoy your visit. Of course, if you have any questions or want to share your experience, you can leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!

Enjoy your time in Tenerife’s Parque Rural de Teno !

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Ascen Aynat

12 Prettiest Towns in Tenerife to Visit (or Stay in) on Your Trip

With so many beautiful places that you can find on each corner, it can be difficult to understand which towns in Tenerife to visit on a trip. Some are quite popular and pop up in all guides while others may seem to be unknown and not worth discovering when looking on the map.

I visited the majority of towns in both southern and northern Tenerife and fell in love with the number of them to such an extent that decided to write this post about the best towns in Tenerife from my own perspective. In the end, I also include them all on a map.

So take a look and get inspired. Several towns from this list are great not only for a quick visit but also for a stay since they have nice accommodation options and easy access to activities.

And for the most authentic experience , rent a car in Tenerife and go on a slow road trip around the island making a stop in each of these most beautiful towns and spending some time there exploring their streets!

Most Beautiful Towns in Northern Tenerife

I want to start my list of the best towns to visit in Tenerife with towns in the northern part of the island. As I am based in the north, I think this is absolutely a unique and gorgeous region to explore!

La Orotava – Heritage Town

La Orotava could not stay out of this list. It is undeniably a gem among all the nicest towns in Tenerife. Situated in the green and lush Orotava Valley with ancient colonial architecture and vibrant floral displays, this town exudes a unique charm that captivates visitors from near and far. Its cute narrow streets create a mysterious ambiance that transports you to another era.

One of the most striking features of La Orotava and one of the reasons to visit this town is its well-preserved historical center . Strolling through the cobblestone streets opens up a few striking mansions with intricately carved wooden balconies and colorful facades . These architectural treasures are a true testament to the La Orotava’s rich heritage that offers a glimpse into its colonial past.

When you get to the town, go to the main square Plaza de la Constitucion , a focal point of charm and elegance. Surrounded by colorful buildings, with a beautiful fountain and vibrant flowers with plants, it adds a burst of color and enhances the overall allure of the town.

Don’t miss the garden Jardin de la Quinta Roja with a perfect landscape. It showcases a variety of indigenous and exotic flora, creating a tranquil oasis in the heart of the town. On the premises of the garden and around La Orotava, you’ll find some breathtaking panoramic views (among the best views in Tenerife ) from various vantage points.

On top of everything, to finish the list, La Orotava is rich in cultural events (truly those that are worth visiting!). It hosts traditional festivals and celebrations throughout the year, where locals proudly showcase their customs, music, and gastronomy.

No matter when you travel to Tenerife, I suggest you check the calendar of events. There is always something going on in La Orotava and you may not even know about it.

If you are coming to Tenerife around Easter, don’t miss Semana Santa celebrations . When visiting in June , go to The Corpus Christi festival. This event is a very unique (one of its kind) thing to see in Tenerife which is all about the vibrant floral carpets adorning the streets.

Should You Stay in La Orotava Town?

La Orotava is a good place to stay in Tenerife if you want to have an active holiday and be in one of the oldest towns with colonial architecture. I wouldn’t be staying here during the entire length of your vacation but for a night or two is a very unique experience.

Its central location provides convenient access to various attractions, including the Teide National Park, Puerto de la Cruz (which is overcrowded with tourists), nearby beaches, and other towns that are on this list.

Look into Hotel Alhambra which is a good example of a luxurious Canarian home or Pension Silene guesthouse on a budget.

El Sauzal – Historic Town With Dramatic Views

One of the other prettiest towns in Tenerife you want to visit is El Sauzal, a lesser-known destination with dramatic views and incredible sunsets. I didn’t see it on any list in any guide but discovered this gem on my own when living in Tacoronte next to this town.

El Sauzal is the town and capital of the municipality with the same name. It received its name from the willow tree as a large number of Canarian willow trees grow here.

Archaeologists who have excavated this territory unveiled compelling evidence of El Sauzal’s historical significance prior to the Spanish conquest as they discovered twelve intricately designed Guanche caves. Following the conquest, El Sauzal emerged as the vibrant political and administrative hub of the island with the Church of Saint Peter the Apostle becoming a prestigious residence of Tenerife’s esteemed ruler (it was converted into a church later).

Once you visit and stroll through the town’s streets, you will surely notice how old buildings are and that many of them look like hiding lots of history behind their walls.

This cute Tenerife town offers a multitude of reasons to visit and explore its charming surroundings. I’d say that you have to come here to walk through the flower alleys that offer a view of beautiful colorful Canarian houses, go down to one (or all) observation deck , which offers gorgeous views.

In fact, what makes El Sauzal unique apart from its picturesque corners is its location, which opens up incredible panoramic views on all sides. Since the town is located on a cliff, it becomes a natural viewing platform from which you can enjoy views of the Volcano Teide, the La Orotava Valley, and the Atlantic Ocean with Puerto de la Cruz on the horizon.

After long walks, stop for coffee or hamburguesa in one of the cafes, go on a scenic hike, to the House of Wine , and stay longer for the sunset .

I invite you to read my mini guide to El Sauzal to discover all its charming hideaways and best things to do.

Should You Stay in El Sauzal Town?

El Sauzal is a fantastic town where to stay for expats and people who move to Tenerife for a longer period of time. But on a short vacation and when you are visiting the island for the first time, it is not the best pick in terms of accommodation.

On Airbnb there are a few nice flats in El Sauzal which are great for at least a one month stay.

Bajamar – Town of Big Waves & Pools

From El Sauzal, I suggest you take the road TF-16 to go north to the next beautiful town in northern Tenerife called Bajamar. On the way there, you’ll get to drive through Tacoronte, Valle de Guerra, and Tejina looking through the window of your car at other smaller towns and villages.

Bajamar is very different from El Sauzal as it is situated along the coast and known for a few of its lovely (but different in nature) pools . Besides them, it also boasts impressive coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs and rugged rock formations with volcanic rocks along the coastline . It’s an ideal place for nature lovers and photographers, offering plenty of picturesque spots to capture moments.

If you get to visit Tenerife in winter, you should come to Bajamar for the largest waves on the island . Being exposed to the open Atlantic Ocean and having a deep ocean floor near the coast leads to larger swells and more powerful waves along its shores in the winter. This makes Bajamar a popular destination for surfers and photographers who love the thrill of big waves.

Overall, you should come to Bajamar for the scenery! It is very different from any other city, town, or village in Tenerife.

And then of course make a stop at one of the local seafood restaurants or local eateries as they offer freshly caught fish and seafood dishes.

Should You Stay in Bajamar?

Similar to El Sauzal, Bajamar is also a good town where to live as an expat or digital nomad. It has some beautiful homes for rent in close proximity to the sea.

Alternatively, if you are on a road trip around the island and don’t have one long-term base, Bajamar can be a good place where to stay for a night before moving to the next destination.

There are not really any hotels in Bajamar but some privately owned casas or seafront apartments. Take a look at them here .

Punta del Hidalgo – Gateway to the Sea & Mountains

Next to Bajamar, less than 3 km away lies another town which is a fantastic place to visit in Tenerife. It also has a cool swimming pool among the mountains and jaw-dropping views.

Generally, Punta del Hidalgo is famous for the hiking and nature trails , particularly the one that starts by Mirador Punta del Hidalgo and goes through the rugged mountains to Chinamada village (famous for cave houses in some ways similar to those in Cappadocia ).

But besides them, there is also a coastal trail that goes from the town to a small chapel right here and passes by a recent project Punta de Hidalgo lighthouse .

For the best experience if you don’t plan to go hiking, I suggest you come to this town in the early evening to walk around it and possibly spend some time by the pool.

And afterward, take this scenic coastal trail to the lighthouse and chapel , not missing all the information boards along the way. They provide interesting details about the area, migrating birds, and marine megafauna in this part of the island. Very interesting!

Is Punta del Hidalgo a Nice Town Where to Stay?

Unlike the previous two towns, Punta del Hidalgo is a nice place to stay in northern Tenerife to disconnect from the world and be in a unique place on the island.

There are a few nice hotels here with close access to the natural pools and restaurants. Every time I was coming here after a long day of work, every time I was seeing how many Spanish tourists were choosing this town.

Atlantis Park Resort is a very popular hotel here. But for a truly special stay, choose Papayya Cottage with mountain views and eco and sustainable approach in close proximity to all hiking spots.

Candelaria – Tenerife Town of Cultural Significance & Guanche Presence

Candelaria, in the northeastern part of Tenerife, also deserves its place among the most beautiful towns on the island due to its irresistible charm and rich cultural significance.

One of the town’s most prominent attractions is the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria . It stands as a testament to the deep-rooted religious devotion of the Canary Islands and its hallowed walls hold the revered statue of the Virgin of Candelaria, who is the patron saint of the archipelago.

Pilgrims and travelers from far and wide flock to this sacred site, seeking solace, inspiration, and a connection to the rich spiritual heritage of the Canarian people.

When you make a stop here, park outside the old town area and walk towards the Basilica along the coastal road in this way discovering a deep appreciation for the indigenous Guanche culture that once thrived on the islands. Monuments and statues paying homage to the Guanches dot the town, offering glimpses into their mysterious and vibrant past.

Legends whisper that it was in Candelaria where the Guanche leaders and their sacred idols were unearthed, forever linking the town to this ancient civilization. So walk around and feel the echoes of history resonating through the streets.

Beyond its cultural significance, Candelaria also boasts a few beautiful black sand beaches . Playa de Candelaria and Playa de Punta Larga with their velvety dark sands, provide a striking contrast against the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. There, you can bask in the sun and listen to the rhythmic lullaby of the waves. The black sand and rugged beauty of the coastline are a constant reminder of the volcanic origins that shaped Tenerife.

Should You Stay in Candelaria?

As a tourist, I wouldn’t be staying in Candelaria unless this is a returning trip to Tenerife and you want a new location. Another reason to stay here if you are on a budget and traveling by car while on a road trip.

Other than that, this town is a nice pick for that time when you come to live in Tenerife and want to be in close proximity to the capital city Santa Cruz.

Icod de los Vinos – Town of Banana Plantations, Wine & Oldest Tree

Icod de los Vinos is a typical Canarian town with old streets with snow-white houses with carved balconies in the traditional colonial style , several churches, and a cute small picturesque square. The town is small, so it seems at first that you can get around it in an hour or two.

While it is true to some extent, let me tell you that Icod de los Vinos holds a significant place as one of the island’s most important and oldest towns. And it offers quite a few activities from the list of the best things to do in northern Tenerife . So you may end up spending there half a day at least.

Its strategic location near the coast and fertile lands made it an important center for agriculture, particularly banana plantations and vineyards. This is why the production of exquisite wines and banana cultivation are quite big here.

When visiting, it is an absolute must to go to a banana plantation in the center of the town like Casa del Platano and stop for banana (cacti and other fruit) wine tasting in locals shops. Fruit wines that are made here are very similar to wines I tried in Sirince village in Turkey but some are truly authentic (like melon and papaya wine).

Also, don’t leave without seeing the iconic El Drago Milenario , a thousand-year-old dragon tree that stands as a symbol of the Icod de las Vinos resilience and natural beauty. This ancient tree is a living testament to the town’s deep-rooted connection with its environment and is considered one of the oldest and largest trees in the world.

El Drago Milenario oldest tree in the world

Is Icod de los Vinos a Good Town Where to Stay?

It can be a good place to stay in Tenerife if you enjoy a quieter setting and want to be in a traditional Canarian town with convenient access to nearby attractions.

Note that Icod de los Vinos, even though being one of the most popular tourist destinations, doesn’t have big hotels and resorts. But it is full of rural-style hotels and heritage homes like Hotel Emblematico San Agustin or Hotel Emblematico San Marcus . This is why you get a very homey feeling and authenticity.

This town is also a wonderful pick for where to stay in Tenerife for budget travelers who want to visit Teno Mountains and see in depth places in northern Tenerife.

Garachico – Town Rebuilt on Volcanic Ash

Garachico is not just a nice town in Tenerife. It is one of the most historic and epoch-making places as well as one of the main cultural and historical centers in Tenerife.

After getting here, you’ll feel a sharp contrast with the popular southern resort towns. The atmosphere here is most reminiscent of Spain of the Iberian Peninsula rather than the Canary Islands.

Garachico is a reborn town from the 18th century, which was rebuilt on frozen lava . Historical buildings here have been restored during the 18th and 19th centuries after the eruption of the Trevejo volcano in 1706 and many of them have info boards telling their story.

The architecture of the Garachico looks like hundreds of years ago with many shops that outwardly do not look like them, merging with the architecture of the old town. The narrow streets of the town look very romantic and invite for leisurely walks with a camera.

Within the city borders, you’ll find famous volcanic swimming pools that stand as tranquil sanctuaries. Each pool offers a distinct character and serves great for swimming and sunbathing.

Should You Stay in Garachico?

Garachico is a wonderful town to consider for your stay in Tenerife that provides a delightful combination of history, natural scenery, and tranquility. Similar to Icod de los Vinos, it doesn’t have big resorts or spa & wellness hotels but is bustling with traditional Canarian homes and boutique properties.

You should especially consider staying here when on a road trip around Tenerife.

Look into unique properties like Hotel LIVVO in the town center or something more modern and with sea views like Casa Canaria Asera .

Best Towns to Visit in Tenerife South

Southern Tenerife also has a few really nice and pretty towns. The majority of them are too touristy and were designed for tourists. So below I mention those that are quiet and inviting and offer a beautiful time.

Los Gigantes – Tenerife Town of Impressive Cliffs & Beach Feel

One of the most famous Tenerife towns Los Gigantes is ideal not just for a visit but for a stay for people who come to Tenerife for the first time. It offers a quiet comfortable area together with beautiful scenery, fishing opportunities, diving, boat trips on yachts and access to beaches with black volcanic sand.

If you are staying in the south of Tenerife in another town, come here on a quick trip just to check out the area which is beautiful.

Los Gigantes is famous for its huge cliffs and pretty setting. In fact, the town derives its name from the towering cliffs that dominate the coastline, reaching heights of up to 800 meters (2,600 feet). They create a breathtaking backdrop against the beach and offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

In addition to its natural beauty, there is a range of attractions and activities for visitors in town. For example, a charming marina is a strating point for many boat trips and excursions to explore the nearby waters, including dolphin and whale watching tours. The sea around Los Gigantes is home to a diverse marine life , making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.

The town itself has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, with a selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops along its streets. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, relax on the sandy beach, or indulge in delicious seafood dishes at the waterfront restaurants.

If you ever go, make a stop the Tea House and Bar with a big selection of teas and nicely served arrays of scones, cakes and sandwiches.

Is Los Gigantes a Good Town to Stay?

Los Gigantes is a fantastic town to consider for your stay in Tenerife, especially if you are visiting for the first time and looking for a quiet place.

Los Gigantes’ location offers breathtaking views of the iconic cliffs that give the town its name. Additionally, the town boasts a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere , making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

It is also renowned for its marina, where you can go on boat trips to explore the nearby sea caves and encounter marine life such as dolphins and whales. With a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as easy access to beautiful beaches like Playa de la Arena, Los Gigantes is a nice place where to stay.

There are not really many full-scale hotels though. But you’ll be able to find scenic apartments like Acantilados apartment with a view or Casa Amber .

Los Cristianos – Beach Resorts & Entertainment

best town in Tenerife for a beach vacation

Los Cristianos is a small town in the south of Tenerife that is too popular among tourists as it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

If you don’t plan to stay there or nearby, I wouldn’t really go to this town as it’s promenade, beaches, and atmospehere are very similar to other towns along the south coast. Instead, I’d recommend you go explore other regions of Tenerife that I mentioned above.

The only thing that differs here in comparison with other towns is the beaches with golden sand . Also, that along with Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos has a reputation for being very quiet and peaceful with some nice hotels on the first lane. It will suit perfectly couples with children or those who prefer to unplug on vacation and take it really slowly. In addition, it has all the conditions for people with disabilities.

The golden sand beaches of Playa de Los Cristianos and Playa de las Vistas provide a perfect setting for relaxing, swimming, sunbathing, or indulging in various water sports such as jet skiing, snorkeling, and diving.

There is also a picturesque harbor next to the beach that serves as a departure point for boat trips and excursions. From here, you can hop on a ferry to the nearby island of La Gomera or join a boat excursion for whale and dolphin watching.

Is It a Good Idea to Stay in Los Cristianos?

With its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches , a range of amenities, and attractions for visitors to enjoy, Los Cristianos is also a great choice for a stay on the island.

In fact, this town is home to a few nice all-inclusive hotels for a lower budget (like H10 Big Sur or Arona Gran Hotel ) or hotels with kitchens like Ohasis Boutique Suites , Gran Oasis Resort .

El Medano – Coastal Hiking & Windsurfing

A small, not so much known town of El Medano is situated not far from the airport in the south of Tenerife. It has a very limited number of hotels, that’s why the majority of people rarely visit it.

But El Medano is famous for a few things. First one – for the surfing , windsurfing , and kitesurfing opportunities as the town is located in a rather windy place. Those who do not know how to surf can take surf lessons from local couches that don’t cost a lot. Wetsuits and boards are available for rent for an additional fee.

Another feature that makes El Medano a nice Tenerife town to visit is the number of hiking/walking trails in the area .

For those who would like to explore the coastal zone on foot, there is a good choice to climb the “Red Mountain” ( Montana Roja ) which is visible from many points. It offers extraordinary views that give an idea of the area and its relief. From there you can even see the runway of the South Airport.

Red Mountain near Tenerife south airport

Not far from the Red Mountain within El Medano town limit, there is also a ranch “ Casa Caballo ” offering horseback riding for adults and children.

On the other side of the town, three kilometers away, is Montaña Pelada which translates as “Bald Mountain”. This is a natural monument with a territory that is under protection. It is a volcanic formation with a huge crater, which is about one kilometer in diameter. In the past, a volcano ejected lava into the Atlantic Ocean here, forming large clouds of smoke from evaporating water.

And then when you are in the area and crave Chinese food, this restaurant has a good selection and quality. Overall the plaza where it is located has quite a few nice establishments with drinks and food.

Should You Stay in El Medano?

El Medano is also not a bad option where to stay in Tenerife but mainly if you are on a tight budget and want to be close to other towns along the southern coast.

The choice of nice hotels is very limited in El Medano and the main type of accommodation here is apartments and shared houses.

Alcalá – Quiet Town With Luxurious Hotels

Another quite unknown and somewhat hidden town on Tenerife’s southern coast is Alcala, once a bustling fishing village that turned into a resort town with a couple of nice resort hotels for couples.

Of course, if you are staying in northern Tenerife, coming here directly doesn’t make much sense. But if you are on a road trip around Tenerife or if you are based in the south and want to explore the coast, don’t miss Alcala town with a few beaches and beautiful coastal trails.

This town boasts a small pier with fishing boats where you can practice various water sports. In close proximity to the pier, almost on every street, there are some delectable seafood restaurants with dishes made with fresh catches of the day. Additionally, the pier area is home to a sailing school that offers private lessons for those interested.

Situated just a 30-minute drive away from the lively atmosphere of Costa Adeje, Alcala town provides a more serene and tranquil setting, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Not far from the town’s old center, more to the north, you’ll find a public pool one of the best natural pools in southern Tenerife.

Should You Stay in Alcalá?

Besides visiting, Alcalá is an excellent town where to stay in Tenerife as there are some prestigious hotels, recognized as some of the top accommodations in the Canary Islands like Palacio de Isora , Ritz Carlton , and Las Terrazas de Abama Suites .

Arona – Mountain Town in Tenerife

A small town Arona is quite different from all other towns on this list. It doesn’t have direct access to the coastline but is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and has a few attractions that make it worth a trip.

First, you can make a stop here quickly when going to Teide National Park or pay a separate visit on a day trip from Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, or another coastal town where you stay.

The most famous places in Arona are Camel Park and Jungle Park where the first park provides an opportunity to interact with camels and enjoy camel rides while the second park is a zoo and botanical garden, showcasing a variety of animal species and featuring entertaining shows.

Since Arona is situated in the heart of the Arona Mountains, there are also multiple trails that start from town and lead to some scenic areas. If you are a hiker, this is a place to go to and have a very different hiking experience than in Anaga or Teno mountains which are much more famous these days.

Should You Stay in Arona?

I’d say no unless you live in Tenerife and want to have a weekend break in a new unique town. Or unless you plan to go on a long hike and use public transportation to reach Arona. In this case, it will be smart to stay there until the next morning.

Map of the Best Towns in Tenerife

Have you visited any other beautiful towns in Tenerife that didn’t make this list? Share with me in the comments as I’d love to know. I have been everywhere on the island but wonder if there is anything that I missed!

Other Towns to Visit in Tenerife

Guimar in the Southeast – visit it for aloe, hiking by the volcano, and a rustic getaway

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Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Norway – best for summer travel

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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From hikes around volcanic Mount Teide, to exploring pretty towns and epic beach adventures, here’s how to spend an amazing 4 days in Tenerife.

Have you visited Tenerife before? Known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, amazing beaches, and fun, family-friendly vibes, Tenerife is an island I find myself going back to time and time again, especially when I’m in desperate need of some winter sun !

I think Tenerife is a destination that’s tricky to plan a trip to. Why? Well, the beaches are so lovely, you could easily laze around for your whole holiday. When you return home to tell your friends about the trip, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get out and do more!

So, if you’re looking for things to do on a short island break, I’ve popped together the best way to spend 4 days in Tenerife .

I’ve broken my itinerary into separate days, with a theme for each one. From beach days and boat trips, to hiking days and wine-filled experiences, you’re bound to find something that suits you here!

I’d suggest using this Tenerife itinerary as a starting point for your plans. Pick a couple of things from the suggested activities on each day and then use that as a base for your adventures.

A Guide On How To Spend 4-Days In Tenerife

Day 1: beaches and boat trips, enjoy the beaches of santa cruz.

So, Santa Cruz is known for a lot of cool coastal activities, but one of my favourites has to be the Piscinas Naturales Los Abrigos , otherwise known as Santa Cruz Natural Pools. These gorgeous tidal pools are fed from the sea so you can take a plunge overlooking the water in relative safety.

If relaxing on golden sand beaches is more your speed, there are dozens of gorgeous beaches to check out in the Santa Cruz area. Playa de las Teresitas is by far the most famous and popular, stretching for 1.5 miles, and filled with loungers, golden sand, and dreamy palm trees.

Beach Las Teresitas in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

If you’d rather hit the water in Santa Cruz, I really loved this kayaking tour along the coastline. We saw dolphins last time too, so make sure you bring a camera (and a waterproof case) and keep your eyes peeled!

Go whale watching on the Los Cristianos Coast

Located around the corner of the popular Costa Adeje area, you’ll find the beautiful Los Cristianos coastline . It’s one of the best places on the island for whale watching. I really think a whale-watching tour like this one is a must-do if you’re only spending 4 days in Tenerife.

There are plenty of boat tours to choose from, but I’d recommend joining one that includes snorkelling, so you can get up close to the natural beauty of the area!

Day 2: Hiking, National Parks, and Volcanos

Explore mount teide national park.

I could hardly come up with a four-day Tenerife itinerary without including a day exploring Mount Teide National Park! It’s absolutely amazing – you will love it!

Home to the highest peak in the whole of Spain, there are tons of trails to check out, including some that take you all the way to the Pico Viejo crater. Alternatively, you can jump on the Mount Teide Cable Car to the top.

If you’re looking for an absolutely unforgettable experience on Mount Teide, I’d recommend booking a stargazing tour . I’ve done similar tours in other countries, and they’ve been amazing. The lack of light pollution and the high altitude, it’s the ideal place to see the stars.

Enjoy views of the forest and coast in Teno Rural Park

If you’re looking for hiking routes offering a mix of coast and forest time, head to Teno Rural Park . It’s a lot less crowded than Mount Teide, and you can even visit the historic Punta de Teno Lighthouse , which has beautiful panoramic views out across the water!

Discover the cloud forests of the Anaga Rural Park

It’s the dramatic and almost other-worldly landscapes that makes a holiday in Tenerife so special. For example, how would you love to see misty mountains and mysterious black sand beaches?

Just outside Santa Cruz is Anaga Rural Park . This is one of the main places in Tenerife to enjoy the famous volcanic black sand beaches, and I assure you it’s well worth the visit. You’ll also be able to enjoy the dreamy cloud forests and picturesque trails too – it’s such a special spot.

Day 3: Cultural Day Trips and Landmarks

San cristobal de la laguna.

Filled with colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and historic cathedrals, San Cristobal de la Laguna is a great place to visit in Tenerife. One of the best things to do in San Cristobal is visit the Drago Milenario. This special tree is actually the oldest dragon tree in the world and has to be seen to be believed!

San Miguel de Abona

If you love European history, try to find time in your four-day Tenerife itinerary for a trip to San Miguel de Abona.

With the stunning Castillo de San Miguel, a medieval-style castle with themed Knights tournaments, and plenty of natural spots like the Reserva Ambiental San Blas, it’s a perfect family day trip.

Enjoy a local food tour

If you’re anything like me then you can’t have an island holiday without a food tour! As Tenerife is home to amazing cheese farms and vineyards, this is the ideal adults-only excursion.

If you want to burn some calories at the same time, you could opt for a cycling food tour, where a local will take you around all the best spots for a few gourmet bites.

Day 4: Water Parks and Family Fun

Chill out at the césar manrique maritime park.

If you’re visiting Tenerife with little ones in tow, a day out at a water park has to be high on the itinerary. Located near Santa Cruz, César Manrique Maritime Park is one of the most beloved on the island. With a mix of saltwater pools, waterfalls, and sun decks to soak up the rays, it’s a great way to close out your Tenerife holiday.

This outdoor leisure centre also bears the unmistakable design stamp of Canary Islands’ legendary architect, César Manrique. I fell in love with his work in Lanzarote , and have been a huge fan ever since.

Get an adrenaline rush at Siam Park, Costa Adeje

Want to get one more adrenaline rush before you go home? Siam Park in Costa Adeje is a huge water park that’s full of high-octane slides, artificial beaches, whirlpools, and more.

Add in the world’s biggest man-made wave, and this is a top-tier water park that you have to check out! I’ve not managed to visit this one yet, but it’s definitely on my list. Unurprisingly, it’s one of the most popular places for families visiting Tenerife.

Learn how to surf in Santa Cruz

If you’re looking to learn a new skill on your trip to Tenerife, make your way to Santa Cruz for a surf lesson. Playa de las Américas is one of the best beginner surf beaches in the Canary Islands. The calm waters are ideal if it’s your first time on a board or if you want to take your shredding to the next level.

One of the cool things about this private surf lesson is that not only does it include all your equipment, but there’s also a surf photographer on hand to get snaps of you in the water! So, you get to learn a new skill, have tons of fun riding waves, and you get a souvenir to take home at the end of the day. Sounds like a perfect way to end your time in Tenerife!

I hope my guide helps you plan the perfect 4-days in Tenerife! Let me know what you decide to do or if you have any questions.

If you’re looking for more travel guides about the Canary Islands, take a look at these:

28+ AMAZING Things To Do In Lanzarote
10 Best Villages And Towns In Lanzarote
13 Best Coastal Cities in Spain
8 Hidden Gems To Get Off The Beaten Track In Lanzarote
Lanzarote Travel Blogs And Travel Guides
Lanzarote Wine Tour Review

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

The Most Beautiful Places in Tenerife

When you itemise Tenerife’s attractions it ends up sounding like a fantasy island – the best aspects of other destinations cobbled together in one spot: a Herzog & de Meuron-designed art gallery, a high-energy street carnival, sun-soaked wineries and Garachico’s ethereal natural pools. But this isn’t some mash-up of London, Rio, Provence and the Dolomites we’re talking about, it’s Tenerife, which, without making a big fuss about it, has been quietly maturing into one of Europe’s most exciting destinations, with extraordinary experiences such as whale-watching, star-gazing in Teide National Park, and some of the world’s best hotels, restaurants and spas.

Having carried a reputation as the Canaries’ party island for some time – all beach bars, pink drinks and all-night discos – Tenerife is now ready to show off its elevated, more cultured side, along with its natural splendour and lesser-known villages.

The National Parks: otherworldly landscapes and wildlife

Away from the city, there are two stunning national parks. The first, Parque Nacional del Teide, sits slap bang in the middle of the island, and is dominated by El Teide, the most imposing of the Canaries’ many awesome volcanoes, which at 3,718 metres is Spain’s tallest peak. The park’s 190 square kilometres comprise one vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an extraordinary place to explore; bizarre rock formations rear up out of nowhere, strange desert flora clings to the hillsides and the whole landscape feels haunting and otherworldly. It’s a fair hike up to the mouth of the volcano – better to take the cable car for an unmatched perspective of the entire island and even follow one of Volcano Teide ’s guides for an awesome session of sunsets and star-gazing (the lack of pollution reveals planets, galaxies and clusters in their full glory).

By contrast, Parque Rural de Anaga in the far north of the island is a lush, rugged paradise where stunning hiking trails cut through dense woodland and deep valleys carve astonishing views across ancient forests. A protected biosphere reserve, the park is home to an abundance of life including the island’s fabled dragon trees and a whole host of birds, among them shearwaters and owls. Up here you’ll also find some of Tenerife’s loveliest villages including Afur, a tiny whitewashed hamlet that sits prettily surrounded by hills. Other settlements in the north are similarly handsome, such as San Cristóbal de la Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and university town known as the ‘Florence of the Canary Islands’ for the many churches and brightly painted historical houses in its old centre. As the former capital of Tenerife, it's home to grande dames such as boutique La Laguna Gran Hotel , a bastion of traditional Canarian architecture and design with a genteel interior courtyard and rooftop pool.

Santa Cruz: culture and food

Tourists have long been drawn to the south of Tenerife with its resorts, beaches and booming nightlife, but the real hub of the island is its capital, Santa Cruz. Here you’ll find Herzog & de Meuron’s strikingly beautiful modern-art gallery, Tenerife Espacio de las Artes (TEA), which houses a permanent collection of work by local surrealist Oscar Domínguez and a roster of first-class touring exhibitions. Santa Cruz is also home to Santiago Calatrava’s Auditorio, a 1,600-seat opera house and design marvel which sits on the water’s edge recalling a vast white helmet of a punk-rock charioteer.

But it’s not all edification. There’s a brilliant complex of swimming pools and restaurants, Parque Marítimo, designed by artist César Manrique, which is a glorious place to while away a sunny afternoon. And, although on hold this year due to Covid-19, February usually brings a month-long riot of a carnival, second only in size and stature to Rio de Janeiro’s, which rollicks around the old town’s streets, a samba-induced spectacle of sparkly outfits and animated costumes and devil-may-care debauchery.

The city is also the best place for top-rung restaurants, showcasing a combination of Spanish and Latin American-influenced plates, and using sun-ripened vegetables, fruit and fish plucked fresh from the sea. For a whistle-stop tour of the island’s tasty bounty, peruse the stalls at Mercado Nuestra Señora de Africa, then head to Santa Cruz’s smartest haunts such as La Posada del Pez and San Sebastián 57 where chef Alberto González Margallo’s fish dishes (particularly the black cherne and tuna tartare) demand a try. Taking centre stage in Tenerife’s more low-key, traditional food scene is the island’s famous papas arrugadas , deeply flavoured potatoes grown in rich volcanic soil which are boiled in seawater and then roasted until their skins crinkle. Locals eat them with grilled sardines and lashing of mojo rojo sauce made from red pepper and garlic. These, along with other traditional Canarian dishes, are best enjoyed at Mesón Los Angeles, which serves papas arrugadas with choco (cuttlefish) and mojo sauce, or alfresco at Santa Cruz’s Restaurante Casa Comida La Hierbita, a legendary spot that's been open for more than a century and is known for its puchero canario (Canarian stew) and locally led wine cellar.

Indeed, the real surprise is the quality of the island’s wine. The vines planted here by Spanish settlers some 500 years ago survived the devastating root louse epidemic which killed 90 per cent of European vines in the 19th century, leaving Tenerife with a host of grape varieties that you can’t find anywhere else. Make sure you try the heroic red Listán Negro (family-owned vineyard Tajinaste in the Valle de la Orotava produces a particularly good one, as does Bodegas Monje with its 500-year old vines creating an intense, volcanic character), and round off lunch or supper with a glass of sweet and aromatic Malvasía wine (try Brumas de Ayosa Malvasía Dulce).

The coastline: craggy walks, wild beaches and boat trips

And of course there is Tenerife’s glorious coastline. The big hotels are clustered around family-friendly strips of white sand, but the real draw here are the island’s wilder spots. At Los Gigantes on the west coast, the black cliffs surge from the water, creating scenery worthy of Game of Thrones . Sunset boat trips are the best way to appreciate the 600-metre-high cliffs and there is a saltwater lido at the base which gets bashed thrillingly by waves as you swim in its calm waters. For an alternative beach experience, try the wild black sands at Playa del Bollullo, near Puerto de la Cruz. Accessible only via footpath, the beach tends to be quiet, allowing you to explore its untamed beauty away from the crowds. For a breathtaking coastal walk, go to Almaciga up north in the Anaga national park where the path is cut into the rocks and the green cliffs tumble down to the water’s edge. And with 21 of the world’s 79 species of dolphin and whale circling the south of the island (at Puerto Colón and Los Gigantes) all year round, a whale-watching adventure is almost obligatory – there’s no better (or more sustainable) way to do it than aboard a catamaran followed by sundowners.

For a truly authentic Canarian experience, start in the charming little town of Garachico on the north coast. Once the island’s commercial hub, it was decimated by floods and then half-submerged in volcanic lava in 1706. Today, it’s a magical place of artisanal shops, rustic tapas joints and pretty coves that make for great sea swimming spots. Stay at historic boutique hotel San Roque (a sympathetically restored 18th-century Canarian manor house), or equally as splendid Hotel la Quinta Roja, a pastel-pink 17th-century mansion with a vast palm-filled courtyard and photogenic watchtower.

Brilliantly, all this is available all year round – we especially love Tenerife in September, after the summer rush and before the high winter season gets going, when the place is roomier and languidly lovely.

Gorgeous weather, thrillingly modern culture, spectacular beaches and unexpectedly stunning countryside – perhaps Tenerife is a fantasy island after all.

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Home » Europe » Spain » Tenerife

14 BEST Places to Visit in Tenerife (2024)

Tenerife is one of the most popular tourist spots in the world because it has nearly everything. It’s a great place to visit if you like your holidays to include sun-baked beaches, a vibrant nightlife, beautiful mountains, and lots of marine animals. That’s why there’s no end to the number of best places to visit in Tenerife.

When you visit Tenerife, you want your holiday to go exactly as planned. That means you need the best information in a convenient form. To help with that, we’ve created this list of the most popular and spectacular hotspots in Tenerife, no matter what you enjoy doing when you’re on vacation.

NEED A PLACE QUICK? HERE’S THE BEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN TENERIFE:

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Costa Adeje

The charming and lively town of Costa Adeje is our number one pick for where to stay in Tenerife if you’re visiting for the first time. Set on the island’s southwest coast, Costa Adeje is a vibrant city with dozens of beach bars and clubs, as well as restaurants, cafes and shops.

Go for a stroll along Playa del Duque, a black sand beach.
Lounge in the sun at Playa Fanabe.
Shop until you drop at Siam Mall.

If Costa Adeje doesn’t quite strike your fancy, be sure to check out where to stay in Tenerife . We’ve compiled all of our favourite areas for you! Now, onto the good stuff…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

#1 – Teide National Park – One of the nicer places in Tenerife to sightsee!

Mount Teide is a dormant volcano that dominates the landscape and is surrounded by a beautiful national park.
If you enjoy nature, then you’ll love exploring this park while you’re visiting Tenerife.

Why it’s so awesome: Mount Teide is Spain’s tallest peak and offers stunning views of the night sky because of the lack of light pollution. You’ll be able to see 83 out of the 88 registered constellations from this spot and that makes for a stunning night-time experience. The national park surrounding it is also one of the best in the region and should be on your Tenerife itinerary.

What to do there: There are trails all through the park for you to explore, and you’ll be struck by the stark and sometimes barren landscape. You should also make sure that you take the cable car from the main parking lot to the top of the mountain. This will give you a stunning view of Tenerife, and if you’re up there at night then you can do some stargazing.

#2 – Siam Park – Awesome place to visit in Tenerife with kids!

This is a Thai themed water park with the largest collection of Thai buildings outside of Thailand.
The park covers 48 acres, so there’s plenty to keep the kids occupied for hours.
This is considered to be one of the top attractions in Tenerife and perhaps in Europe.

Why it’s so awesome: This park has an amazing collection of water slides suitable for all levels. There are family-friendly slides for younger kids as well as a collection of slides for adrenalin seekers. There are also other attractions at the park such as a children’s play area called the Lost City, a wave pool, Thai restaurants, and a Thai floating market. There are loads of epic Tenerife Airbnbs around this area too!

What to do there: You could spend all day at this park and if you have kids then you probably will! Go on the slides and scream your way down the winding tunnels, wander through the floating market, and take surfing lessons in the wave pool. And when you get hungry, try out one of the Thai restaurants for an appropriately themed meal.

#3 – Museum of Science and the Cosmos – One of the most underrated places to see in Tenerife

An overlooked museum that will enhance your enjoyment of the night sky in Tenerife.
This museum has activities for all ages.

Why it’s so awesome: Museums aren’t that popular in Tenerife, and that’s a shame because this is a good one. If you find yourself enthralled by the night sky when you travel to Tenerife, you can learn more about it through the interactive displays at this museum.

What to do there: Take a break from the beach and educate yourself a little on what you see in the night sky. This museum is one of the most important in Spain and it combines traditional museum exhibits with interactive displays, astronomy evenings, and a planetarium. So, find out what’s on when you’re visiting Tenerife and show up for a fun and information visit.

#4 – Cueva del Viento

If you like unusual activities, then go caving when you travel to Tenerife!
Make sure you go with a guide, so you don’t get lost in the 18 kilometers of lava tubes.

Why it’s so awesome: You probably don’t think of tropical islands in connection with caves, which is why this is a Tenerife must do. The caves that run under Tenerife were caused by the passage of lava from volcanic eruptions. They run for 18km through the earth and contain fossils, lava lakes, and more than 190 species of unusual insects.

What to do there: This is one of the more unusual things to do in Tenerife, but it’s also extremely rewarding. So, if you aren’t claustrophobic, hire a tour guide and explore the maze of tunnels and caves. Keep an eye out for lava stalactites, fossils and lakes while you’re down there.

#5 – La Gomera

This is the quietest of the Canary Islands and the perfect area for a day trip.
You can reach this island from the boat in around an hour from Tenerife.

Why it’s so awesome: Part of the fun of visiting Tenerife is island hopping and finding unexpected sites and attractions. La Gomera is a much quieter island and it’s the perfect place for a relaxing visit. It contains the Garajonay National Park, where you can explore waterfalls, quiet lakes, and incredibly beautiful landscape in relative peace and quiet.

What to do there: Hire a boat to take you over and spend the day exploring. Take a packed lunch with you, just in case you can’t find somewhere good to eat and have a picnic under the trees. Explore the park and the town and then head back to Tenerife in the evening

#6 – Pirámides de Güímar Ethnographic Park – One of Tenerife’s coolest historical sites!

This park is home to some mysterious stone pyramids of unknown origins.
Make sure you spend time at the museum to learn about the theories surrounding the structures and similar ones around the world.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing like mysterious pyramids for creating controversy and crazy theories. The stone pyramids in this park were first discovered in the early 1990s and theories have sprung up about their purpose ever since.

What to do there: Explore the park and the pyramids and then head over to the Casa Chacona Museum to learn more about them. The museum focuses on the theories as well as similar structures around the world. Learn about this mysterious slice of the past makes for a fascinating couple of hours.

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#7 – Masca – An awesome place to visit in Tenerife for half a day!

A picturesque village where the locals once hid from pirates.
This makes for a perfect day trip and you can drive there on your own or arrange transport.
The Mesca hike, the most popular hike on Tenerife, is in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Tenerife isn’t just beaches and mountains. It also has a unique culture and history of its own and you can explore this history at Masca. This inland town was created as a hideaway, to save the locals from pirate attacks, and today it’s one of the most interesting Tenerife vacation ideas.

What to do there: Make sure you leave early when you’re visiting this town, as it can get crowded later in the day. Explore the town and then head to the restaurant overlooking the valley, where you can enjoy a great meal with spectacular views. If you like hiking, you should also try the Masca hike, which starts at the village and goes down to the beach. It’s about 7 kilometers long and offers spectacular scenery and the natural landscape along the way.

#8 – Playa de las Americas – Cool place to see in Tenerife with friends!

This is one of the best places to visit in Tenerife for a relaxing holiday.
You’ll find everything you could want to do during your holiday in this area, from great hotels to bars and the beach.

Why it’s so awesome: Playa de las Americas is a resort town, with everything that entails. You’ll probably end up staying in this area or close to it, and it’s a Tenerife must-do while you’re on the island. This area has everything from golden beaches to lively bars and fantastic restaurants, so it’s the perfect place to be entertained.

What to do there: If you’re lucky, you’ll get to stay in this area and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and variety of activities. Otherwise, you should at least spend a day exploring. Go down to the beach and relax or take part in some water sports, find a great restaurant for your evening meal, and then head over to a bar for a drink and some socializing.

#9 – Playa Bollullo – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Tenerife

This beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded attractions in Tenerife.
It’s a bit hard to reach the beach, but the black sand against the blue waters makes the effort worth it.

Why it’s so awesome: If you love the beach and want to see one without the crowds, then this beach is one of the best places to visit in Tenerife. It’s a black sand beach that’s considered to be the most beautiful on the island. Fortunately, the difficulty of the trip to the beach has left it mostly secluded, so you’ll be able to explore without the crowds.

What to do there: To get to the beach, you’ll have to walk through the banana plantations from Puerto de la Cruz or hire a car to take you along the narrow roads. But the effort is well worth adding this beach to your Tenerife itinerary because it’s stunningly beautiful. The tides can be a little rough though, so stay out of the water unless you’re a strong swimmer. There are no lifesavers to rescue you on this beach.

#10 – Los Cristianos – A great place to visit in Tenerife at night

A great alternative to Playa de las Americas.
You can go whale watching, dolphin spotting and fishing off these beaches.
The area is vibrant and lively, with lots to do in addition to the amazing beach.

Why it’s so awesome: if you find Playa de las Americas too crowded, this is a great alternative. It’s just as vibrant and lively, with stunning beaches, great bars, and restaurants serving up tasting treats. The area also has a great night scene that centers around the promenade and its beachfront attractions.

What to do there: Spend the day relaxing in this area. Go out on the water with a tour operator to see some of the area’s marine life, explore the local restaurants and their authentic treats, and then settle in a café and do some people watching. After it gets dark, hang around to enjoy the vibrant nightlife that makes this one of the best points of interest in Tenerife.

#11 – The Museum of Nature and Man – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Tenerife

This museum is located in Santa Cruz and contains lots of important artifacts about the history of Tenerife.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love this museum!

Why it’s so awesome: This is a relatively new museum that does a great job of bringing the Guanche aboriginal culture of ancient Tenerife to the modern world. The artifacts cover all aspects of ancient life, from native tools and carvings to mummies from around the world.

What to do there: If you’re interested in history, then this is one of the most important landmarks in Tenerife for you to explore. You’ll learn more about the culture of ancient Tenerife, from the earliest cultures to the arrival of the first European conquerors.

#12 – Piramide de Arona

This is the home of the Malizia Show, a live performance that blends Hispanic cultures with flamenco opera and dance.
This show is unique and awe-inspiring, one of the best things you’ll see when you travel to Tenerife!

Why it’s so awesome: The Malizia Show will captivate children and adults. It blends Hispanic cultures with dance and opera and is both beautiful and thought-provoking. It’s in Spanish, but you won’t need to understand the language to understand the meaning of the story of the dance. This is one of the best shows on Tenerife and perhaps one of the best in the world as well.

What to do there: Find out if the show is on while you’re visiting and make sure you get tickets to this Tenerife must-see. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or on your own, the show will enthrall and touch you, so don’t miss out.

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#13 – Anaga Rural Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Tenerife

One of the most spectacular attractions in Tenerife.
This area is almost magical, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Tenerife.

Why it’s so awesome: This park is almost magical with beautiful beaches and wild laurel trees. It also contains some of the most popular beaches on Tenerife, but there’s enough land for you to enjoy the natural surroundings in relative peace and quiet. Anaga Rural Park is located only an hour’s drive from other landmarks in Tenerife including La Laguna and Santa Cruz, so it makes for the perfect day trip.

What to do there: You can take a day trip to this part of the island and explore the beautiful natural surroundings as well as some of the best beaches in Tenerife. Just make sure that you check the weather report first. This part of the island can get foggy and overcast, particularly during the winter. When you’re there, take the Vueltas de Taganana pathway to explore the laurel forest. Go swimming at Benijo Beach and when you’re hungry, head to one of the restaurants there to enjoy some fresh seafood.

#14 – San Cristobal de la Laguna – A great place to see in Tenerife if you love architecture

This town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains lots of beautiful, historic buildings.
There are also several museums in the area that have great activities and exhibits for kids if they get tired of walking around staring at the architecture.

Why it’s so awesome: This town is stunningly beautiful and contains a lot of architecturally significant buildings. It’s located in the north of Tenerife and would make for a great day trip or some time away from the crowds. This city was once the capital of the Canary Islands and is now considered to be its cultural capital.

What to do there: You’ll need a couple of hours to explore this beautiful city, so make sure it’s a part of your Tenerife itinerary. The historical center is where you’ll find the most stunning buildings, so make sure you check out the Cathedral of La Laguna, Old City, Iglesia de la Concepción, the University of La Laguna, and the Real Santuario del Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna. This town is also home to great festivals such as Holy Week, the Holiday of the Cristo de La Laguna, and Romería de San Benito Abad. So, before you arrive, see if there are any special days during your trip and show up to enjoy the culture.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Tenerife

Which is the nicest part of Tenerife to visit?

Teide National Park is in my opinion the nicest part of Tenerife, especially for sightseeing.

What is Tenerife famous for?

Tenerife is known for its dormant volcano and rocky landscape, as well as stunning beaches with blue waters.

Is 3 days enough time to visit Tenerife?

There is so much to see and explore in Tenerife, you would ideally need at least a week to see everything.

Do you need a car to visit Tenerife?

Renting a car is the best way to see Tenerife, especially if you want to explore the coast.

Final Thoughts on the Coolest Places to Visit in Tenerife

Tenerife offers stunning beaches, beautiful wildlife, and the kind of relaxed and laidback holiday that people dream about. There are also lots of chances to get more active, if that’s your travel style, with lots of opportunities for activities in the great outdoors. This list is a guide that will help you to design the vacation of your dream when you travel to Tenerife. It includes the best and most interesting places to visit in Tenerife, so you know where to start once your plane touches down.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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Parque Rural de Teno

Description

Teno Rural Park is located in north-west Tenerife, in one of the first parts of the island to emerge from the sea, containing materials that are between 6 and 7 million years old.

Erosion has shaped the landscape over the ages, carving out deep ravines that run through these lands from summit to coast. The views from the heads of the ravines are breathtaking.

Recommended time to visit: Spring and Autumn.

On the northern edge of the park rise ancient sea cliffs that have been cut off from the sea by successive eruptions, which in turn created the coastal plains known today as Isla Baja. You can view this landscape from the limits of the Rural Park, where the towns of Garachico, Los Silos and Buenavista are located.

This northern flank, constantly exposed to the trade winds, is home to one of the largest swathes of monteverde forest in the Canary Islands, Monte del Agua y Pasos, covering an area of more than 600 hectares.

Here you can also find the last pockets of the best preserved thermophilic woodland on the island, dominated by palm trees and dragon trees.

On the southern slopes the climate is sunnier and drier, resulting in a landscape dominated by retama (Retama rhodorhizoides) and tabaiba (Euphorbia balsamifera, Euphorbia lamarckii), with the remains of old terraces, rocky outcrops and ravines carved by water. The complex and extensive network of volcanic dykes exposed on these slopes helps us to better understand how the Canary Islands were formed.

The south-west limit of the park is marked by the Los Gigantes Cliffs, an emblem of the park and of Tenerife as a whole.

Some of the villages were cut off from the rest of the island until well into the 1970s, when roads finally reached the remotest outposts. As a result, traditional architecture, livestock and agricultural practices and many cultural traditions have survived largely unchanged to the present day.

Flora and fauna

The isolation of Teno, together with the wide range of conditions found in this mountainous massif, have made it a refuge for biodiversity, home to populations of endangered species and unique plants and animals found only in the park.

These cliffs are also the habitat of the last remaining populations of the Tenerife speckled lizard, a species that can reach a length of up to 50 centimetres and that has been saved from extinction by its isolation.

Other highlights of the fauna of Teno are the laurel pigeon and Bolle’s pigeon, endemic Canary Island species that inhabit the monteverde ecosystem, and which you can see feeding in the thermophilic woodland. Also of special importance are the colonies of Scopoli’s shearwater and other seabirds, with thousands of pairs breeding every year on the cliffs.

Interesting routes

PR TF 51.1 Los Carrizales

More information

PR TF 52 Erjos - Las Portelas

PR TF 52.1 Monte del Agua via Las Huertas

PR TF 52.2 Monte del Agua via Las Lagunetas

PR TF 53.1 Cuevas Negras Tierra del Trigo spur trail

PR TF 54 Las Moradas

PR TF 55 Talavera

PR TF 56 El Palmar - Casas de La Cumbre

PR TF 57 Callejón de Teno

PR TF 58 Camino del Risco

PR TF 59 Las Portelas - Masca

Monte del Agua Accessible Trail

SA PRT 02 Sendero accesible Finca los Pedregales

Finca los Pedregales Accessible Trail

SIA PRT 02 Itinerario autoguiado Finca los Pedregales

Finca los Pedregales Self-Guided Trail (Route 2)

Teno Alto Self-Guided Trail

PR TF 51 San José de Los Llanos - Punta de Teno

PR TF 53 Cuevas Negras

Technical information sheet

Surface area.

8063.6 ha (3.9% of the island).

Species of interest

Tabaiba dulce (Euphorbia balsamifera), tabaibaamarga (Euphorbia lamarckii), cardón or Canary Island spurge (Euphorbia canariensis), tabaibamejorera (Euphorbia atropurpurea), sabina (Juniperus turbinatassp. canariensis), Canary Island date palm, bicácaro or Canary Island bellflower (Canarinacanariensis), Canary Islands dragon tree (Dracaena draco), laurel (Laurus novocanariensis), acebiño (Ilex canariensis), osprey, Tenerife speckled lizard, Scopoli’s shearwater, raven, laurel pigeon, Bolle’s pigeon.

Laurel forest, fayal-brezal (Morella-Erica heath), thermophilic forest, coastal cliffs, cardonal-tabaibal (Euphorbia), riparian ecosystems in ravine beds.

Places of interest

Teno Lighthouse, Teno Alto, Masca, Monte del Agua, El Palmar Valley.

Access and permits

Access to La Punta de Teno is regulated, and you can only reach it by bus from Buenavista.

The Barranco de Masca hiking trail is also regulated and visitor numbers are limited. To walk this route, you must first make a reservation.

Regulations

To consult permits for use and updated regulations for this Protected Natural Area, visit the official website of the Government of the Canary Islands .

Municipalities

Buenavista del Norte
Santiago del Teide

These are some of the points of interest you can find along this route.

Cercado de las Mulas Pine

Charcas de Erjos

Las Portelas Church

This beautiful traditional chapel stands in the square of this neighbourhood of Buenavista.

Church of Nuestra Señora de la Consolación

Chapel built at the end of the 17th century on the lands of the Conde del Palmar.

Sculpture paying tribute to the Baile de las Libreas

Horno de Azabuche

Traditional kiln in a good state of preservation.

Teno Alto Lunar Landscape

Pico Baracán

Barranco Cuevas Negras / Barranco del Agua

Caserío de Las Moradas

With a hollow 230 centimetres high, 100 centimetres wide and 80 centimetres deep at 80 centimetres above the ground. This pine tree is located in an area where other “parent pines”, such as the Trebejo Pine, the Nica Pine and the Loro Pine, can be found.

These ponds are formed by rainwater collecting in pits that were dug to mine aggregates at the end of the 20th century.

Its name comes from a laurel that grows on one of its forking trunks. Bramble, hare’s-foot fern ( Davalliacanariensis ) and epiphytic lichen also grow on its trunk. The tree is clearly visible from the road, which is why many tourists stop to take a picture in its shade.

Sculpture paying tribute to the Baile de las Libreas

A bronze sculpture by the artist Eladio de la Cruz that pays tribute to the Baile de las Libreas, a folk dance that symbolises the ethnographic heritage of El Palmar. The Baile de las Libreas is still celebrated every year, and represents the struggle between good and evil.

Expanse of rock formations created by solidifying lava and subsequent erosion, reminiscent of the landscapes of the moon.

Peak located 1,000 metres above sea level, separating El Palmar valley and the ravine known as Barranco de Los Carrizales.

Ruins of an old hamlet, typical of rural society in the north of Tenerife. With a markedly agricultural character, it also has two large threshing floors, barns, storage rooms, corrals, chicken coops, etc.

Barranco Cuevas Negras / Barranco del Agua

Ravine that links the town of Los Silos with Monte del Agua, home to the abandoned hamlet of Cuevas Negras.

Abandoned hamlet that bears witness to how the settlers survived after the conquest by exploiting the resources available in the surrounding area. The buildings include a house, stables, corrals, etc.

Medio Ambiente de Tenerife - Teno - Cabildo de Tenerife
Camino del barranco de Masca (caminobarrancodemasca.com)
TITSA, Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife TITSA.
Red de Senderos Parque Rural de Teno.

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10 Must-See Places in Tenerife On Your First Trip

If you’re visiting the island for the first time, you shouldn’t miss these must-see places in Tenerife. However, you may find some cool spots even if you’re already familiar with the island.

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1. santa cruz de tenerife, 2. teide national park, 3. garachico, 4. parque rural de anaga, 5. masca valley, 6. puerto de la cruz, 7. san cristóbal de la laguna, 8. los cristianos, 9. los gigantes, 10. icod de los vinos.

I spent nearly two months combined in Tenerife during my two trips to the Canary Islands. This has become one of my favorite places to escape European winter. With pleasant temperatures year-round, charming small towns, great beaches, and spectacular nature, Tenerife is an enchanting island everyone should visit at least once.

I had the chance to explore nearly every place on the island, so I thought I would create a list of the must-see places in Tenerife. This is not an exhaustive list of everything worth visiting on the island, but it’s a good start for first-timers. If you have already been to Tenerife, you may have visited all these places, but you may still find a few new ones. However, stay tuned for another article coming soon with more off-the-beaten-path places.

A few tips for your trip to Tenerife

Before diving into the 10 top places to visit in Tenerife, I want to give you a few tips. First of all, I highly recommend visiting the island in winter. The temperatures are ideal for hiking and sightseeing (around 20-22°C), and you may even spend some time at the beach.

Secondly – and this is another reason to fly to Tenerife in winter – you can easily find affordable flights from many European cities. I usually use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. Check it out!

Thirdly, Tenerife has amazing public transportation. Even if you don’t want to rent a car, you can easily get around by bus (or guagua, as the locals call it). Check titsa.com for all routes and fees, and be sure to get a rechargeable ticket as soon as you arrive. You can top it up in many places across the island and easily get around.

Lastly, book your accommodation in advance. The island is a popular destination even during winter months. Plus, the carnival in February draws lots of visitors, so you want to plan ahead of time if you want to experience it. Choose a bigger city as your base if you’re going to move around by bus. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and Costa Adeje are all great options. I prefer staying in the north, but the south is better if you want to spend more time at the beach. I book most of my accommodation through Booking.com .

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Okay, now it’s time to get into my list of the ten must-see places in Tenerife!

Let’s kick off this list with an obvious but necessary place, the island’s vibrant capital city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Although I think natural landscapes are worth visiting more than any city in Tenerife, you can’t skip at least half a day in the capital.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a cool city with a rich cultural heritage and many activities for every type of traveler. Explore the charming old town and the iconic Plaza de España, visit the many museums and art galleries, and wonder at the impressive Auditorio de Tenerife.

If you happen to visit Tenerife around February, which I highly recommend, you can experience one of the world’s biggest and most famous carnivals. The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the second-most important carnival after the one in Rio de Janeiro.

If you plan on spending more than a week in Tenerife, I recommend spending a couple of days in Santa Cruz. However, if you’re short on time, there are many other amazing places to visit, so one day would be enough.

No trip to Tenerife would be complete without hiking around the Teide National Park. With 3,715 meters in height, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak. The area surrounding the volcano became a national park in 1954, and in 2007, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Being one of the top attractions in Tenerife, you have several options to visit Mount Teide. Firstly, you can explore Teide National Park independently by car or bus (Guagua). Catch bus 342 from Costa Adeje or 348 from Puerto de la Cruz. Check out the schedules and stops on titsa.com .

Once you’re in the park, you can hit the hiking trails or catch the cable car to the peak, or near the peak, to be precise. You need a special permit to hike to the summit of Mount Teide. To obtain this, you can either book the official Mount Teide Peak Experience or request a free permit on the government’s national parks website to hike up by yourself.

Note that limited permits are available (200 per day divided between the general public and park guides), and they sell fast. You will need to book these two to three months in advance.

Teide National Park, Must-see in Tenerife

Get a guided tour

If you don’t necessarily want to hike to the summit or visit the park independently, you can join one of the many guided group tours. This Mount Teide Tour with Cable Car Ticket & Transfer offers departures from multiple places across the island. This way, you can also get to meet new people. While I didn’t personally join this tour, it’s one of the best options online.

I visited the park by bus once and by car a second time. If you go by bus, there are multiple stops, so you can get off at the visitor center, go on a hike, and catch the bus back at a different stop. This is what I did on my first time to Mount Teide. No matter how you choose to tackle it, make sure not to miss this must-see spot in Tenerife.

One piece of advice I can give you is to choose a clear day. While the weather in Tenerife is subject to swift changes, try to avoid hazy or cloudy days. The clouds tend to gather around the peak, so you risk getting up there and not even seeing the volcano. Of course, this is hard if you want to book a tour in advance, but it’s doable if you have a flexible schedule.

Garachico was one of my favorite small towns in Tenerife so I would say it’s a must-see. The charming coastal town offers a glimpse into the island’s past with its cobbled streets, picturesque squares, and beautiful architecture.

Garachico lies at the foot of the Arenas Negras Volcano. In 1706, a huge eruption partially destroyed the town and reshaped the bay. From the ancient harbor area, only the San Miguel Castle and the Puerta de Tierra survived the disaster.

Garachico is small, so you can easily visit it in just a couple of hours. Stroll along the seaside promenade, stop by one of the many traditional restaurants, wander around the charming historical center, and maybe go for a swim in the natural pools of El Caletón. Lastly, walk to Mirador del Emigrante to enjoy a beautiful view of the town from above.

If you’re looking for hiking areas in Tenerife, Anaga Rural Park is one of the best. The protected area occupies the northeastern part of Tenerife, and the Macizo de Anaga mountain range became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2015.

The area is covered in lush laurel forests, with rugged cliffs providing sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. Anaga Rural Park has lots of hiking trails. One reason I love it is that, except for a few extremely popular spots, you can enjoy some peace. Choose one of the less popular hikes to immerse yourself in the serenity of the forest but be sure to check some of the popular spots too.

Mirador Pico del Inglés, Camino Viejo al Pico del Inglès, Mirador De Jardina, and El Bailadero are some spots you shouldn’t miss. The great thing is that you can reach the area by bus. Line 273 departs from San Cristóbal de La Laguna and will get you to Mirador Pico del Inglés.

Nestled between towering cliffs, Masca Valley is a hidden gem awaiting your discovery. Despite being quite remote, Masca Valley is among the must-see places to visit in Tenerife.

A trip to the Masca Valley feels like a trip back in time. The village of Masca consists of a handful of houses and a few restaurants looking over the staggering cliffs, which offer glimpses of the ocean.

Hike around the impressive valley and take in the wild beauty of this place. Unfortunately, reaching Masca Valley is not exactly easy without a car. You can catch bus 355 or 365 from Buenavista del Norte. However, unless you’re staying in Buenavista, you also need to keep into account the trip to get there, which is 1.5 hours from Puerto de la Cruz.

If you can’t rent a car, probably the easiest way to visit Masca Valley is on a guided tour. Get Your Guide has a Teide and Masca Valley Tour from Puerto de la Cruz, while Viator has a similar tour from the south.

Puerto de la Cruz is the most important city on Tenerife’s northern coast, known for its lovely beaches, bustling promenades, and lively historical center. Although Santa Cruz is the island’s capital, Puerto de la Cruz was the first place to welcome tourists to the island. If you ask me, I much prefer Puerto de la Cruz to Santa Cruz.

The city has a charming historical center with little squares and colonial buildings, a buzzing seaside promenade along the beautiful Costa Martiánez, and charming parks and gardens like Sitio Litre and Parque Taoro. Furthermore, you’ll find many cozy cafés and traditional restaurants.

While visiting Puerto, don’t forget to check out the iconic Agatha Christie steps, the sweeping views from Mirador La Paz, and the lovely Playa del Castillo. Lastly, you can visit the famous Loro Parque.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is one of the most important cities in Tenerife and another must-see. The former capital of the Canary Islands, La Laguna, as it’s commonly known, was the first city to be established in Tenerife. Its historical center became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

La Laguna is the place to go to admire the charming colonial architecture, learn about the island’s history, and visit beautiful churches. The city is home to the impressive Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna and the historic Iglesia-Parroquia Matriz de Nuestra Señora de La Concepción, the first parish in Tenerife.

Wander through the colorful streets lined with colonial buildings, indulge in local culinary delights at the traditional restaurants, and visit interesting museums like Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe or the Museum of the History of Tenerife.

I spent an entire week in La Laguna, and I believe it’s one of the best places to base yourself in the north of Tenerife. The city has easy access to the two major cities of Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz and connections to the Anaga Rural Park. At the same time, it’s not as crowded as the other two cities and has more of a small-town vibe.

If you want to bask in the sun, go swimming, and simply relax at the beach, your best bet is to stay in the south of Tenerife. Los Cristianos is one of the most popular towns in the area, known for its many hotels, long sandy beaches, and a variety of local and international restaurants.

Los Cristianos is also the place to go if you want to experience the island’s nightlife. Before becoming the popular tourist hub it is today, Los Cristianos was a quaint fishing village. Unlike other nearby places like Playa de las Americas, it has history, despite it being overlooked in favor of the big hotels, popular beaches, and lively bars.

If you want my two cents on Los Cristianos, I’d say it’s worth a visit, but I wouldn’t spend much time there. There is so much more to be discovered across the island. That being said, if you are looking for a relaxing holiday made of sun, sea, and cocktails with some live music in the evening, then Los Cristianos or nearby Playa de las Americas is the place to be.

Another must-see in Tenerife is Los Gigantes, which translates to The Giants. These dramatic cliffs on the western coast of Tenerife are one of the most magnificent things you’ll see on the island. At the time of the Guanches (Tenerife’s indigenous inhabitants), the cliffs were known as the “Wall of Hell” (Muralla del Infierno) or “Devil’s Wall” (Muralla del Diablo).

The vertical cliffs emerge from the ocean and stand at impressive heights between 300 and 600 meters. The interesting thing is that the sea level is very low at the foot of these cliffs. Given the difficult access, the submarine area has a rich ecosystem and is ideal for diving.

If you want to see Los Gigantes up close, you can join one of the many boat tours sailing past the impressive cliffs. These tours are great for spotting marine life too, like dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles. This Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat is one of the most popular tours in the area.

You can easily reach Los Gigantes from many places in the south of Tenerife, like Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje, and from Puerto de la Cruz. If you can’t join a boat tour, you can admire the magnificent cliffs from many viewpoints around the resort town of Los Gigantes.

One last place I want to include on this list of must-see places in Tenerife is Icod de los Vinos. The charming town on the northwestern coast of Tenerife is better known for being the home of the island’s oldest Dragon Tree, known as Drago Milenario or simply El Drago.

Some say El Drago is a thousand years old, while others believe it can’t be older than 700 years. Regardless of its exact age, this impressive tree is a unique sight. Furthermore, El Drago is so important for the island’s locals that a whole park was built around it. This is obviously the main attraction in Icod de los Vinos.

The town offers quite a few other things to do. You can stroll around the lovely historical center and check out the architecture, stop by one of the many local restaurants, go shopping in small local stores, and even visit a small banana plantation and museum, Casa del Plátano. Lastly, Icod is home to a beautiful tropical garden housing over 800 butterflies, Mariposario del Drago.

I hope you enjoyed this list of must-see places in Tenerife. Feel free to share your favorites in the comments and let me know what other places you think nobody should miss on the island!

Travel Resources

Lastly, if you need more useful resources to plan your trip, here are my personal recommendations (I use them all):

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Hi, I'm Roxana! I am a travel writer trying to see as much of the world as possible and share with you my stories and travel tips. Thank you for reading and following me, I'm so happy to have you here!

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Where to avoid the crowds in Tenerife

Jul 25, 2022 • 6 min read

Tourist admiring the view in Masca, Tenerife, Spain

Enjoy a peaceful slice of nature in Masca, one of the most picturesque spots in Tenerife © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

Once considered the edge of the world, the Canary Islands stood where the Old World map ended before European explorers "discovered" civilization on the other side of the storm-tossed Atlantic.

These days the islands are very much on the vacation map, with their distinctive culture and one-of-a-kind landscapes ranging from glittering black-sand beaches to snow-capped volcanic peaks. Tenerife is the biggest and best-known of the bunch, but even this island has secret places for those who are willing to dodge the crowds and go the extra mile.

Venture beyond the crowded beach resorts in the south, the island's famous water park or the well-trodden hikes and trails to find a hidden Tenerife filled with more secluded spots where you can slip into the relaxed swing of Canarian life. It's an ideal destination to disconnect and enjoy the great, remote outdoors. Here's a handy guide to the best of secret Tenerife beyond the crowds.

Man holding a long surf board on a beach in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Secluded beaches of Tenerife

The south coast beaches like Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos thrum with beach-goers, but those in the know go north instead for a slice of proper coastal wilderness and fewer crowds. Some of the best northern beaches are terrifically secluded, so much so that you can only reach them on foot or by boat.

Getting to back-to-nature Playa de Antequera in the northeast, which some locals consider the best beach on the island, doesn’t come easy. It requires a two- to three-hour hike – or a shorter boat rental – from the town of Igueste de San Andrés. However, it’s worth the effort to lounge on its pristine sands, surrounded by cave-pitted cliffs and rock formations.

If you’re less inclined to hike, head to cliff-wrapped Playa de Benijo in the foothills of the Anaga Mountains, or Playa de las Gaviotas, a gorgeous scoop of dark sand below rugged cliffs, both of which are a tad busier because they accessible by car and shorter footpaths. Both have views of impressive volcanic rock formations and – if you’re inclined – are clothing optional.

Which of the Canary Islands is best for you?

Man admiring the view of volcano Teide at dusk. Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Top of Mt Teide

Mt Teide isn’t exactly hidden: popping up above the lava-sculpted moonscape of the national park, it's Spain’s tallest peak and the third highest volcano in the world at 3715m (12,188ft). Its eruption millions of years ago contributed to the creation of Tenerife and is now one of the island’s biggest pulls. Most head up the easy way – via cable car – but you can stray away from the crowds and trek up on foot.

It’s a tough five- to six-hour hike from the cable car base station to La Rambleta at 3555m (11,633ft). The area surrounding the upper station is just 150m (500ft) short of the true Pico del Teide . Plan ahead and obtain a permit to go beyond this point and trek up to the crater summit, another strenuous hour on foot round-trip. You’ll be glad you decided to stand on the rooftop of Spain as, giddy with elation and short of breath, you take in views that sweep across the lunar valley and beyond to the islands of La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro glimmering across the Atlantic.

If you don't want to hike up Mt Teide, easier walks dip into Parque Nacional del Teide. You’ll find parking areas to its otherworldly volcanic trails along TF-21 – the one road at the base of the peak – including those around the bizarre Roques de Garcia and Las Minas de San Jose.

Traveling to the Canary or Balearic islands in Spain? Here’s what to expect

Punta de Teno

Flicking out into the Atlantic in the northwest, Punta de Teno is a small peninsula jutting into the Atlantic that's wild and wondrous, with waves hammering a dark-sand beach, mountains rising sheer and rugged in the backdrop and a lighthouse blinking out into the expansive ocean. This scenic promontory was once overrun with visitors, but the Canarian government has placed limits on visitor numbers to curb the masses and to preserve the fragile environment.

But that doesn’t mean it’s completely off limits. Restricted car access during the day means it is now largely uncrowded, and you can visit on foot or by bike or public bus. The Teno Lighthouse, built in 1893, has phenomenal views of the west coast cliffs of Los Gigantes, soaring above a wave-lashed sea. Sunset is primetime viewing.

For a leap into cool, inky sapphire waters and a ramble into the caves, check out La Ballenita beach.

A group of kayakers paddle next to a large rock formation in Tenerife.

Masca Bay and the coast of Los Gigantes

Dangling precariously off a cliff, the astonishingly lovely mountain village of Masca is popular among day-trippers and with good reason – it’s a knockout. Some say the town is Tenerife’s answer to Peru’s Machu Picchu because it is flanked by a tall Huayna Picchu–esque mound, just like the Incan citadel.

Many people drop in to stroll Masca’s main drag of cafes and souvenir stores, but the real magic lies in the hike through Barranco de Masca , a tough six-hour round-trip trudge over stream, through orchard and past mighty walls of vertical rock to the sea. If you want to trim the walk a bit, time it so you can hop on a boat from the bay to the lofty cliffs of Los Gigantes. It will save your legs and also give you a sneak peek at some of the most memorable coast-scapes on the island. Kayak tours, which paddle along the coast of Los Gigantes, can be arranged in the nearby port town of Santiago del Teide, at the Puerto Deportivo Los Gigantes .

If this sounds too exerting, join one of the boat tours departing from the port of Santiago del Teide, which stops at calm coves in Masca Bay where you can take a quick dip. Along the way, you’ll likely be joined by pods of short-finned pilot whales. One of the world’s largest colonies dwells in these waters between Tenerife and neighboring La Gomera.

Anaga Rural Park

Tenerife’s appeal goes way beyond the obvious allure of its beaches and volcanoes. The north is a Darwinian wonderland of rare wildlife, shaggy mountains, craggy cliffs and ancient woodlands from the elevated pine forest on Monte de Esperanza to Parque Rural de Anaga, which encompasses much of the island’s northeast.

This vast mountainous area bubbled up from the seabed some nine million years ago and has evolved into a nature reserve so unique that it was given UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status in 2016. Among the twisted, lichen-swathed trunks of ancient laurisilva (laurel forest), scientists have recorded 1900 species, including reptiles, birds, fish and invertebrates.

A popular trek through Anaga Rural Park begins at the visitor center in Cruz del Carmen, on the TF-12 road, and wends down the trail to the coastal hamlet of Taganana for a dip in the ocean. The park is crisscrossed with incredible trails, which vary in length and difficulty. For something more gentle and accessible, Sendero de Los Sentidos (Footpath of the Senses) is a network of three easy nature walks from the visitor center.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated July 2022

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FULL Tenerife Road Trip Guide | Itinerary, Places To Visit in Tenerife, Car Hire!

Categories Canary Islands , Europe , Itinerary , Spain

Tenerife is a small and compact island filled with so many different landscapes and terrains so a Tenerife road trip really is the perfect way to see the island and get an alternative look at the island away from the hotel resorts!

We spent a super quick 3 days in Tenerife recently and we saw so much of the island in that time and worked out the perfect Tenerife road trip itinerary. We saw towns that reminded me of being in South America, we saw incredible coastline and natural swimming pools. We saw remote mountain villages and climbed Spain’s highest mountain – Mount Teide, which is also a volcano… impressive hey!

For your Tenerife itinerary, you could do a 1 week road trip in Tenerife and easily spend your whole holiday travelling around the island because there are so many places to see in Tenerife, or you could spend a few days relaxing in one place and then a few days on a Tenerife road trip exploring the island.

Either way, this post of places to visit in Tenerife, things to see in Tenerife and my Tenerife road trip itinerary will help give you some ideas for your trip!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Tenerife Road Trip

Car Hire in Tenerife

Tenerife has 2 airports. From the UK with TUI , we flew into Tenerife South Airport . We hired a car through Rentalcars which checks all the top car rental companies and although it makes sense, we were still so surprised to see most of the airport car parking as car hire !

Because Tenerife is an island, it’s not like you can bring your own car so you will need to hire a car in Tenerife for this road trip and although there are many residents and locals living in Tenerife, a lot of the cars you’ll see on the roads in these tourist places in Tenerife, will be hire cars.

We hired a car through Top Cars which was a company we hadn’t used before but we had no problems with them, Cicar (Canary Islands Car) was another company we saw a lot of cars from on the roads.

Check out prices and availability for car hire on Rentalcars here!

Tenerife road trip, cream mini hire car in national park

Driving in Tenerife

In Tenerife, like in the rest of Europe (except the UK), they drive on the right side of the road . Which is great for Europeans and North Americans! Not as much for Brits and Aussies!

Generally, we found the driving in Tenerife to be ok . There is definitely an island feel to driving here with locals doing as they please in certain situations, plus, with a lot of tourists on the road you do have to be cautious, but it is in no way a dangerous driving situation like in Morocco for example. Roads are all marked and there are rules of the road in place.

As for driving licenses for Tenerife. At the time of writing this, UK driving licenses are still valid in Tenerife as they are in the rest of Spain. Tenerife Guru’s page is a great place to look for updated license information though, more detailed information on driving in Tenerife and travel rules to Tenerife.

We used a mixture of Google Maps and Waze for getting around Tenerife and both worked really well despite the internet dropping here and there in the more remote places.

Tenerife road trip, steep road through village in Tenerife

Check out prices and availability for car hire in Tenerife on Rentalcars here!

Roads in Tenerife

A Tenerife road trip is perfect because of the amazing roads in Tenerife with their spectacular scenery and later in this post I’ll tell you more about these roads and where to go in Tenerife to see such incredible roads.

For now, let’s focus on the practical side. We did find the roads in Tenerife really good to drive on . The main dual carriage way roads are all well kept and well sign posted . The smaller side roads are the same, and even the windy mountain roads, although narrow, are well kept from pot holes etc.

However, one major thing to note about the roads in Tenerife for tourists driving around the island is the amount of narrow and windy roads there are.

From our experience, many of the narrow windy roads were suitable for 2 cars to pass at once but both cars had to really slow down and go as far as they could to their sides.

We didn’t travel down many 1 way roads. Luckily, many of us from the UK we are used to small 1 way roads but I know most American drivers aren’t so these small 2 way roads might still be worrying to you and you do need to drive slowly around the bends and be cautious of what traffic is approaching.

From a passengers point of view, I actually got pretty car sick from all of the windy roads so if you do suffer from car sickness or motion sickness you might want to pack something for this for driving around Tenerife!

Tenerife road trip, Mini hired car by ocean

Tenerife Road Trip Map

A Tenerife road trip is a brilliant idea because of how small the distances are from place to place in Tenerife and that the majority of the island has a ring road around it .

On this note, just because the island is small and just because there are many main roads in Tenerife, many of the roads are windy country roads meaning they will take longer to drive than you might expect from just looking at a map.

Here is a Tenerife road trip map with the below places to visit in Tenerife I have mentioned and our 3 day Tenerife road trip Itinerary

Tenerife road trip, Mount Teide Peak by Drone

Tenerife Road Trip Itinerary

The perfect road trip itinerary for Tenerife will break the island up into areas and focus on one area per day ideally.

We focused on the West Coast, North and Middle of the island mainly and we found so many gems here that really surprised me and gave us a totally alternative look at Tenerife than the ‘Brits Aboard’ and ‘All-Inclusive Hotel’ image Tenerife has been given to many.

Tenerife Itinerary

Our Tenerife itinerary looked like this:

Arrive into Tenerife South Airport Friday Evening
Hire a car and drive 40 minutes to a small town called Santiago del Teide
Stay overnight in a local and traditional hotel called Hotel La Casona del Patio

Tenerife Road Trip, Hotel La Casona del Patio view

Drive 10 minutes straight to Masca Valley
Drive the windy roads and explore Masca Valley and Masca Village
Drive 40 minutes to Garachio , have lunch and soak up this beautiful colourful town
Head up the West Coast to Icod de los Vinos and Charco del Viento
Drive into Northern Tenerife through Anaga Rural Park and Chinamada
Stay overnight in the city of San Cristobal de La Laguna in La Laguna Gran Hotel

Drive down the middle of the island to Teide National Park
Spend 8.5 hours hiking up Mount Teide , Spain’s highest mountain
Drive back through the middle of the island to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Stay overnight in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife at AC Hotel by Marriott

Tenerife road trip, Mount Teide in Distance

Explore Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Drive down the East Coast back to Tenerife South Airport to fly home

What I liked and didn’t about our Tenerife Road Trip Itinerary

Looking back at our trip to help you with your Tenerife travel, I wish we hadn’t gone to Santa Cruz de Tenerife . This is really just a big city and although there are some noteworthy places to visit in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , we didn’t enjoy it.

I reallllyyyy wish we had stayed in the city of San Cristobal de La Laguna for another night because this city is smaller with a lot more charm and really reminded me of many South and Central American cities.

I loved La Laguna Gran Hotel too and wish we had booked another night here.

I am really glad we left the airport in the evening on Friday and drove 40 minutes close to Masca Valley as this enabled us to wake up in the mountains and be close to the first stop on our Tenerife road trip itinerary. I also really liked Hotel La Casona del Patio because it was so traditional.

We packed a lot in on Saturday because on Monday my husband had to work from the hotel. In a way, we were lucky because the weather wasn’t great on Saturday, it was warm and clear but very windy so we couldn’t go swimming. If it had been nice weather and we had swam and enjoyed the beaches, we wouldn’t have been able to fit as much in on one day in Tenerife as we did.

Tenerife road trip, Ellie by ocean in Tenerife

Best Places to Visit in Tenerife

Here are many of the top places to visit in Tenerife that you’ll want to go on a road trip in Tenerife because many of these can only be accessed with your own car!

Masca Valley

Masca Valley is an absolute highlight in Tenerife and if you’re like me, you definitely didn’t know such places existed in Tenerife and it’s top of my list in best places to visit in Tenerife!

Masca is a small hidden village within the Masca Valley with a very small population. Now, it is one of the major tourist destinations in Tenerife with lots of tours visiting as well as tourists like us hiring a car and going as part of a Tenerife road trip or day trip, but there’s a reason why it’s so popular!

The road leading to Masca has a lot of sharp hairpin turns so it definitely requires some concentration and cautiousness.

Tenerife road trip, windy roads in Masca Valley Tenerife

After passing through the town of Santiago de Teide (we stayed overnight here so we could go to Masca first thing the next day which was not only a great way to start the day, but a great time to miss a lot of the crowds! We stayed at Hotel La Casona del Patio which we really liked!) you’ll come across lots of viewpoints and lay-bys to stop in to take in the view before you decend into the village.

I was wondering how far you need to travel down into the village to get the iconic shot with the village and the rock above it and to get these photos, we parked up just before the roundabout turning into the village which was a popular spot for many with car parking spaces.

If you have time, you can go for a wander into the town of Masca and get a coffee in one of the cafes in Masca . There are many walking and hiking opportunities in the area, hiking the Masca Canyon is one of the popular things to do in Tenerife. Or you can carry on down the windy roads to Masca Beach / Playa de Masca!

Tenerife road trip, Ellie in Masca Village

When I asked on my Instagram, where to visit in Tenerife, a few people told me to go to Garachico and I’m so glad we did.

It’s one of the prettiest towns in Tenerife with lots of colourful buildings and a fantastic coastline to walk along. I loved it as it reminded me so much of towns I’ve seen in South and Central America.

Garachico is one of the popular places to visit in Tenerife on a day trip , especially from the South Coast so do expect it to get busy, but when I went on a Saturday lunchtime at the start of October it was lovely.

Most of the top things to do in Garachico are visiting lovely buildings and churches , plus relaxing in the main square which we did whilst eating some authentic Churros! This is great if like us, you’re going your road trip around Tenerife out of the summer season where the beaches and ocean are more off limits.

Tenerife road trip, main square in Garachico

If you are doing this road trip in Tenerife in Summer, you can also enjoy the natural swimming pools of El Caleton and Garachico Beach .

Tenerife road trip, ocean and natural pools in Garachico

Icod de los Vinos

Like probably most people, we got pulled to the town of Icod de los Vinos because of Drago de Icod de los Vinos which is the lone Dracaena Tree estimated to be 1000 years old that sits in the middle of the town.

Although the tree is impressive, we didn’t pay to see it up close and we weren’t a huge fan of Icod de los Vinos, however it’s on this list of places to go in Tenerife because if you are doing this driving around Tenerife with children, it does have some good tourist attractions like a Butterfly farm and plenty of places to eat to break up a drive with kids.

Tenerife road trip, Drago de Icod de los Vinos

Charco del Viento

There are many natural pools in Tenerife to swim in, and and Charco del Viento is one of the best natural pools in Tenerife to visit because it’s not hugely close to a town and therefore is going to attract fewer people than the likes or Garachico I mentioned above where the El Caleton pools are right in the town.

It was a bit of a random drive down a side road along a huge banana plantation to get here but well worth it for what was waiting for us.

Although the weather was not good enough for us to swim, we could see how amazing these natural pools were along with the small pebble beach areas, and even if you are aren’t coming to swim as we weren’t, it’s a great place to add to your Tenerife road trip itinerary, and I read it’s lovely at sunset !

Tenerife road trip, Charco del Viento natural pools

Rambla de Castro

If you’re looking for an alternative trip to Tenerife visiting more off the beaten path destinations , Rambla de Castro and it’s hike, is for you and should be on your Tenerife itinerary!

This is a nature preserve in Tenerife with spectacular views across the ocean. The Rambla de Castro hike starts in the city of Puerto de la Cruz, here’s a great post on how to do the Rambla de Castro hike .

Puerto de la Cruz

Known for being one of the first tourism destinations in the world, as you creep up West Coast from Southern Tenerife to Northern Tenerife, you’ll come across the popular resort town of Puerto de la Cruz.

With just a few days in Tenerife, we didn’t visit, but if you have 1 week in Tenerife, it should be on your list to see how this popular resort has kept some of its old charm.

There are many things to do in Puerto de la Cruz like visiting its famous black sandy beach , chill and swim at the huge Lago Martianez swimming pool and visit the Old Quarter .

Tenerife road trip, Lago Martianez swimming pool in Puerto de la Cruz

Piscina natural de Jover

Another one of the popular natural swimming pools in Tenerife, this one is much further up North so perfect if you are focusing on Northern Tenerife more on your Tenerife road trip, in fact, there are so many gems and amazing places to visit in Northern Tenerife !

One of the great things about being up in this part of the island is that there are not lots of resorts around here and therefore, this swimming pool is going to be much quieter, or at least quieter from tourists and more popular with locals.

We really pushed ourselves to visit Chinamada at the end of a long one day in Tenerife and I’m so glad we did!

We had to drive through the beautiful, and windy, roads of Anaga Rural Park to reach here (more on that soon) and when we arrived in the small remote village of Chinamada we couldn’t believe it.

It’s a remote place but definitely not cut off, there was one restaurant, a church and a few houses. We walked up a track and got an incredible view of the mountains and I saw many footpaths carrying along the mountains in different directions.

Tenerife road trip, Chinamada village from mountain

Playa de Benijo

Benijo Beach is one of the popular and best beaches in Tenerife to visit because of the rock formations along the coastline , known as the Roques de Anaga rock formations.

Because of it’s location it’s a great place for sunset in Tenerife too so try to plan this into your Tenerife road trip itinerary!

Anaga Rural Park

We drove through Anaga Rural Park to get to Chinamada in the North from San Cristobal de la Laguna and we were so surprised by this mountainous forest! This is not what we expected Tenerife to look like at all!

After some research , I found that the forest is called a laurel forest made up of laurel trees which is a type of subtropical forest that grows in areas of mild temperatures and high humidity, this is probably why it looked so unique.

If you have more time in Tenerife than we did with our long weekend in Tenerife, perhaps you have 1 week in Tenerife, I really recommend planning in time here to do some hikes and walks . Just from driving along the (windy) road up to Chinamada we saw so many lay-by’s to park in and footpaths leading from the road into the forest, or you can go to the visitor centre at Cruz del Carmen and start a walk from there.

For unique things to do in Tenerife, going walking here, or even just driving through Anaga Rural Park is something you should do!

Tenerife road trip, Anaga Rural Park sign and mountains

San Cristobal de La Laguna

We stayed overnight in this city and I really liked the vibe. It’s a much smaller city than the nearby capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife but has plenty of amentities, and therefore felt like it had more charm , especially in the old town area . We stayed at La Laguna Gran Hotel which we loved and we loved the old surrounding streets.

These really reminded me of being in South America and I later read that the city was the model for several colonial cities in Latin America, so that now makes sense!

Tenerife road trip, San Cristobal de La Laguna street in morning

Before you leave San Cristobal de La Laguna, or as you arrive, be sure to drive out of the city and up to Mirador de Jardina which is a viewpoint that looks over the whole city and the surrounding mountains!

It’s also easy to add into your road trip Tenerife itinerary because its on the way to Anaga Rural Park and Chinamada so you can visit them all in one go as we did!

Tenerife road trip, city view from Mirador de Jardina

Mount Teide National Park

This is one of the main places to visit in Tenerife that would bring me back to this Canary island because driving through here and seeing all of the places to go in Teide National Park was so spectacular!

We had just stayed overnight in San Cristobal de La Laguna at La Laguna Gran Hotel which was the perfect place to drive from the North of the island into the middle of the island to Teide National Park. Firstly we drove through Las Lagunetas which is a natural reserve and we were blown away by the forestry here and all of the beautiful pine tree’s lining the roads, especially as we were driving in the morning with the morning sun rising.

Then, we entered Teide National Park and drove along the mountain roads where with amazing views, especially as we started to see Mount Teide – the highest mountain in Spain, emerge!

For your Tenerife road trip, I’d really recommend driving into Teide National Park from the North of the island as it was the best drive in Tenerife for us !

Tenerife road trip, road in Mount Teide National Park

Because we spent our one day in Tenerife in this area hiking Mount Teide we didn’t get to explore much of the area but there are many things to do in Teide National Park and ways to see Mount Teide National Park like taking the Mount Teide Cable Car close to the Summit, hiking , go Stargazing , visiting the Teide Observatory and if you don’t have a plan or know what to do in Teide National Park, there are plenty of lay-bys you can just pull into with signs leading away from the road that you can just follow and explore for yourself!

Mount Teide

Finally, easily one of the top places to visit in Tenerife is Mount Teide! This is Spain’s highest Mountain at 3715m and it’s the third largest volcanic structure in the world with the first 2 being in Hawaii!

There are many ways you can visit Mount Teide, if people don’t have a car they can get a tour bus to Mount Teide and then get the cable car up to see the amazing views from very near the top of Mount Teide. For those that are doing a self drive road trip in Tenerife like we did, you can either get the cable car to the top too, or hike as we did!

Tenerife road trip, hiking to the top of Mount Teide

Here is my full post on how to hike Mount Teide from the bottom, all the way to the top! To go to the very peak and summit of Mount Teide you do have to apply for a permit in advance , the permit is free but they do sell out a few months in advance so you do have to be organised and book this a few months out.

Otherwise, from hiking or from the cable car , you can go very close to the summit, see the views and have a little walk before returning to the bottom by cable car or by foot.

Tenerife road trip, Mount Teide Cable Car viewing platform at the top

East Coast of Tenerife

For even more ideas of where to go in Tenerife, the East Coast looks like it has some nice places too, especially the North East. Unfortunately, I did not have time to see this side but I love this post on places to visit on the East Coast of Tenerife so have a read of this too!

South Coast of Tenerife

For more places to visit in Tenerife, there is the South coast of Tenerife . This is generally where holiday tourists go and many of the Tenerife tourist attractions like Siam Park are. If you’re looking for places off the beaten path in Tenerife, the South might not be for you, like it wasn’t for us, but just incase, here are the top places to visit in South Tenerife .

Tenerife road trip, Beach on East Coast of Tenerife

I hope you have found this Tenerife road trip post helpful and it has helped you with your Tenerife road trip itinerary and places to visit in Tenerife!

For more of my posts you might like see:
Hiking Mount Teide! How To Hike Spain’s Highest Mountain at 3715m, Easily!
16 BEST Winter Sun Destinations in Europe & Nearby!
Southern Spain Itinerary – Where To Visit & Things To Do. Complete Guide!
Visiting Marrakech in August, The Weather & Things To Do in Marrakech in August!

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Tenerife Must-See: 15 Awesome Things To Do & Places To See In Tenerife

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Looking for the best things to do and places to see in Tenerife? You’ve come to the right place!

Tenerife is one of my favourite places in the world. The island offers a huge variety of landscapes and activities, ranging from tropical beaches lined with palm trees to lunar volcanic deserts.

When I was asked to participate in the #SpainOnMyMind campaign I was thrilled at the opportunity of writing about Tenerife. I spent two months living on the island, and would love to return one day.

There is more to Tenerife than the tourist resorts you might be thinking of. Tenerife is actually a very exciting destination, where you can go surfing, paragliding, whale watching, hiking and many other outdoors adventures.

In this article I put together a compilation of all the most awesome things to do in Tenerife, which made me fall in love with this Spanish island. If you love spending time outdoors, Tenerife is the perfect destination for you.

So without further ado, read on to discover all the beauties that Tenerife has to offer!

1.1 Explore Teide National Park
1.2 Go hiking in the Parque Rural de Anaga
1.3 Relax at Playa de las Teresitas
1.4 Enjoy the waves at Playa de Benijo
1.5 Learn to surf in Las Americas
1.6 Admire the view from Mirador Cruz del Carmen
1.7 Discover the village of Masca
1.8 Explore the Teno mountains
1.9 Admire the cliffs of Los Gigantes
1.10 Join a whale watching catamaran cruise
1.11 Visit San Cristobal de la Laguna
1.12 Go paragliding!
1.13 Go to a beach bar for sunset drinks
1.14 Taste the local cuisine
1.15 Hike the Rambla de Castro trail
1.16 Visit the natural pools of Garachico
2 Where to stay in Tenerife

Exploring the beautiful landscapes of Tenerife

Essentials to book before you read on!

Best tours in Tenerife

Teide National Park Romantic Sunset, Dinner & Stargazing

Tenerife Whale Watching Cruise

2-hour hiking tour in Anaga Forest

Best hotels in Tenerife

Budget: Banana Surf House

Mid-range: El Dorado Residence

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Abama

Get 5% off your travel insurance here!

15 awesome things to do in Tenerife

Explore teide national park.

Mount Teide is an active volcano in Tenerife. Its peak is at 3,715 metres, making it the highest post in Spain and one of the tallest volcanoes in Europe . No visit to Tenerife would be complete without a visit to Mount Teide.

Teide National Park covers a surface area of 190km squared, and encompasses a vast variety of landscapes. If you love hiking, you need to dedicate at least a couple days exploring the beauty of this volcano.

Teide tours worth checking out:

Mount Teide: Cable Car Ticket – This is the standard cable car entrance for those who want to see the peak of Mount Teide.

From Playa de las Americas: Full-Day Teide Jeep Safari – For the most adventurous who want to properly explore all of Teide National Park!

Tenerife Teide National Park Stargazing – When you’re 3,700m above all light pollution sources, you can rest assured that the night sky views are incredible!

Hiking in Teide National Park, Tenerife

One of the most popular hikes is without a doubt Roque de García. This is a 3.5km circular trail, with a 170m elevation change.

The trail is well marked and easy to walk on, making it a fairly easy hike for all levels. It will take maximum 2 hours to do.

Sitting at 2,000 metres, this hike has excellent views of the summit of Mount Teide, as well as the surrounding rocky landscape.

There are unique rock formations dotted all alongside the trail, which ensure the views never get boring.

The start of the Roque de Garcia trail, with the Teide peak in the back, Tenerife

The incredible rocky landscapes of Teide National Park

Another must-see hike is the one at Mirador de Sámara. Despite being at a similar height as Roque de García, the landscape and views here are completely different.

This hike is famous because of the distinctive view of the pine trees growing out of the black lava field, with the summit of Mount Teide on one side and the view over the sea on the other.

The trail is around 10km long, with an elevation change of 400m and takes around 2.5 hours. It was unlike anything I had ever seen, and one of the things that fascinated me most about Tenerife.

On almost every Spain bucket list you will also find visiting the summit of Mount Teide. Standing at 3,700 metres, high above the clouds with views of the sea and surrounding islands is an experience like no other.

The Teide summit from the Mirador of Samara hike

The distinctive views of the Samara hike

Go hiking in the Parque Rural de Anaga

The Parue Rural de Anaga is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Tenerife . The natural landscape here is completely different from the south of the island and from the areas surrounding Mount Teide.

Here you will find a jagged green coastline, with dramatic peaks and cliffs directly over the sea.

I spent much of my time exploring Anaga playing the soundtrack of Jurassic Park in the background, and once you get here, it will be easy to see why.

Click here to book a hiking tour in Anaga Forest!

The panoramic views and mountains of Parque Rural de Anaga

There are lots of hiking trails in Anaga, which will allow you to thoroughly explore this part of Tenerife. My personal favourite is the one leading to the Semaforo of Igueste.

Starting at the small town of Igueste, this 4.5km trail has spectacular views everywhere you look. The hike is very steep (470m gain) and will take around 2.5 hours.

During the hike you will be able to admire the steep green mountains on one side, and the sea on the other.

The white houses of Igueste are perched along the mountainside, creating a beautiful contrast with the lush green vegetation.

Enjoying the view while hiking at the Semaforo of Igueste

There are lots of gorgeous hikes also on the northern coast of Tenerife, such as the ones at Roque de Taborno and Benijo. You can find all the hike specifications on the official Tenerife tourism website .

Whatever hike you choose, make sure to pack your hiking essentials and be ready for a fun day exploring stunning natural landscapes!

The northern coastline of Tenerife in the Parque Rural de Anaga

Relax at Playa de las Teresitas

There are many beautiful beaches all over the island, but Playa de las Teresitas was without a doubt one of my favourites.

Located in the north of the island, beyond Santa Cruz de Tenerife and nestled along the coastline of Anaga, it’s one of the most scenic beaches I’ve ever seen.

Playa de las Teresitas is 1.3km long and 80m wide, meaning there is plenty of space to go around! The beach is characterised by white sand, turquoise water and the dramatic cliffs of Anaga that surround it.

There is a viewpoint over the beach that I highly recommend visiting when you go there, as it will allow you to really admire the beauty and size of Playa de las Teresitas.

You can pair a visit to Playa de las Teresitas with one of the hikes in the Parque Rural de Anaga. After spending a few hours hiking and observing the beautiful views, you can relax on this white sand beach and cool down in the clear turquoise sea.

Playa de las Teresitas from above

Enjoy the waves at Playa de Benijo

On the northern coast of Tenerife, also nestled amongst the cliffs of the Parque Rural de Anaga, you will find Playa de Benijo. Playa de Benijo is a black sand beach, surrounded by steep cliffs.

This beach is famous for its scenic surrounding and huge waves. You can usually find children (and adults alike) jumping in the waves, and others relaxing and tanning on the black sand.

It has a wilder and more rugged feeling than Playa de las Teresitas, and it’s the perfect place for a relaxing stop after a hike on the northern side of Anaga.

Exploring Playa de Benijo in Tenerife

Learn to surf in Las Americas

Surfing in Tenerife was one of my absolute favourite things to do. I had previously been surfing in Bali , Fuerteventura and Costa Rica , but the surf in Tenerife was especially good.

Here you can find consistent waves for all levels. Playa Las Americas is the main surf spot, but as a beginner, I often found it too crowded and too close to the rocky reef for my liking.

I took regular classes with Surf Life Tenerife , and I loved that they always take you surfing to a different spot just along the coast. Here the waves are smaller, the reef isn’t as close and it’s nowhere near as busy.

Me surfing in Las Americas, Tenerife

Admire the view from Mirador Cruz del Carmen

As you may have guessed there are many gorgeous views all over Tenerife, but Mirador Cruz del Carmen deserves a special mention. Located on the outskirts of Anaga, you can combine this viewpoint with some easy hiking trails.

From the main parking area and tourist information desk you can do two easy trails that go through the surrounding laurel forests, and admire the view over the valley below.

On clear days you can see also the Teide summit. When I was visiting it had recently snowed on the Teide peak, which created the beautiful contrast you see in the photo below!

The view over Tenerife from Mirador Cruz del Carmen

Discover the village of Masca

Masca is one of the most unique places in Tenerife, and one you simply must visit while you’re on the island. This small mountain village is nestled amongst the Macizo de Teno mountains, and offers views like no other.

It was originally a Guanche settlement, before Spain took conquered the Canary Islands, and is now home to around 90 inhabitants.

The road to reach it is very narrow and with numerous bends, but the view while driving are well worth the slight motion sickness you might get!

There are a number of viewpoints that you can stop at while driving, to better admire the surrounding mountains and small town of Masca.

Once you reach the town itself you can spend some time walking around, soaking in the calm beauty of Masca.

The village of Masca and surrounding mountains

Explore the Teno mountains

Located on the north-western side of the island, the Teno mountain range often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Here you will find many incredible hikes, views and cute towns.

We did a hike with Anaga Experience in the Teno mountains and despite the cloudy weather, it was a great experience.

Starting in Teno Alto we hiked for 10km all the way down to the Punta Teno lighthouse, crossing all sorts of different landscapes throughout the hike. The Punta de Teno hike has an elevation change of 900m, but it’s mostly all downhill.

Once we reached the bottom we even went for a swim in the sea, it was much needed after the long trek! Other popular hikes in Teno are those surrounding Masca.

For the proper trekking lovers, you can do an awesome Teno Mountains half-day hike to Masca .

Hiking in the Teno mountains in Tenerife

Hiking the Punta de Teno trail in Tenerife

Admire the cliffs of Los Gigantes

Los Gigantes is a town on the west coast of Tenerife, famous for the huge cliffs that surround it.

The Acantilados de Los Gigantes are giant rock formations that reach up to 500-800 metres in height, towering above the sea and town.

Los Gigantes means “The Giants”, an apt name! There is a beautiful viewpoint just before reaching the town, where you can enjoy the view over the cliffs and sea.

There is also a small beach in town, where you can relax while enjoying the surrounding scenery of Los Gigantes.

A popular way to admire Los Gigantes is from the sea; there are many boat tours that will take you sailing along the coast of Los Gigantes. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some whales and dolphins!

View over the town and cliffs of Los Gigantes

Admiring the cliffs of Los Gigantes from Punta Teno Lighthouse

Join a whale watching catamaran cruise

Doing a whale watching cruise is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Tenerife, which is why it’s such a popular Tenerife shore excursion .

I didn’t get round to doing one until after a year of being in Tenerife, and I wish I’d done it sooner! Did you know that Tenerife was the first place to be nominated Whale Heritage Site in Europe?

Thanks to the warm weather and water all year round (even in winter !) and the conformation of the seabed between Tenerife and La Gomera, here you’re almost guaranteed to spot whales and dolphins.

When I did the whale watching cruise they told me there was a 99% chance to spot whales and 60% to spot dolphins, pretty good odds if you ask me!

Whale watching boat tours worth checking out:

Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat with Pick-Up – Combine whale watching with a relaxing sailing cruise and admiring these beautiful cliffs!

Dolphin & Whale Eco-Cruise with Food & Drinks – An environmentally friendly experience with dolphins, food and drinks, what more can you ask for?

A pair of pilot whales we spotted on our Tenerife whale and dolphin watching tour

A pair of pilot whales we spotted in Tenerife

The catamaran we did our whale watching cruise with

Visit San Cristobal de la Laguna

San Cristobal de la Laguna, commonly known as just La Laguna, is a city in the northern part of Tenerife. It used to be the capital city of the island, and even if it no longer holds that title, it’s still a must-see in Tenerife.

The historical centre of the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

You can easily spend a few hours walking around the historical centre, admiring the colonial architecture and feeling like you stepped back in time.

La Laguna might not be as big and famous as the cities in Andalusia, like Granada with its Alhambra Palace, Malaga or Cordoba, but it’s still very pretty and worth visiting.

Some of the iconic architecture in San Cristobal de la Laguna

The historical city centre of La Laguna in Tenerife

Go paragliding!

For the real adrenaline junkies out there, this is a must-do bucket list activity! The mountains of Tenerife make for excellent set off spots, and the views are second to none.

You set off from the tall Jurassic Park style mountains, soaring high above the trees and rock formations, flying towards the sea.

Paragliding is always a thrilling experience, but with such a gorgeous landscape it becomes even more special.

Click here to book your paragliding experience in Tenerife!

Paragliding in Tenerife

Go to a beach bar for sunset drinks

While the stunning natural landscapes and fun activities are what made me fall in love with Tenerife, the sense of normalcy that comes with enjoying drinks on the beach at sunset is one of the things I’m craving the most, and can’t wait to go back to.

The west coast of Tenerife is lined with fun beach bars, for all sorts of budgets and tastes. Some have a more club and dancing vibe, while others have a more laid back and chilled surfer vibe.

Some of my favourites were Roca Negra Sunset Club and Coqueluche Beach Bar . Here you can sip on a mojito while nibbling tasty snacks, and watching the sun set in the ocean.

Enjoying some sunset drinks with my friend Ari at Coqueluche Beach Bar in Tenerife

Taste the local cuisine

Spanish cuisine is amongst my favourite in the world, and in Tenerife there are plenty of restaurants where you can taste it. I especially love tapas and pinchos, since with their little dishes they allow you to taste lots of different plates in one meal.

Some of my favourite restaurants in Tenerife were El Jardin de la Abuela and La Cuevita del Mar . You can try all the traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas, pimientos del padron and almogrote cheese.

Eating delicious Canarian food after a long day of exploring Tenerife, hiking or surfing is the perfect ending for a day in Tenerife . I can’t wait to go back to Tenerife and taste the flavoursome Canarian cheeses again.

An awesome platter of fresh fish that we had at Delicias del Mar in Tenerife

Hike the Rambla de Castro trail

This coastal walk was amongst my favourite trails in Tenerife. With its steep cliffs and palm trees, Rambla de Castro will give you some serious Bali vibes.

You can also hike down to Playa de Castro, a black rock beach surrounded by tall cliffs. Here you will also find a waterfall that you can stand under and cool down, it’s easily one of the most scenic waterfalls I’ve ever seen!

There isn’t much elevation and the path is well kept and easy to walk along. It’s a fairly easy hike with stunning coastal views, which I think should feature on any Tenerife bucket list.

Enjoying the coastal views during the Rambla de Castro hike

Playa de Castro seen from the Rambla de Castro trail

Visit the natural pools of Garachico

Given the rocky coastline and powerful sea of Tenerife, it shouldn’t surprise you that there are countless natural pools all over the island. My personal favourites were the natural pools of Garachico.

Located in the town of Garachico, the Piscinas Naturales de El Caleton are natural salt-water rock pools that you can swim in. There are also man made additions where you can sun bathe and chill between swims.

Personally I really enjoyed these pools as we were visiting on a day when the sea was very big, and we spent the afternoon diving in the huge waves and playing in the current.

The Piscinas Naturales de El Caleton in Garachico, Tenerife

Where to stay in Tenerife

When deciding where to stay in Tenerife , you need to take into account your personal preferences. Tenerife is an incredibly varied island, which can accommodate many different type of travellers.

If you’re a young traveller looking to party and meet new people you would have more fun staying in Las Americas, if you’re a family looking for a peaceful beach holiday you will prefer Costa Adeje, or if you’re a hiking fan you would probably prefer staying in Puerto de la Cruz or La Laguna.

However it’s always handy to remember that Tenerife is a small island, and regardless of where you’re staying you can easily drive around the whole island in around one hour.

So while you might prefer staying close to the lively nightlife of Las Americas, you could be hiking up Mount Teide after just a 1.5 hour drive.

The sunset view from my apartment at El Dorado Residence in Las Americas, Tenerife

I listed below some accommodation options for every budget in different parts of the island.

Budget: Banana Surf House – This cute surf house is perfect for those looking for a cosy stay in a great location, without breaking the bank. It also has a huge rooftop with great sea views.

Click here to book your stay at Banana Surf House!

Mid-range: El Dorado Residence – I spent my first two months in Tenerife in an apartment in this residence, and loved every day of it. My apartment was spacious, in a great location (close to both the beach and supermarket) and had awesome sea and sunset views. I can highly recommend it.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for apartments in El Dorado residence!

Luxury: Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro – This hotel is set in a traditional Canarian barn from the 1720s, and it still retains the rugged look, while having modern comforts like a pool. Located in Arona, it’s perfect for those who want to be close to Las Americas, without being in the heart of the party town.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro!

The pool at Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro in Arona, Tenerife

Final thoughts on the top things to do in Tenerife

There you have it, the ultimate compilation of best things to do in Tenerife!

I hope you find this guide useful in planning your trip to Tenerife, and that it has inspired you to head straight to the island once we’ll be able to travel freely again! Maybe for a Christmas trip to Tenerife ?

Spain has always been one of my favourite countries in Europe. I spent time in Barcelona , Seville and many of the Canary Islands, but Tenerife has a special place in my heart.

Thanks to the huge variety of landscapes and things to do, you never run the risk of being bored. Even after spending two months living there, I always found a new hiking trail or surf spot I hadn’t yet explored.

With its warm temperatures it’s one of the best winter sun spots in Europe , and a place that I absolutely adored living in for a winter .

So while Spain is without a doubt on my mind, it’s mostly Tenerife I’m thinking about, and I can’t wait to go back there!

This post was brought to you as a result of the #SpainOnMyMind campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with the Spain Tourist Office. Greta’s Travels maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site.

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Photo collage of the cliffs of Los Gigantes, Anaga Rural Park, Playa de las Teresitas from above and the sunset over Costa Adeje with text overlay saying

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The Hotel Guru

5 of Tenerife's Best Rural Hotels

If there’s one Canary Island where the interior really does equal - or outshine - its sunny beaches, it is Tenerife. Soaring above everything is the perfect peak of Teide, Spain’s highest mountain (3718 metres) surrounded by a moonscape of dusty-red, volcanic rock formations that look the perfect backdrop for a Wild West movie. And some of the best rural hotels on Tenerife are situated amongst this splendour.

The walking here, in what is Spain’s largest national park, is as exhiliarating as the views. And if you don’t feel you can manage the climb to the top of Teide, there’s a handy cable-car that gets you to within an hour’s walk of the top. The park also contains the Teide Astronomic Observatory offering one of the best places to stargaze in the northern hemisphere.

The Anaga Mountains, in the north, offer further walking opportunities as does the Parque Rural de Teno in the North West. Here, you’ll find the lovely mountain town of Masca. Another good base is La Orotava, inland from the handsome resort of Puerto de la Cruz, and a delight of cobbled streets, colonial mansions and flower-filled plazas. Surrounded by a pine-clad valley with vineyards and chestnut trees, it offers some of the best of town and rural Tenerife.

‘Casas rurales’ or hotels and guesthouses in one of the inland towns and villages offer some of the best rural hotels on Tenerife.

Rural Escapes for Families on Tenerife

La Casona del Patio is a 17th century manor house turned family friendly rural retreat. Comfortable rooms offer a wealth of period features, and the restaurant is renowned for its great seafood. For families there is flexible accommodation, kids' menus and loads of space for letting off steam!

The Best Mountain Retreats on Tenerife

In a perfect location in the mountains near Teide National Park, the rooms - most with balconies - at Hotel Villalba enjoy stunning views. Rooms are unpretentious, plus there’s an indoor pool.
Parador de Las Canadas del Tiede is a charming mountain lodge set amid the Tiede National Park. As well as simply stunning views, you'll find charming rooms, outdoor pool, gym and excellent restaurant.

Tenerife's Rural Luxury

The adults-only Hacienda del Conde is tucked away near the sea and under mountains and well away from touristy Tenerife. Rooms are smartly contemporary, and there’s a choice of pools and restaurants, as well as a spa.

Rural Hotels by the Ocean

Surrounded by banana plantations, yet also close to the beach, the adults-only Hotel Rural el Navio has simple but charming rooms - some with balconies or terraces - and a pool.

Still not found the perfect hotel amongst our pick of rural hotels on Tenerife?

Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Tenerife ,
check out all our recommendations for rural hotels in the Canary islands

Hotel Rural El Navio Alcalá, Tenerife 8 rooms from £87

A charming little hotel on the coastline surrounded by banana plantations and seaviews. Basic, but characterful rooms have stone floors, iron beds, attractive rugs, and private balconies. A lovely rural spot close to the beaches and mountain areas. See More

La Casona del Patio Santiago del Teide, Tenerife 20 rooms from £85

A quaint and easy-going hotel, set in a restored 17th century manor house. The comfortable rooms boast a lovely blend of wooden vaulted ceilings, stone floors, funky furniture and antiques. Enjoy traditional recipes at the tasty seafood restaurant brimming with character and unpretentious charm. See More

Hotel Villalba Vilaflor, Tenerife 27 rooms from £108

Hotel Villalba is a relaxing hillside retreat set in the mountains near the Teide National Park. The rooms are modestly decorated and feature attached balconies with great views out over the surrounding valley. Explore the nearby UNESCO World Heritage El Teide and its lunar landscape. See More

Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide La Orotava, Tenerife 25 rooms from £95

The only hotel on Tenerife in a Nature Reserve. Fantastic views towards the mountains, an excellent restaurant, charming rooms, gym and pool. A remote spot with lots of fresh mountain air. A back to nature holiday in the great outdoors. See More

Hacienda del Conde Tenerife 117 rooms from £208

A fabulous five-star hotel off the Tenerife tourist trail. With plush rooms, three restaurants, two swimming pools and an extensive spa, it caters to all preferences. Golfers will cherish the superb Ballesteros designed course facing the sea. Adults only - perfect excuse to leave kids at home. See More

Written by Helen Pickles

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6 Charming villages and small towns in Tenerife
1. Masca. Masca is probably the most famous village in Tenerife, although judging by its size it's probably more of a hamlet than a proper village. The road to Masca is probably the scariest and at the same time most exciting drive in Tenerife, so the simple journey to get to Masca is worth the trip there. 2.
Insider Tips About Visiting the Anaga Rural Park In Tenerife
Unfortunately, permits do book out in advance, so you'll need to be prepared and book around 1-3 months in advance. Thankfully, there are no other places that require Anaga Rural Park tickets to visit. Best Viewpoints in Anaga, Tenerife. There are numerous Miradors in the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife, which provide utterly spectacular views.
Anaga Rural Park In Tenerife
1. Hike the Roque de Taborno Trail. Known as the 'Matterhorn of Tenerife', Roque de Taborno is a striking rock formation located in the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its ancient laurel forests and rugged terrain. The trail to Roque de Taborno is a moderately challenging one, spanning about 3 kilometers, and it takes ...
Anaga Rural Park
Also, while you can visit Anaga Rural Park on your own, this guided hike is a wonderful way to learn more about the place, and it's one of the best tours in Tenerife. Trail of the Senses in the Anaga Forest. There are several hiking trails in Anaga, Tenerife, but one of the most popular is the Trail of the Senses, which once connected the ...
The 11 most beautiful villages of Tenerife
Teno Alto. Tenerife is not only dream beaches, there is also space for places of calm and retreat and Teno Alto is one of its best examples. This small village formed by a few houses is located in the west of the island, within the Teno Rural Park. It offers its visitors a space of silence in the middle of nature.
Best Things To Do In Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife
We created this guide to show you the best Anaga hikes, viewpoints and beaches. Most people visit Anaga park as a day trip, but it deserves more than just one day. Spend at least 3-4 days exploring it if you can. Best place to stay for visiting Anaga Rural Park: luxury: La Laguna Gran Hotel, San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
Best places to visit in Tenerife
Los Gigantes Diving Centre plunges into the deep blue to find stingrays, barracuda, and turtles swirling between the volcanic arches and caverns. In 2021, Tenerife's west coast was declared Europe's first Unesco Whale Heritage Site. Its mild climate makes it one of the world's best places for whale watching.
How to Visit Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife [2024]
Buses to Anaga Rural Park from La Laguna. Bus routes 274, 275, 271, 76, 77 all go to various parts of Anaga. Using buses can work better than a hire car too. This is because you can access the start of a trail via one bus route and return to La Laguna via another at the end of the trail.
Best Things To Do In Teno Rural Park, Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is rich in unique natural beauties, and Teno Rural Park - Parque Rural de Teno in Spanish - is one of the proofs.This is a special corner of Tenerife, a mountainous region with deep ravines and vertical rock walls, laurel forests, isolated beaches, traditional Canarian architecture and peaks that rise above 1300 meters.
Anaga Rural Park: Escape to Tenerife's Ancient Mountains
in Canary Islands, Europe, Spain, Tenerife. Anaga Rural Park is a protected natural area in the northeastern tip of Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain. This mountainous region full of craggy peaks and deep ravines was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2015. Anaga earned its UNESCO status in part because it encompasses the largest ...
Visiting Punta de Teno in Teno Rural Park, Tenerife
Finally, another place that you can visit in Teno Rural Park is the Altos de Baracán viewpoint. Considered one of the best viewpoints in Tenerife, it's located 2,640 feet above sea level and at a strategic point that allows you to see the difference in scenery between the northern and southern parts of Tenerife. More specifically, the ...
12 Prettiest Towns in Tenerife to Visit (or Stay in) on Your Trip
But it is full of rural-style hotels and heritage homes like Hotel Emblematico San Agustin or Hotel Emblematico San Marcus. This is why you get a very homey feeling and authenticity. This town is also a wonderful pick for where to stay in Tenerife for budget travelers who want to visit Teno Mountains and see in depth places in northern Tenerife.
How To Spend 4 Days In Tenerife: 2024 Guide
Spectacular landscapes of Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife Day 3: Cultural Day Trips and Landmarks San Cristobal de la Laguna. Filled with colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and historic cathedrals, San Cristobal de la Laguna is a great place to visit in Tenerife. One of the best things to do in San Cristobal is visit the Drago Milenario.
The most beautiful places in Tenerife
The first, Parque Nacional del Teide, sits slap bang in the middle of the island, and is dominated by El Teide, the most imposing of the Canaries' many awesome volcanoes, which at 3,718 metres is Spain's tallest peak. The park's 190 square kilometres comprise one vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an extraordinary place to explore ...
12 Most Beautiful Places in Tenerife to Visit
1. Anaga Rural Park. Tenerife is home to many wonders, and the Anaga Rural Park stands out as one of the most beautiful places in Tenerife. This lush paradise, located in the northeastern part of the island, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
14 BEST Places to Visit in Tenerife (2024)
Costa Adeje. The charming and lively town of Costa Adeje is our number one pick for where to stay in Tenerife if you're visiting for the first time. Set on the island's southwest coast, Costa Adeje is a vibrant city with dozens of beach bars and clubs, as well as restaurants, cafes and shops. Places to visit:
Parque Rural de Teno
Teno Rural Park is located in north-west Tenerife, in one of the first parts of the island to emerge from the sea, containing materials that are between 6 and 7 million years old. Erosion has shaped the landscape over the ages, carving out deep ravines that run through these lands from summit to coast. The views from the heads of the ravines ...
10 Must-See Places in Tenerife On Your First Trip
Anaga Rural Park, view from Mirador Pico del Inglés 5. Masca Valley. Nestled between towering cliffs, Masca Valley is a hidden gem awaiting your discovery. Despite being quite remote, Masca Valley is among the must-see places to visit in Tenerife. A trip to the Masca Valley feels like a trip back in time.
Hidden Tenerife: best places to avoid the crowds
A popular trek through Anaga Rural Park begins at the visitor center in Cruz del Carmen, on the TF-12 road, and wends down the trail to the coastal hamlet of Taganana for a dip in the ocean. ... The best 8 places to visit in Tenerife: from cliff-hugging villages to culture-loaded cities. Jul 13, 2022 • 11 min read. Activities.
FULL Tenerife Road Trip Guide
Guide for a Tenerife Road Trip including best places to visit in Tenerife, driving in Tenerife, Tenerife road trip itinerary, Tenerife road trip map and lots more ... Drive into Northern Tenerife through Anaga Rural Park and Chinamada; Stay overnight in the city of San Cristobal de La Laguna in La Laguna Gran Hotel;
TENERIFE Must See: 15 AWESOME Things To Do In Tenerife
1 15 awesome things to do in Tenerife. 1.1 Explore Teide National Park. 1.2 Go hiking in the Parque Rural de Anaga. 1.3 Relax at Playa de las Teresitas. 1.4 Enjoy the waves at Playa de Benijo. 1.5 Learn to surf in Las Americas. 1.6 Admire the view from Mirador Cruz del Carmen. 1.7 Discover the village of Masca.
5 of Tenerife's Best Rural Hotels, Spain
Hotel Rural El Navio Alcalá, Tenerife 8 rooms from £87. Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. A charming little hotel on the coastline surrounded by banana plantations and seaviews. Basic, but characterful rooms have stone floors, iron beds, attractive rugs, and private balconies.