Walking in Tenerife: Explore the Canary Island's scenic routes
Although the majority of Europeans cottoned on years ago, the joy of walking in Tenerife is a more recent discovery for us Brits. Now that holidaymakers have realised Tenerife is a great destination for a walking or trekking getaway there is no stopping them!
Exploring this diverse island by foot is an ideal way to discover the real history, culture and beauty that envelop the country. A walking or trekking trip to Tenerife can be as easy or demanding, local or remote as you wish, it's just a case of knowing where to look.
1. Masca Gorge
One of the most memorable walking experiences in Tenerife is the canyon of Masca Gorge.
This prehistoric landscape wouldn't be out of place on a film set, and has visitors clambering along the three hour hiking route through beautiful villages, ending on the beach. Those less inclined to do the return journey can take the boat to Los Gigantes Marina.
2. Cruz del Carmen to Chinamada
The contrast of the usual images of Tenerife and this incredible walk couldn't be more extreme.
You'll find yourself walking through ancient forests and mountain ravines; you can even visit a small hamlet where the locals still live in cave houses. This interesting walk is one of the most popular on the island and it's easy to see why.
3. Los Organos
Those with a head for heights may like to explore the pine scented forests of the upper Orotava Valley and the exposed trail to the rocky pillars of Los Organos.
A carpet of green fields can be seen from this vantage point where you'll find yourself standing above the clouds. Not for the faint-hearted, this walk requires a good deal of stamina as it begins with a straight-up ascent, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
4. Geranium Walk
It's not simply hiking that you'll find on Tenerife, there are also less demanding walks such as the Geranium Walk.
This pretty route encompasses 10 kilometres of palm tree-lined promenade, connecting 12 beaches and running from Los Christianos through Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje to La Caleta. The walk passes a number of tempting bars and shops to lure you in along the way.
5. Erjos Pools
This two-hour circular walk set in deep rural Tenerife was once home to a quarry works and now attracts a wide range of wildlife due to its natural pools, including ducks and dragonflies.
The ramble is the perfect place to take in the flora and fauna of the area, with occasional glimpses of the surrounding rugged mountains.
6. Pico Viejo and Mount Teide
For the best views over neighbouring islands La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro take the cable car from below the peak of Mount Teide and trek along the path to Pico Viejo (the Old Peak).
If you'd prefer to go the whole hog, then climbing Spain's highest mountain, Mount Teide will give a massive sense of achievement and the most spectacular vistas.
A permit which costs nothing is required to go to the top but you have to book well in advance.
Getting to Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, lying roughly 186 miles off the coast of Africa. It's easily accessible from cities around the UK, with flights to Tenerife taking between four and five hours depending on departure point. The following airlines and holiday providers offer various flights and deals to the island:
As you can see, there's more to Tenerife than meets the eye. These are just a few suggestions of the walks available on the island. If you're looking for a holiday destination within a short flight from the UK with lots of 'off the beaten track' places to discover then a holiday walking in Tenerife may be just the ticket. Have you been on a walking in Tenerife? Share your experience below...
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