Off-the-beaten-track destinations in Tenerife: 7 hidden gems

Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is widely known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and perfect climate all year round, which is what makes it such a beloved holiday destination. However, beyond its tourist hotspots lies a trove of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered.

In this guide, we present seven off-the-beaten-track experiences in Tenerife that will take you on an incredible journey of exploration into the island’s unique culture and charming natural beauty.

Anaga Rural Park

Escape the crowds of tourists and head into Anuga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with lush forests, rocky mountains, and quaint villages. Hike along its many scenic trails, encounter diverse wildlife, and take in the impressive panoramic views.

To unwind after your walk, venture to Benijo Beach, located in the northeast part of the island. The black sandy beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and secluded nature. The colossal waves make it perfect for surfers or watersport enthusiasts. There’s also a point where you can head out toward giant oceanic waves by a narrow path formed from rock.

La Laguna

In the north of Tenerife is La Laguna, a city steeped in history and natural beauty. What stands out among its old town is the plethora of churches and religious buildings, combined with its traditional selection of tapas eateries.

Among the buildings open to the public are the palaces of Nava and Salazar, La Iglesia del Cristo, and the neoclassical cathedral. It’s a highly photogenic destination, so make sure you take lots of photos.

Garachico

Once Tenerife’s most prosperous port, Garachico is now a popular day trip destination for those wishing to experience an authentic location filled with Canarian architecture and food. The town has been slowly rebuilt over the years since the devasting eruption of the Montana Negro volcano and is now flourishing with natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a place to chill and relax, Garachico ticks all the boxes: natural pools, a charming square, and local restaurants serving traditional seafood dishes.

Teno Rural Park

A mountainous area covering the extreme eastern part of Tenerife, Teno Rural Park is the perfect definition of an off-the-beaten-path destination. Its relative geographic isolation has led to a unique biodiversity and architecture, which you’ll struggle to find anywhere else in Tenerife.

Once you’re here, you can’t leave until you’ve gone paddle surfing, kayaking, hiking, or mountain biking. There are more than 100km of trails just waiting to be explored, including Tenerife’s deepest ravines, which will take you deep into the heart of the island.

Masca Village

Unofficially the most beautiful village in the Canary Islands, Masca is a largely undiscovered hidden gem in Tenerife. Situated within Teno Rural Park, the unique hamlet is practically remote. What sets it apart from other hamlets is its main centre, which runs along a ridge below a tall pinnacle, giving it a Machu Picchu-like appearance.

The steep walls on either side of the hamlet offer that sense of adrenaline to visitors, adding to the drama of the picturesque view from the top. Masca is accessible by car and is often avoided by tourists due to the hairpin turns, so you don’t need to worry about masses of people.

If you want to make the most of your day here, you should also consider hiking from the hamlet through the Masca Barranco to the Playa de Masca. The hike is all downhill and takes around three hours to complete. As of 2021, safety features have been added to the trail and you are now required to reserve a ticket for free online.

El Médano

El Médano is the perfect location to stay during your time in Tenerife should you wish to avoid the hustle and bustle of the resorts. A laid-back coastal town, it is most famous for its pristine golden sand beaches and perfect wind conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned windsurfer or simply want to relax on the shore, El Médano offers a refreshing alternative to the crowds of tourists.

You can find El Médano a short ten-minute drive away from Tenerife South Airport (TFS) depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. If you haven’t booked a package holiday, you can reserve your Tenerife Airport transfers online, where you’ll be given instructions on how to find your coach or taxi on arrival.

Cueva del Viento

The underground complex of Cueva del Viento is the longest volcanic tunnel in the European Union – and one of the longest in the entire world. Embark on a guided tour deep into the underground labyrinth and marvel at the intricate lava formation.

You’ll also get to hear about how the tunnels were formed, including their geological features and past biology.  The remains of lizards and rats measuring more than a metre have been found here, as well as 170 species of invertebrates.