Have you heard of the Teno Rural Park?
Official Website
Coral Hotels | Have you heard of the Teno Rural Park?
Have you heard of the Teno Rural Park?
June 18, 2026
Nature and SportsActivities
When we think of Tenerife, almost all of us picture the southern beaches or the imposing silhouette of Mount Teide. However, tucked away in the north-western corner of the island lies a hidden gem of rugged landscapes, hair-raising roads and a lush greenery that seems to belong to another latitude. We’re talking about the Teno Rural Park, an ancient volcanic massif where time seems to have stood still.
If you’re someone who’s looking to connect with unspoilt nature and the most authentic local culture, get ready, because we’re going to break down everything this corner of Tenerife has to offer.
What exactly is a ‘Rural Park’?
Before we lace up our hiking boots, it’s worth understanding what we’re stepping into. A Rural Park is a protected area that seeks not only to conserve biodiversity and the landscape, but also to safeguard the cultural heritage and traditional activities of the people who live there.
Unlike a National Park (where human intervention is minimal), in a Rural Park nature and people coexist in harmony. Here you’ll see terraced farming, local livestock farming (the local goat’s cheeses are spectacular!) and traditional architecture that blends seamlessly into the surroundings.
What you can’t miss: Teno’s must-sees
The Teno massif is a jigsaw puzzle of deep ravines, ancient forests and cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic. Here are your must-see stops:
1. The village of Masca and the Masca Ravine
Masca is a village literally perched on the mountain ridges. Its stone houses and palm trees seem to defy gravity.
The Ravine: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the descent down the Masca Ravine is one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Canary Islands. Bear in mind, however, that access is regulated and requires a compulsory advance booking, as visitor numbers are limited to ensure safety and the conservation of the environment.
2. Punta de Teno and its lighthouse
This is the westernmost point of the island and a magical place. The landscape here becomes arid, volcanic and wild. Its red and white lighthouse contrasts with the deep blue of the ocean and offers one of the best views of the Los Gigantes cliffs.
Please note: To protect this ecosystem, access by private car is restricted for most of the day. The best (and most sustainable) option is to take the guagua (bus) that leaves from Buenavista del Norte.
3. Monte del Agua (The Green Lung)
If you thought Tenerife was just sun and volcanic rock, this forest is set to change your mind. Monte del Agua is a remnant of laurisilva, a subtropical rainforest that survived the last ice age. Walking along its paths, shrouded in mist (the famous ‘sea of clouds’), is like travelling millions of years back in time.
4. Cherfe Viewpoint
For the ultimate postcard view of the park, you must stop at this viewpoint. From here, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view that takes in the Santiago del Teide valley, the Teno massif itself and, on a clear day, the islands of La Gomera and La Palma on the horizon.
Tips for an unforgettable visit
To help you enjoy Teno like a true explorer, bear these recommendations in mind:
Be prepared for microclimates: In Teno, you might start the day at 24°C on the coast and, after a twenty-minute drive through the mountains, find yourself at 12°C and surrounded by mist. Always carry a light jacket and a raincoat in the boot.
Drive carefully: Teno’s roads are a marvel of engineering, but they are narrow, winding and full of hairpin bends. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Eat local: Stop off at the taverns in Santiago del Teide, El Palmar or Buenavista. Order ‘papas arrugadas’ with ‘mojo’ sauce, matured goat’s cheese or ‘escaldón de gofio’. Supporting the local economy is the best way to keep this Rural Park alive.
Stay at Coral Los Silos and, whilst you’re there, explore the magical village of Los Silos.
Teno is yet another example of how Tenerife is an island of contrasts, where the wildest nature and traditions resist being swallowed up by the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Are you up for discovering it?
If you’re someone who’s looking to connect with unspoilt nature and the most authentic local culture, get ready, because we’re going to break down everything this corner of Tenerife has to offer.
What exactly is a ‘Rural Park’?
Before we lace up our hiking boots, it’s worth understanding what we’re stepping into. A Rural Park is a protected area that seeks not only to conserve biodiversity and the landscape, but also to safeguard the cultural heritage and traditional activities of the people who live there.
Unlike a National Park (where human intervention is minimal), in a Rural Park nature and people coexist in harmony. Here you’ll see terraced farming, local livestock farming (the local goat’s cheeses are spectacular!) and traditional architecture that blends seamlessly into the surroundings.
What you can’t miss: Teno’s must-sees
The Teno massif is a jigsaw puzzle of deep ravines, ancient forests and cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic. Here are your must-see stops:
1. The village of Masca and the Masca Ravine
Masca is a village literally perched on the mountain ridges. Its stone houses and palm trees seem to defy gravity.
The Ravine: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the descent down the Masca Ravine is one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Canary Islands. Bear in mind, however, that access is regulated and requires a compulsory advance booking, as visitor numbers are limited to ensure safety and the conservation of the environment.
2. Punta de Teno and its lighthouse
This is the westernmost point of the island and a magical place. The landscape here becomes arid, volcanic and wild. Its red and white lighthouse contrasts with the deep blue of the ocean and offers one of the best views of the Los Gigantes cliffs.
Please note: To protect this ecosystem, access by private car is restricted for most of the day. The best (and most sustainable) option is to take the guagua (bus) that leaves from Buenavista del Norte.
3. Monte del Agua (The Green Lung)
If you thought Tenerife was just sun and volcanic rock, this forest is set to change your mind. Monte del Agua is a remnant of laurisilva, a subtropical rainforest that survived the last ice age. Walking along its paths, shrouded in mist (the famous ‘sea of clouds’), is like travelling millions of years back in time.
4. Cherfe Viewpoint
For the ultimate postcard view of the park, you must stop at this viewpoint. From here, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view that takes in the Santiago del Teide valley, the Teno massif itself and, on a clear day, the islands of La Gomera and La Palma on the horizon.
Tips for an unforgettable visit
To help you enjoy Teno like a true explorer, bear these recommendations in mind:
Be prepared for microclimates: In Teno, you might start the day at 24°C on the coast and, after a twenty-minute drive through the mountains, find yourself at 12°C and surrounded by mist. Always carry a light jacket and a raincoat in the boot.
Drive carefully: Teno’s roads are a marvel of engineering, but they are narrow, winding and full of hairpin bends. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Eat local: Stop off at the taverns in Santiago del Teide, El Palmar or Buenavista. Order ‘papas arrugadas’ with ‘mojo’ sauce, matured goat’s cheese or ‘escaldón de gofio’. Supporting the local economy is the best way to keep this Rural Park alive.
Stay at Coral Los Silos and, whilst you’re there, explore the magical village of Los Silos.
Teno is yet another example of how Tenerife is an island of contrasts, where the wildest nature and traditions resist being swallowed up by the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Are you up for discovering it?