Tenerife is much more than sun and beach. This Canary Island is home to dream landscapes, from lush forests to impressive volcanic cliffs. If you only have a day to explore it, here is a perfect itinerary that will take you to discover the essence of this natural paradise.
Morning: Hiking in the Enchanted Forest
Start the day by entering a scenery out of a fairy tale: the Natural Reserve of El Pijaral, better known as the Enchanted Forest.
What makes it so special?
This laurel forest is one of the ecological jewels of Tenerife and is part of the Anaga Biosphere Reserve. Its lush vegetation, covered with moss and ferns, will transport you to a mystical world that seems frozen in time.
- Unique biodiversity: Discover endemic species that only grow in this corner of the planet.
- Captivating landscapes: Meandering paths among ancient trees and spectacular views of the Atlantic.
- Living history: A vestige of the forests that covered the Mediterranean in the Tertiary era.
- Responsible tourism: To protect this fragile ecosystem, a free permit is required and must be booked in advance, You can get for the free the permition here.
Practical tips for your visit:
- Difficulty: Medium (6.7 km in approximately 3 hours).
- Suitable for children: Yes, if they are used to walking.
Not recommended for people with reduced mobility.
How to get there: From La Laguna, follow the road towards Anaga to the area of La Ensillada. Be sure to make a stop at the Mirador de La Jardina and Mirador Cruz del Carmen, where you will find a visitor center and the famous Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses).
Afternoon: Explore the charm of Puerto de la Cruz.
After your adventure in the forest, head to the north coast and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Puerto de la Cruz, one of Tenerife’s most picturesque towns.
- Stroll through its old town, where you’ll find charming squares, typical wooden balconies and the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia.
- Enjoy a lunch with Canarian flavor in one of its seaside restaurants. Try the papas arrugadas con mojo (wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce), the Canarian rancho or a good plate of fresh fish.
- Visit the Botanical Garden, a green paradise with exotic species from all over the world, ideal for a relaxing walk.
- Discover Playa del Castillo, one of the most beautiful beaches in the north of the island, with black volcanic sand and a setting surrounded by tropical gardens designed by Manrique.
Sunset: A show above the clouds at the Chipeque Viewpoint
To end the day on a high note, nothing better than watching the sun set from the Mirador de Chipeque. Located more than 1,800 meters above sea level, this place offers one of the most impressive postcards of the island.
From here, if conditions permit, you can see the sea of clouds covering the valley of La Orotava while the imposing Teide rises majestically in the background. A magical moment that will remain engraved in your memory.
Tips for maximum enjoyment:
- Arrive in good time to get a good spot and contemplate the changing colors in the sky.
- Bring warm clothes, as the temperature drops considerably at nightfall.
- If you like photography, this is an ideal spot to capture unforgettable images of the sunset and the stars.
- Enjoy the tranquility, it is a perfect place to disconnect and feel the immensity of the landscape.
Tenerife is an island full of contrasts, where in a single day you can go from an enchanted forest to a vibrant coastal city and end up floating above the clouds. Are you ready to live this unforgettable experience? Come and discover the magic of Tenerife!
