This cycle route around the beautiful island of Tenerife will show us a different form of looking at the 'Lucky Islands'', as the Canary Islands are called,we have never considered before. We will be able to discover its lush vegetation, which can only be found in this region of the world, and we will also be able to feel the incredible Teide, the island's dormant volcano and its main attraction, watch us from the heights.
This route goes from the north coast to the south coast of Tenerife and starts from Puerto de la Cruz and is followed by a climb through the Valle de La Orotava and its lovely Canarian pine forest. This route takes us to a height of 2,000 metres, in preparation for el Circo de Las Cañadas (2,360 metres), a 42 kilometre climb with its reward: the chance to cycle at the foot of el Teide, the highest mountain in Spain. Then it is on to an easy descent though the valley of Ucanca, a route chosen by such teams as Sky in their preseason training.
The bike starts descending on the road to Chio, in a westward direction, from where the islands of La Gomera and La Palma can be seen on a clear day. Then the cyclist leaves the main road in order to go through the small charming hamlets of Aripe y Chirche, with their stone houses, on the edge of a steep ravine. After returning to wider roads, there is a continuous descent to the beach at Las Vistas, the finish line of this wonderful route which ends in the tourist town of Los Cristianos.
A back-up vehicle is necessary on this route. It is easy to find refreshments, as the cycle starts and finishes in populated areas, where delicious local dishes can be tried. However, the main part of the route is wilder and has an adventurous side, marked by riding through beautiful forests and impressive lava fields.
