12 Magical Places You Never Knew Were In Tenerife

Think you know Tenerife? If your first thoughts are of lobster red tourists and British themed pubs, it's time to look a little deeper. Here are 12 places that you won't believe are just a few miles from the tourist hot spots, and to the seasoned Canary travellers, you may find something new too! Take a trip and discover the real people and magic of the Island.

1. The stunning gorges and valleys of Masca

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A must see in Tenerife, if you're feeling brave hire a car, or take the public bus! Have dinner here with, arguably, one of the best views in the world.

2. Cueva Del Viento

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Meaning 'Cave of Wind', this is one of the worlds largest lava tubes and will really make you feel like Indiana Jones. Take a coat and hiking boots!

3. The enchanting Parque Rural de Anaga

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Tenerife, not as arrid and dry as you might think! Visit the tropical Anaga Forest in the North, lush with giant heather, bay trees and ferns, there are many trails through the woodland, all equally stunning.

4. Walk the Barranco Del Infierno

Yup, it translates to Hell's Ravine. But don't worry, the paths are now very walk-able, you'll need to pick up a hard hat from the office before you can begin. The walk starts in Adeje, so no need to travel far in you're already in the south!

5. Camp for free at Las Lajas

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Tenerife has 19 free camp grounds, available all year to anyone, and all accessible by bus and car (and hiking). I recommend Las Lajas for stunning starry nights and some of the best hiking trails. Be sure to get a permit from the government website, and maybe learn a few Spanish phrases before you arrive!

6. ...or camp for free at Los Pedregales

Jo Grisaffi / Via Instagram: @campingcanario

Another free site! Stunning views from all of the pitches, across the valley and 1km from the peaceful town of El Palmar, if you go on a week day you'll most likely have the whole place to yourself.

7. Snorkel around Montaña Amarilla

Less than 10km from the bustling tourist beaches, head to tranquil Montaña Amarilla for clear blue seas, perfect for snorkelling and a little beach bar to finish the day.

8. The Sea of Clouds from Teide and Güímar Valley

Also known as 'Panza de Burro' in Tenerife. Take a coat and a picnic. Breath taking!

9. Hike up to Boca Del Paso

Jo Grisaffi / Via Instagram: @campingcanario

Believe it or not, this is only a 2 hour walk from the main tourist town of Costa Adeje, you'll pass through many different landscapes, and there's a pine forest to cool down in at the top.

10. Playa de Ocadila

This beach really is a secret, in the northern area of Anaga, only accessible by boat or kayak from La Punta del Hidalgo. Well worth it if you have the time.

11. Visit the farming town of Los Bailaderos

Jo Grisaffi / Via Instagram: @campingcanario

Hike or drive to this traditional, friendly community, meet the real people (and animals) of Tenerife and tuck in to a bowl of very local goat stew, a glass of wine or some cheese at one of the restaurants.

12. San Cristóbal de La Laguna

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The first city of the Canary Islands, and a UNESCO world heritage site. Take a walk through the town, and if you're lucky you'll be there on a fiesta day!