If you fancy a refreshing dip in the sea, the natural pools in the wild north coast of Tenerife are certainly a great alternative to the fine sandy beaches in the south. The ocean and volcanic activity have created a landscape of sharp, black rocks that are home to pools with crystal clear water and a colourful seabed.

In other words, the natural pools typical of the north of Tenerife are special places that will make you feel in paradise and connect completely with nature. Specifically, the coastline of the so-called Isla Baja – from Buenavista del Norte to Garachico – has a wide range of picturesque pools ideal for a dip in the sea.

These authentic bathing spots on the north coast of Tenerife are set in idyllic volcanic landscapes, unspoilt and far from mass tourism. For this reason, most of them can only be reached on foot.

Of course, we love them too and that is why in this article we would like to share our favourites with you.

How were the natural pools in the north of Tenerife formed? 

Natural pool or “charco” is the name of a natural phenomenon very characteristic of Tenerife and the Canary Islands, which also occurs on other islands of volcanic origin. It is an area on the north coast designed by lava flowing into the sea. Once the incandescent lava came into contact with the cold water, it solidified and as a result formed pools surrounded by natural walls, where you can have a pleasant and completely safe seawater bath.

Most of these puddles are totally natural, while others have been partially modified to provide access and comfort for bathers. However, they have lost none of their natural charm. Some, for example, have metal steps and natural stone sunbathing areas.

The 5 most recommended natural pools on the north coast of Tenerife

To understand the geological significance of this extraordinary coastline from Buenavista del Norte to Garachico, you first need to know what an “Isla Baja” (translated: lower island) is and how it was built. Originally, there was a small platform on which the present-day volcano Montaña de Taco rose. Its lava flows spread out like a fan and produced the lower island.

However, today’s Isla Baja does not owe its formation exclusively to this volcano, but to other lava masses from higher altitudes in the Teno Rural Park. These enabled the area on the north coast to extend even further into the sea and set up what is now known as the fajana or plain.

By way, a most recent example of this natural phenomenon took place on 29 September 2021 in the northwest of the island of La Palma when the lava masses of the Tajogaite volcano poured into the sea and generated a new peninsula.

As a result, the north coast of Tenerife is dotted with ponds and authentic natural pools of lava and salt water that will surprise you. We list five of them that we have chosen for their beauty and which are very close to Tabaiba Guesthouse.

Charco Las Mujeres

On the coast of Buenavista del Norte, a path of barely a kilometre and a half connects the beaches of Las Arenas and El Fraile and passes by different ponds that appear when the tide rises and falls. Some, such as Charco Roque, are very popular with local people, especially in summer. The path has benches and viewpoints that look out over the Atlantic. There are also gaps between the rocks that invite you to climb down and take a plunge.

But it’s worth going further to Charco Las Mujeres, which even has some sand at the bottom and where you can swim your laps. You are also likely to find local fishermen in the neighbourhood. This natural swimming pool is also made for a family outing, as you can park your car a short distance away.

Around Las Arenas beach, the most famous and main beach of Buenavista del Norte, you will find other pools with easy access. One of them has a ramp from the beach to enter the water. In our article Trail in Buenavista del Norte you can also find out about many special features of this charming coastline in the northwest of Tenerife.

Location: Google Maps

Charco El Rayo 

Close to the border with the municipality of Los Silos is the Charco del Faro de Buenavista. Because of its shape, it is a very outstanding puddle. Also known as Charco El Rayo, it is a wonderful location on the north coast of Tenerife due to the scenery it offers. It is also close to the Teno Rural Park, a hiking reserve that we highly recommend. The crystal-clear water of this immense natural pool will allow you to appreciate its rock formations even better. However, be careful when descending and entering the water, as there are many loose stones.

Although some locals claim that the basin arose by a lightning strike, it is more likely that erosion was responsible for sculpting this curious crater-like site. You can get there from Buenavista del Norte taking the white lighthouse some 400 metres away as a reference point. Note that this lighthouse is NOT the one at Punta de Teno (red and white one), where you will also find some natural pools. Check them out by reading our article Travelers’ Guide to Punta de Teno.

Thanks to its location, Charco El Rayo is the perfect place to switch off and relax, as it is not usually crowded. To have a good day’s swimming you should time your visit to coincide with the high tide hours. But be always careful with the waves and currents, particularly on days when the sea is very rough.

Location: Google Maps

Charco Los Chochos

This amazing spot is located in the municipality of Los Silos, four kilometres from Buenavista del Norte. It is one of the most beautiful pools on the north coast of Tenerife, not only because of the contrast between the blue of the sea and the black volcanic rock, but also because from here you can see the cliffs of La Culata and the Teide volcano on a clear day.

The natural pool has a maximum depth of two metres at its deepest point and its transparent water is quiet and without strong currents. There are also stairs with railings to get into the water comfortably and safely. On some occasions you may find the waters more choppy, mainly at high tide, when some small fish swim in. The pool is very easy to get to, as all you have to do is leave the historic centre of Los Silos behind you and take the road to El Puertito. Just a few metres away, the impressive original skeleton of a baleen whale (Baleanoptera borealis borealis) stands out.

As a curiosity, Charco Los Chochos owes its name to the fact that in this place the peasants used to soak lupins in salt water to remove the peculiar bitterness of this legume known in the Canary Islands as chocho.

Location: Google Maps

Charco Don Gabino

This enchanting puddle of volcanic rock and transparent water is located on the coast of Los Silos. Its name refers to Gabino Dorta, a well-known owner of banana plantations. You can reach this pool on foot, following the same trail that leads to Charco Los Chochos. Once there (there’s a sign), all you have to do is go down a few steps, unroll your towel and cool off in the waters of the Atlantic.

Charco Don Gabino is a natural pool about ten metres long and two metres deep at its deepest part. It has an area fitted out as a solarium and several entrances made of volcanic stone. Nevertheless, please avoid the part facing the sea, as the waves are usually very strong in this section.

For those who prefer to combine swimming with a two-hour walk, we suggest the coastal path from Buenavista del Norte to Los Silos. You first walk down to the lighthouse on an asphalted road between banana plantations and then continue to the right on a hiking trail that runs parallel to the coast. On the way, you pass several puddles and enjoy fantastic views of the Teno Mountains with the Teide volcano in the distance.

Location: Google Maps

El Caletón 

In the fishing village of Garachico, about nine kilometres from Buenavista del Norte, the natural pools of El Caletón guarantee a bathing day with a breathtaking panorama. These large pools are a result of the eruption of the Trevejo volcano in 1706. Hot lava was shaped as it cooled with the force of the sea, creating these twisted forms, which became one of Tenerife’s most important tourist attractions.

The natural pools of Garachico fill and empty thanks to the tides and wave action. They are most striking during high tide. El Caletón is a family-friendly complex with numerous access ladders to the water and sun terraces. It also has lifeguards in summer, a bar-restaurant with a chill-out terrace on the lava itself, car parks, a public swimming pool, the nearby Muellito beach and countless renowned restaurants and shops at a short distance.

Location: Google Maps

Useful tips for visiting the natural swimming pools in the north of Tenerife

To make the most of your “charco experience” you should follow some important recommendations and warnings.

• Wear swimming or surf shoes for safe access to the pools – the stones are slippery!
• Some rocks have sea urchins on them, be careful if you have to lean on.
• Before jumping into the water immediately, check how deep the pool is – they are usually very shallow!
• Watch how the locals get in and out of the puddles.
• Never ignore the power of the ocean, be alert and, if the sea is too rough, don’t take any risks.
• Beware of high tides combined with swell: take extra precautions!
• Don’t forget good sun protection. There is neither shade at the pools nor the possibility to put up a sun umbrella.
• Bring your snorkelling equipment or diving glasses if you want to see the colourful world under water.
• Most of the pools are in zones without any facilities, so it is recommended to bring food and water.
• Take your rubbish home with you (including cigarette butts) and leave these unique spots clear.

Would you like to discover some of these natural pools? Have you already known one of them? We look forward to reading about your impressions and experiences.

See you soon … ¡Hasta pronto!

Karin and Sergio

 

Cycling in Buenavista del Norte is sporty, healthy and a climate-friendly alternative to discover Tenerife’s northwest. The surroundings stand out with a varied landscape such as impressive coasts, subtropical mountain landscapes or charming villages. In short, the region offers scenic tours with interesting destinations.

In the following article we present the most beautiful cycling tours in Buenavista del Norte. All of them start directly at Tabaiba Guesthouse and have different levels of difficulty. On these routes, both recreational athletes and professionals will find optimal ways to explore Tenerife’s  green northwest off the beaten path and far away from the big tourist centres.

Buenavista del Norte – Paradise for cyclists

Annual average temperatures of 23 degrees (it can get warmer in July and August!) and 3,000 hours of sunshine a year provide ideal conditions for cyclists in Tenerife. However, you should be in pretty good shape, because you will search almost in vain for completely flat paths without any ascents.

Especially the cycle paths in the  Teno Rural Park often lead over mountain passes or downhill side roads. But it’s worth it, because once you reach the top, there are usually breathtaking views and winding descents, so that every metre of altitude becomes a real pleasure.

3 top cycling tours in Buenavista del Norte

In the surroundings of Buenavista del Norte there are three great cycling tours, from easy to challenging. All routes follow the same way there and back, that is to say they are not round trips. We recommend to assess your level of fitness and ability before starting each tour. In any case, all three itineraries lead along asphalted main and secondary roads.

Those who cannot manage the cycling tours with a “normal” bicycle or do not bring their own bicycle to Tenerife can alternatively rent an e-bike. There is even a provider in town who offers guided tours with a local guide in addition to bike rental.

From Buenavista del Norte to Garachico

Destination of the tour

This tour leads through the middle of rural Tenerife, past banana plantations and farms with typical fincas. An old connecting path leads along the coast to the lovely harbour town of Garachico. On the way, you will be rewarded with wonderful views of the sea and the mountain slopes of the Teno Rural Park. Sensational contrasts of colourful houses, green nature, bright blue skies and the seemingly endless horizon of the Atlantic Ocean – an absolute “must” on two wheels!

In Garachico there are many nice street cafés and restaurants, as well as the possibility of a refreshing bath. A devastating volcanic eruption in 1706 destroyed large parts of the town. The remains of cooled lava can be seen at the resulting seawater pools El Caletón and the restored Castillo de San Miguel at the harbour. The protected bathing bay Muelle Viejo, located directly below the bend in the road, is also a paradise for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

You should definitely take the time to enjoy a stroll through the historic old town with its pretty, cobbled streets and squares. Some buildings in the pedestrian zone, such as the former San Francisco Convent, survived the lava flood. They are witnesses to Garachico’s past as an important trading and port city of Tenerife. The monastery church is particularly worth a visit because of its wooden ceiling in the Mujédar style.

Who is suitable

This leisurely cycling tour is open to everyone, as it has no major climbs. Rather than a physical challenge it is about a feast for the eyes. In any case, the entire route is on asphalt side roads with very little traffic.

On the other hand, the way back from Garachico to Buenavista del Norte is a little more demanding, as it has some short sections with ascents. If the return journey is too much for you, you can take the bus line 363 from Garachico to Buenavista del Norte (ask the driver beforehand, as there is only limited space for bicycles). More information and timetable can be found on the TITSA website.

For those who want more, we recommend a detour to the fishing village of La Caleta de Interián on the way back. This is an additional 2.5 km and about 100 metres in altitude. From there, you continue directly along the coast to Sibora beach, where you can see an impressive and complete skeleton of a boreal whale.

Afterwards, you can either cycle along the sandy and gravelly coastal path to Buenavista del Norte. Or, in the town of Los Silos, you can return to the outward route on the asphalted side road.

Route data

Length: 10,2 km one way
Altitude metres: +32 / -133 m
Duration: 37 min one way
Route in Google Maps

From Buenavista del Norte to Punta de Teno

Destination of the tour

Undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places in Buenavista del Norte awaits the cyclist at the end of this route. Punta de Teno is the result of a volcanic eruption, the lava of which disappeared into the sea. The resulting area is characterised by an impressive rocky coastline and a barren headland, which also marks the westernmost point of Tenerife. A mysterious and at the same time bizarre lava landscape with one of the most beautiful bathing spots in Tenerife.

The Teno lighthouse is a fairy tale lighthouse. It is completely isolated and next to it you will find a small bay and an old fishing port: La Ballenita. We definitely recommend a swim in the shallow and calm waters of the small pebble beach. From here you also have a fantastic view of the cliffs of Los Gigantes and the neighbouring islands of La Gomera and La Palma.

On the way back, it is worth stopping at the Punta del Fraile viewpoint (Mirador), where the cliffs of the Teno Mountains are within reach and the flat coast of Buenavista del Norte lies at your feet. About halfway along the route, you will also pass through an adventurous tunnel carved out of the rock, divided into two unlit and narrow sections.

Who is suitable

This tour has a low to medium level of difficulty but still requires some stamina. The first few kilometres are a sporty uphill ride, followed by a brisk descent to the famous lighthouse. To get to the Punta de Teno nature reserve, you cycle along the high and winding coastal road TF-445, where you sometimes cycle directly below the vertical cliffs of the Teno Mountains.

The route is particularly attractive for cyclists because it is closed to private motorised traffic at certain times on weekdays. At weekends, only buses are allowed to drive. For detailed information and tips on the Punta de Teno, please read our blog “Traveler’s Guide to Punta de Teno”.

Nevertheless, the road is notorious for fallen stones on the road, so absolute caution is advised. It is also advisable to bring spare parts for possible punctures. In rainy weather or strong winds, however, we do not advise this bike tour.

If the return journey is too strenuous for you, you can take bus line 369 back to Buenavista del Norte. More information about the journey times on the TITSA website.

Route data

Length: 9,7 km one way
Altitude metres: +282 / -394 m
Duartion: 40 min one way
Route in Google Maps

From Buenavista del Norte to Masca

Destination of the tour

This tour into the heart of the Teno Mountains is an absolute highlight in the northwest of Tenerife. A scenic route with some steep climbs leads from Buenavista del Norte through the fertile valley of El Palmar to the picturesque village of Masca. You cycle on asphalted mountain roads through deep gorges, narrow hairpin bends and subtropical vegetation.

Masca is a hidden village, also known as the “Machu Picchu” of the Canary Islands, and a wonderful example of traditional island architecture. The narrow winding streets and rugged mountainsides at the edge of the gorge create a unique atmosphere. Masca may be the second most visited place on Tenerife. Nevertheless, it retains the charm of a traditional rural life, expressed in the cultivated terraces, goat farming and handicrafts, where basket weaving is at the forefront.

On the secluded church square, a huge Indian laurel tree provides shade. Artisans and farmers offer their products for sale here. The perfect place to slow down and take inspiring photos. In the village itself, there are many small restaurants, some of which offer a magnificent view of the famous Masca Gorge.

Who is suitable

Cyclists who want to enjoy the idyllic hamlet must be prepared to sweat. The route to the mountain village at 650 metres above sea level has steep climbs, fast descents and serpentines, so it demands an advance level of experience and stamina.

It is also advisable to set off early in the morning, as the route is constantly uphill right at the beginning and, depending on the time of day, busy car and bus traffic is to be expected. The entire route to the Mirador Altos de Baracán viewpoint (12 km from Buenavista del Norte) is quite steep, with gradients between 13% and 20%. On the other hand, the viewpoint is located on the climatic north-south border of Tenerife and offers a panoramic view of the valley of El Palmar, the Los Carrizales gorge, the volcanoes Teide and Pico Viejo as well as the neighbouring island of La Gomera.

For detailed information we recommend our blog about the Masca Gorge.

Route data

Length: 15,2 km one way
Altitude metres: +793 / -282 m
Duration: 1 h 52 min one way
Route in Google Maps

Bike rental in Buenavista del Norte

If you don’t bring your own bike to Tenerife, there are several bike rental shops in Buenavista del Norte and in nearby Puerto de la Cruz. You can choose between well-maintained touring bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes. The prices range from 15 euros for a normal mountain bike to 30 euros for an e-bike per day and depending on the rental period.

Bike friendly accommodation in Buenavista del Norte

Tabaiba Guesthouse offers you the perfect accommodation to discover the unspoilt northwest of Tenerife by bike. A stay with us guarantees you an authentic holiday experience. Of course, our guests may store their bikes safely and free of charge in our garage. The space is of easy access and equipped with a bicycle stand, a floor pump as well as 220 – 230 V sockets to charge your electric battery for free.

Are you ready for the challenge? See you soon and happy miles!

Karin and Sergio

Fancy a seaside walk with salty breeze, mild climate and fantastic views? This trail in Buenavista del Norte in northwestern Tenerife is a real insider tip. On your way you meet only few tourists and explore the rural surroundings of Buenavista del Norte.

Point of departure is the historic city center from where you walk along the rough coast to an unspoiled beach with a panoramic restaurant. You follow an idyllic path through (almost) untouched nature alongside a green golf course, with beautiful views especially over the wide ocean and the Teno Mountains.

Trail in Buenavista del Norte with 18 sights

This pleasant circular route is 5.4 km long and more of a leisurely stroll. It takes about one and a half hours, but if you want to take great nature shots along the way and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, you will probably need two hours. The coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte is an interesting short trip into the past and presents an ideal opportunity to gain insight into the fascinating geology and natural history of Tenerife. We explain you the 18 most important natural and cultural sights of this self-guided trail.

Starting point of the trail: Buenavista del Norte

Buenavista del Norte is located in the northwesterly-most-point of Tenerife, between a mountainous area with lush vegetation and the rugged Atlantic coast. A peaceful village far away from the overcrowded tourist areas, where it is easy to get in contact with the locals and their traditions. Thanks to its remoteness, a rich cultural heritage within an original landscape have been preserved. 

The green and white trail in Buenavista del Norte is signed with Playa Las Arenas. Starting point is just next to the tourist office in the town center, at the market square Plaza de los Remedios (1) with its church and the typical Canarian houses from the 16th century. All the buildings around the plaza consist of old masonry and tiled roofs. Two floors are arranged around a central courtyard, which gives access to the rooms and premises of the house via a wooden staircase. Sliding windows made of wood are typical, some of which are arranged asymmetrically. In 1983 the entire old town of Buenavista del Norte was declared a historical complex. 

Enjoy the Canarian way of life

Before you start the coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte, we recommend you a short coffee stop at the plaza. Beneath huge laurel trees you can sit relaxed and experience the local life of this beautiful Canarian village. The Canarios are warm, open-minded and communicative people. In addition to the natural beauty of Buenavista del Norte, the contagious serenity of its inhabitants contribute to making the village a very special place.

Do you know where the name Buenavista comes from? Stories tell that the Spanish conquerors were so impressed by its situation between the mountains and the ocean that they spontaneously gave it the name Buenavista, which means “beautiful sight”.

Historic sites on the trail in Buenavista del Norte

Right behind the plaza you cross the Triana Gorge, a green oasis with barbecue places and the former wash houses Los Lavaderos (2). The building is rectangular and consists of fourteen stone wash basins, each of which with a water inlet and outlet. After this, you will pass partly abandoned, partly actively cultivated banana plantations. At the La Visitación chapel (3), the path branches off to the right on a small staircase, past the historic 16th-century building Hacienda de La Fuente (4), manor house and former residence of the founder of Buenavista, Juan Méndez.

On a narrow stony path you walk along the golf course of Buenavista del Norte towards the Atlantic.

Important crop in the Canary Islands: the banana

This idyllic part of the trail in Buenavista del Norte is lined with colourful bougainvillea, opuntias, agaves and aloe. You can see the nice tropical banana trees from the very proximity and without any disturbing fence (5). Did you know that around 140,000 tons of bananas are harvested every year in Tenerife? In short, more than 35,000 Canarios live from the cultivation of this delicious fruit and only about 10% are exported to other European countries.

Playa de Los Barqueros viewpoint

After that, the coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte leads you above the Triana Gorge. At its mouth into the ocean you reach the viewpoint (mirador) Playa de Los Barqueros (6) with a small chapel. It is worth taking a detour down to the picturesque bay which was once the boat dock of the village. But be careful: signs warn of the risk of falling rocks. When the sea is calm you can swim or snorkel here, but bathing shoes are needed because of the slippery stones.

Basalt columns on the cliffs

On the opposite cliff of the bay you can see vertical basalt columns and even a stone daisy (7). These bizarre rock formations made of lava rocks are striking and geologically very interesting. Admire how nature created spectacular landscapes out of rocks reminiscent of the work of a sculptor! The cooling process of the lava is crucial for the formation of these basalt columns which always arise when the lava flow cools very slowly.

Green massif of the Teno Natural Park

Further, the coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte is paved with individual lava stones and meanders along the rugged rocky coast. Hardly anywhere else on Tenerife can you feel as close to the Atlantic. Roaring surf, smell of iodine in the air and sea birds in the sky are balm for the soul. Certainly, walking shoes with a rigid sole are the best choice for this path.

Similarly, the bright green of the golf course designed by the famous Severiano Ballesteros forms an amazing color contrast to the dark lava landscape. In the distance, you see the mountains and deep gorges of the Teno Mountains (8), the oldest part of Tenerife, which was formed by volcanic eruptions about eight million years ago. On days of good visibility you can make great photos from Spain’s highest mountain, the Teide volcano (3,718 m).

Moreover, this stretch of coast once played an important role in feeding the local population. Numerous concheros (parts of shells) lying on the golf course are evidence of this. After collecting the mussels, the guanches (Canarian natives) separated the shell from the edible part to make the goods easier for transport.

Isla Baja – a volcanic platform

Isla Baja stands for the lower island that lies at the foot of the Teno Mountains (9). It originated from recent volcanic eruptions near the coast, where lava masses spread out like a fan. The Buenavista mountain or Taco volcano played an important role in shaping the relief of this part of the island. It underwent different eruptions, both underwater and aerial, that formed the lower island where the town of Buenavista del Norte currently sits.

 

Likewise, further eruptions at more than 700 meters over sea level took place and lava streams flowed through the mountain gorges forming this extensive platform over 300,000 years ago. As a result, the former Teno cliffs have been pushed back from coast. The newly formed Isla Baja is composed of the villages of Buenavista del Norte, Los Silos, Garachico and El Tanque.

Salt pans on the coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte

In an extended left curve you can see on your right several flat holes in the rocks (lajas) that were used to extract salt in summer: the salt pans of La Tablada (10). The Atlantic floods the salt flats with water, crystals form on the surface and the finished product can be collected. To accelerate the evaporation process, the water was scooped by hand from the deeper holes. Certainly, salt was a valuable commodity for the inhabitants of Buenavista del Norte, not only for direct consumption, but above all for the preservation of fish. On the Canary Islands there were once 56 salt pans for the production of marine salt.

Lava ball

During your walk you will encounter a very interesting geological phenomenon, the so-called accretion ball or volcanic egg (11), a large lava stone that formed exactly like a snowball. As it rolled over the liquid lava flow from the higher El Palmar valley, it grew in size until it finally reached the coast of Buenavista del Norte where it solidified.

Plants on the coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte

Being the largest and highest island of the Canary Islands, Tenerife provides an impressive variety of plants. In just a few hundred meters, the vegetation changes radically, because different altitudes and microclimates create different vegetation zones or ecosystems. On your walk you will cross the following two of them.

Firstly, you will find the so-called coastal zone at approximately 50 meters above sea level. Salt-loving plants grow there, because they have adapted to the high salt content in the air (halophiles). Sea lettuce, sea parsley and sea fennel are typical plants. Secondly, appears the dry bush zone of about 50 to 400 meters with shrubby plants defying strong wind and sun. Typical shrubs from the spurge family are the tabaiba and the cactus-like Canary Island spurge or Cardón (12), both are endemic plants. If you want to learn more about the tabaiba plant, read our blog post “How we came up with the name Tabaiba Guesthouse”.

Typical plant on the entire coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte: the Tabaiba

Typical trees and shrubs of the Buenavista del Norte coastline

Anyone who has ever travelled to the Caribbean also knows them: the sea grape or uva de playa (Coccoloba uvifera), an evergreen bush or small tree that also withstands salty sea air and near-desert conditions. Its ripe dark red fruits are edible and are sometimes processed into jam or fruit juice. On the short beach promenade at the end of the trail in Buenavista del Norte you can find particularly beautiful specimens.

Another typical plant is the Canary tarajal or taray (Tamarix canariensis), botanically also known as tamarisk. The dense shrub or small tree grows on coastal salt soils or in the lower part of the ravines. Deep roots keep it firmly anchored in the ground even during storms. Its bark contains tannin (a tannic acid) and coloring, which was formerly used for medicinal purposes. The Tarajal is a very robust plant that is able to adapt to changing and even difficult living conditions.

What to do at the end of the trail in Buenavista del Norte

Do some sport with sea view

The coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte ends at the heated public swimming pool (26 degrees Celsius) with gym and sauna (13). Athletic swimmers can swim in the 25 meter sports pool with seawater at any time of the year. Entrance is 4 euros per person. Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 10pm, Saturday from 10am to 2pm and closed on Sundays. The use of the sauna is by appointment and costs 3 euros per person (tel. 0034 922 12 81 01). To the right of the entrance, visitors are provided with some open-air exercise machines which can be used for free to train in the sun and with views of the Atlantic in front.

Try Canarian cuisine 

Just opposite the swimming pool there is a nice restaurant that specializes in fresh local fish and seafood. It has a large terrace from which you can enjoy a romantic sunset over the neighboring island of La Palma while listening to the sound of crashing waves. You can eat very well here or just enjoy a coffee or sundowner. Opens daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you prefer an outdoor picnic, the coast of Buenavista del Norte is the perfect place.

Lava pools for a unique swimming experience

Swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic is always a pleasure, but the experience turns into something unforgettable when you swim in one of the natural pools of the Canary Islands. These charcos are huge puddles of sea water that were formed naturally between the lava stones. Because of the tides, they always fill with fresh water. Next to the beach, there are numerous charcos of different sizes where you can take a quiet bath protected from the waves (14). However, be careful when you get into the pools, because the lava is very slippery and sometimes sharp-edged.

Beach day in black volcanic sand

The coastal trail through Buenavista del Norte ends at Playa Las Arenas (15). Although meaning “sandy beach”, the sand on this beach varies with the seasons: only from May to November the tides bring the volcanic black sand on the shore. During these months, mainly locals spend their days off on this supervised beach, which is very popular with bodyboard surfers. Watch out for the strong currents and mostly very high waves! In winter, the tides carry the sand away and the bay turns into a wild stone beach. All year round, tis unique setting affords unforgettable sunsets.

Continue on the trail in Buenavista del Norte to a remote beach

If you want to keep on exploring the coast, you can hike some 500 meters more to El Fraile beach, an enchanting bay with strong waves and spectacular views. We do not recommend bathing on this lonely beach. The path to Playa El Fraile begins at the end of Las Arenas beach, at a picturesque stone-wooden bridge (16) behind the beach kiosk.

Way back to Buenavista del Norte

You can walk back either on the same coastal hiking path or along a little-used asphalt road. This starts about 20 meters in front of the beach restaurant at the roundabout (17) with parking space for campers, and continues uphill along the golf course to the Melià Hacienda del Conde hotel (18). In terms of architecture, the 5-star hotel is reminiscent of a magnificent palace. The spa belonging to the hotel offers a thermal circuit, a sauna and a Turkish bath. Massages can also be booked here by non-guests.

At the end of the street, turn left and follow the cobblestone path down to the Hacienda del Conde mansion (4). After a few meters uphill, you will pass the La Visitación chapel (3) and shortly afterwards meet again on the signposted hiking trail to Buenavista del Norte.

Trail in Buenavista del Norte for download 

We invite you to discover this pleasant walk on your next visit to Buenavista del Norte and hope that our description helps you. If you are looking for some peace and seclusion, this is the ideal path for you!

Don’t be afraid to get lost and download the complete route map with the main points of interest.

Tabaiba Guesthouse offers you the right accommodation to explore the green northwest of Tenerife. Book your stay with us for an authentic holiday experience. Further, we know other wonderful trails in the surrounding areas, which we will present you in this blog. If you want to discover them with our in-house professional mountain guide, contact Sergio Walking Tours

See you soon!

Karin and Sergio