Cycling in Buenavista del Norte

Cycling in Buenavista del Norte is a sporty, healthy and climate-friendly way to discover the northwest of Tenerife. The area offers a wide variety of landscapes, from stunning coastlines to subtropical mountains and charming villages. In short, the region offers scenic tours with interesting destinations.

In the following article we present the most beautiful cycling routes in Buenavista del Norte. They all start directly from Tabaiba Guesthouse and have different levels of difficulty. These routes are ideal for both recreational and professional cyclists to explore the green north-west of Tenerife, off the beaten track and away from the main tourist centres.

Buenavista del Norte – Cycling paradise

With an average annual temperature of 23 degrees (it can get warmer in July and August!) and 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, Tenerife is ideal for cycling. However, you need to be in pretty good shape, as you will be hard pressed to find completely flat roads with no gradients.

The cycle routes in the Teno Rural Park, in particular, often take you over mountain passes or downhill side roads. But it’s worth it, because when you get to the top you’re usually rewarded with breathtaking views and winding descents that make every metre of climbing a real pleasure.

3 top cycling tours in Buenavista del Norte

There are three great cycle routes around Buenavista del Norte, ranging from easy to challenging. All the routes follow the same route out and back, so they are not round trips. We recommend that you assess your level of fitness and ability before embarking on each tour. In any case, all three routes are on tarmac main and secondary roads.

For those who are unable to cycle on a ‘normal’ bike, or who have not brought their own to Tenerife, there is the option of hiring an e-bike. There is even a company in town that offers guided tours with a local guide as well as bike hire.

From Buenavista del Norte to Garachico

Tour destination

This tour takes you through the heart of rural Tenerife. You will pass banana plantations and farms with typical fincas. An old path leads along the coast to the pretty port town of Garachico. Along the way you will be rewarded with stunning views of the sea and the mountainsides 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!

Garachico has many pleasant street cafes and restaurants, as well as the possibility of a refreshing swim. A devastating volcanic eruption in 1706 destroyed much of the town. Remnants of the cooled lava can be seen in the seawater pools of El Caletón and the restored Castillo de San Miguel in the harbour. The sheltered bay of Muelle Viejo, just around the bend in the road, is also a paradise for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Take time to stroll around the historic old town, with its pretty cobbled streets and squares. Some buildings in the pedestrian area, such as the former convent of San Francisco, survived the lava flood. They bear witness to Garachico’s past as an important trading and port town on Tenerife. The convent church is worth a visit for its Mujédar-style wooden ceiling.

Who is suitable

This leisurely cycle ride is open to all as there are no major climbs. It is more a feast for the eyes than a physical challenge. In any case, the whole route is on tarmac roads with very little traffic.

The return journey from Garachico to Buenavista del Norte, on the other hand, is a little more demanding, with a few short stretches of gradient. If the return journey is too much for you, you can take the 363 bus from Garachico to Buenavista del Norte (ask the driver beforehand as there is limited space for bicycles). More information and timetables can be found on the TITSA website.

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

You can then cycle along the sandy and pebbly coastal path to Buenavista del Norte. Or, in the town of Los Silos, you can take the tarmac road back to the start of the route.

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

Tour destination

One of the most spectacular spots in Buenavista del Norte awaits the cyclist at the end of this route. Punta de Teno is the result of a volcanic eruption whose lava flowed into the sea. The result is an impressive rocky coastline and a barren promontory that marks the westernmost point of Tenerife. A mysterious and bizarre lava landscape with one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife.

The lighthouse of Teno is a fairytale lighthouse. It is completely isolated and next to it there is a small cove and an old fishing port: La Ballenita. A swim in the shallow, calm waters of the small pebble beach is highly recommended. From here you can also enjoy fantastic views 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, where the cliffs of the Teno mountain range are within reach and the flat coast of Buenavista del Norte lies at your feet. Halfway along the route you will also pass through an adventurous tunnel dug out of the rock, divided into two narrow, unlit sections.

Who is suitable

This tour is low to medium difficulty, but does require some stamina. The first few kilometres are an easy climb, followed by a brisk descent to the famous lighthouse. To get to the Punta de Teno Nature Reserve, take the high and winding TF-445 coastal road, which at times runs right under the vertical cliffs of the Teno mountains.

The route is particularly attractive to cyclists because it is closed to private motor vehicles at certain times during the week. At weekends only buses are allowed. For detailed information and tips on Punta de Teno, please read our blog Traveller’s Guide to Punta de Teno.

However, the road is notorious for rocks falling on the road, so be careful. It is also advisable to bring spare parts in case of punctures. We do not recommend this route in rainy weather or strong winds.

If the return journey is too strenuous, you can take the 369 bus back to Buenavista del Norte. Check the TITSA website for timetables.

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

Tour destination

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 tarmac mountain roads through deep gorges, narrow hairpin bends and subtropical vegetation.

Masca is a hidden village, known as the ‘Machu Picchu’ of the Canary Islands, and a wonderful example of traditional island architecture. The narrow winding streets and rugged mountainsides on the edge of the ravine create a unique atmosphere. Masca is perhaps the second most visited place in Tenerife. Yet it retains the charm of a traditional rural life, expressed in its cultivated terraces, goat farming and handicrafts, with basket weaving at the forefront.

A huge Indian laurel tree provides shade in the secluded church square. Artisans and farmers offer their wares for sale. The perfect place to slow down and take inspiring photographs. In the village itself, there are many small restaurants, some with stunning views 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, 650 metres above sea level, has steep climbs, fast descents and hairpin bends, so it requires a certain level of experience and stamina.

It is also advisable to set off early in the morning, as the route is steeply uphill from the start and, depending on the time of day, there may be heavy car and bus traffic. The entire route to the Mirador Altos de Baracán (12km from Buenavista del Norte) is quite steep, with gradients ranging from 13% to 20%. On the other hand, the viewpoint is located on the climatic north-south border of Tenerife and offers panoramic views of the valley of El Palmar, the Los Carrizales ravine, the Teide and Pico Viejo volcanoes and the neighbouring island of La Gomera.

For more detailed information, we recommend our blog on 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 hire companies in Buenavista del Norte and nearby Puerto de la Cruz. You can choose from well-maintained touring bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes. Prices range from 15 euros for a normal mountain bike to 30 euros for an e-bike per day, depending on the length of the rental.

Bicycle-friendly accommodation in Buenavista del Norte

Tabaiba Guesthouse offers you the perfect accommodation to discover the unspoilt northwest of Tenerife by bike. Staying with us guarantees you an authentic holiday experience. Of course, our guests can store their bikes safely and free of charge in our garage. The space is easily accessible and is equipped with a bicycle stand, a floor pump and 220-230V sockets to charge your electric battery free of charge.

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

Karin and Sergio