Cycling in Buenavista del Norte

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