Tenerife, Is that not the island where all the pros go to train at altitude? That's right! Throughout the year, you'll find many professional cyclists, triathletes, and other top athletes on this largest of the total twelve Canary Islands. Thanks to the pleasant climate, and because of the possibility to train at altitude, Tenerife is a haven for many professional cyclists of renown and fame. Names like Lance Armstrong, Chris Froome, and Tom Dumoulin were regularly found here in preparation for their season. Especially the mountain El Teide It will ring a bell for many cycling fans and followers of cycling. But why is Tenerife so popular with cyclists? I looked it up for you during my cycling adventure in Tenerife.
Text and photos: Ruben Hoogland
The journey
There are two ways to travel to Tenerife. By plane, or by ferry. From Schiphol, it’s a four-and-a-half-hour flight. From the port city of Huelva, Andalusia, the ferry crossing takes about an hour and a half. By the way, this last option isn’t very cheap. That’s why flying is the most accessible option for a stay on Tenerife. Unfortunately, it’s less sustainable, but good.
First impression
When you fly to a destination, the first impression is always very sudden. You get into an aluminum capsule and as soon as you get out of the plane you are transported into a completely different world. Unlike when you travel to a destination by car, where the surroundings gradually change, you are suddenly confronted with a completely new world. I arrive at Tenerife South Airport. It is pleasantly warm outside, and the airport is nicely organized. I can see the sea, here and there some palm trees, and in the distance the mountains loom.
Bring your own bike, or rent a bike
I prefer to bring my own bike everywhere. After all, it’s well adjusted, and I’m simply used to it. And also somewhat attached to it. If you fly with Transavia, you pay €49.00 per flight for bringing a bike bag. However, for my trip, a bike was arranged on-site by the guys from Bike Point Tenerife. A BMC Roadmachine 02, equipped with Shimano Ultegra and disc brakes. You never know exactly what you’re getting, so there was some skepticism on my part beforehand. Well, that turned out to be completely unnecessary. The bike ran like a dream, and was perfectly adjusted based on the measurements I had provided in advance. It didn’t take long before I fully trusted the bike and dared to throw myself into the descents as well. This bike costs £1,299 (about $1,600) on eBay, and I’m pretty sure it’s the same bike that I tested in the Netherlands. Bike Point Tenerife € 22.00 per day.
If you are renting a bike on site, I would generally advise you to bring your own saddle and pedals. Even if you have a super bike, you never know if the saddle is suitable for your ergonomics. And nothing is more annoying than having to cut your adventure short due to seating problems. So bring your own saddle if you know you are sensitive to this. Also bringing your own pedals can prevent discomfort when getting in and out of the saddle. You are used to your own way of getting in and out of the saddle, and that is why I always bring my own pedals.
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One island, multiple worlds
Tenerife is located in the same position relative to the equator as the Western Sahara. However, it is not always dry and arid here; this is due to the clouds that remain suspended between the mountains. This makes it much wetter in some places, which explains the great differences on the island. The south is desert-like, where the northeast is green and tropical around the Anaga mountain range. The center of the island is also greener and is largely naturally characterized by El Teide.
During my trip we started with a drive south, mostly on the TF-28. It was a wonderfully meandering road. It’s like a roller coaster. On the left, on the right, a little climb, a little descent, and always that magnificent view of the sea. In the south there is often a lot of wind, which is why the image of windmills is also drawn on the horizon here. This is also the sunniest part of the island because the clouds are blown inland from here. Definitely the highlight of the south was the climb from Poris de Abona to Villa de Arico. Because traffic mostly drives on the main road, you hardly see any cars here. And the asphalt is fantastic!
North Tenerife
The north of the island is much greener, and therefore also a lot cooler. You’ll find beautiful roads here, and the climbs are often surrounded by trees. A highlight to cycle to is the Pico del Ingles, before descending the TF-12 towards San Andrés.
This is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful descents in Europe. Stunning switchbacks, endless vistas, and consistently good visibility of oncoming traffic. This was pure enjoyment. There is also a gem of a descent in the northwest. From San Juan del Reparo to the coastal town of Garachico. If you like taking photos, you will definitely get some amazing shots here. You are constantly looking down into the depths and see the sea and Garachico in the background. I found this descent a delight. Be careful though, because there are some crevasses here and there.
Cycling adventure in Tenerife is El Teide
Okay, then here’s the absolute star of a cycling adventure in Tenerife. And it’s not El Teide. Yes, El Teide of course, but I knew that in advance. But there’s a climb hidden in Tenerife that you’ll talk about for a long time after you’ve climbed it. Mirador de Cherfe from Masca. Only 3.8 kilometers, but with an average gradient of 11.2% and a maximum of 17.6% over 100 meters, this is a beast of a climb. And the views are once again breathtaking. Be sure to bring the Parque Rural de Teno along with you in advance, with stunning views of the cliffs on the west coast.
Local heroes and guides
Knowing the route is pleasant for several reasons. To discover the most beautiful hidden spots, to choose the best restaurants along the way, and to know what awaits you. During my trip, I was very well guided by the charismatic Alberto and Marcos Delgado from Tenerife Bike Training. They organize tours and trips in Tenerife. You can join a specific day, plan a week tour, or book a full trip with accommodation with them.
Cycling adventure in Tenerife
Tenerife is truly a fantastic place to explore by bike, both because of the variety of the surroundings and the beautiful climbs and descents. Book a tour at Tenerife Bike Training If you don’t plan your own rides. Besides racing bikes, you also have plenty of options for exploring the island on a gravel bike. Plenty of reasons to return to this amazing island again soon.
Cycling adventures in Tenerife
Below you will find the most beautiful routes for a cycling adventure in Tenerife. You will find all the highlights of this beautiful island here.
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.