Tenerife, isn't that that island where all those pros go to train at altitude? That's right! Throughout the year, you will find many professional cyclists, triathletes and other top athletes on this largest of a total of 12 Canary Islands. Thanks to its pleasant climate, and because of its ability to train at altitude, Tenerife is a haven for many a cyclist of renown. Names like Lance Armstrong, Chris Froome and Tom Dumoulin are or have been regulars here in preparation for their season. Especially the mountain El Teide will ring a bell with many cycling fans and followers of cycling. But why is Tenerife so popular with cyclists? I found out for you during my Tenerife cycling adventure.
Text and photos: Ruben Hoogland
The journey
There are two ways to travel to Tenerife. By plane, or by ferry. From Schiphol Airport, it is more than a four-hour flight. From the port city of Huelva, Andalusia, the ferry crossing takes about a day and a half. Incidentally, the latter option is not very cheap. Therefore, flying is the most accessible option for a stay in Tenerife. Unfortunately less sustainable, but good.
First impression
When you fly to a destination, the first impression is always very abrupt. You get into an aluminium capsule and as soon as you are allowed out of the plane you enter a completely different world. Unlike when you travel by car to a destination, and thus see the environment gradually change, you are suddenly confronted with a totally new world. I arrive at Tenerife South Airport. Outside it is pleasantly warm, and the airport is nice and clear. I can see the sea, some palm trees here and there, and in the distance the mountains beckon.
Bring your own bike, or rent one
I prefer to take my own bike everywhere I go. After all, it is well adjusted, and I am simply used to it. And also a bit attached to it. If you fly with Transavia, you pay €49.00 per flight for bringing a bike case. For my trip, however, an on-site bike had been arranged via the guys from Bike Point Tenerife. A BMC Roadmachine 02, fitted with Shimano Ultegra and disc brakes. Beforehand, you never know exactly what you will get, so there was some scepticism on my side here. Well, that turned out to be totally unnecessary. The bike ran like a breeze, and was nicely adjusted based on the measurements I had given in advance. So it didn't take very long before I trusted the bike completely and dared to throw myself into the descents. This bike costs at Bike Point Tenerife €22.00 per day.
If you rent a bike on location, I would generally advise you to bring your own saddle and pedals. Even if you have a super bike, you don't know if the saddle is suitable for your ergonomics. And nothing is more annoying than having to abort your adventure early because of seat problems. So bring your own saddle if you know you are prone to this. Bringing your own pedals can also avoid annoyances when engaging. You are used to your own way of clipping in, which is why I always bring my own pedals.
One island, multiple worlds
Tenerife is in the same position relative to the equator as Western Sahara. Yet it is not arid and dry everywhere here, and this is due to the clouds that linger between the mountains here. This makes it much more humid in some places, which explains the great differences on the island. The south is desert-like, whereas the northeast is green and tropical around the Anaga Mountains. The centre of the island is also greener and largely naturally characterised by El Teide.
On my trip, we started by heading south, mostly on the TF-28. A wonderfully rippling road. It's like a rollercoaster. Left, right, bit of climbing, bit of descending and constantly that stunning view of the sea. To the south there is often a lot of wind, which is why the picture on the horizon here is also marked by windmills. This is also the sunniest part of the island because the clouds are blown inland from here. Absolute highlight of the south I found to be the climb from Poris de Abona to Villa de Arico. As the traffic is mostly on the main road, you hardly encounter any cars here. And the tarmac bolts fantastically!
North Tenerife
The north of the island is much greener, and therefore a lot cooler. You will find beautiful roads here and climbs are often shrouded in trees. A highlight to cycle to is the Pico del Ingles, before descending the TF-12 towards San Andrés.
As far as I am concerned, this is one of the most beautiful descents in Europe. Superb switchbacks, endless views and continuous 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 are sure to shoot some insane pictures here. You constantly look into the depths and see the sea and Garachico in the background. I found this descent a treat. Be careful though, as there are some potholes in the road here and there.
Cycling adventure on Tenerife is El Teide
Ok, now for the absolute protagonist of a Tenerife cycling adventure. And it's not El Teide. Yep, El Teide too, of course, but I knew that in advance. But there is a climb hidden in Tenerife that you will be talking about for a long time after you've climbed it. Mirador de Cherfe from Masca. Only 3.8 kilometres, but with an average gradient of 11.2% and a maximum of 17.6% over 100 metres, this is a beast of a climb. And the views are again to make you speechless. Be sure to grab the Parque Rural de Teno beforehand, with stunning views of the rocks on the west coast.
Local heroes and guides
Trail knowledge is nice for several reasons. To discover the best hidden spots, to pick the nicest restaurants along the way and to know what to expect. During my trip, I was very well guided by the charismatic Alberto and Marcos Delgado of Tenerife Bike Training. They organise rides and tours in Tenerife. You can connect to a specific day, plan a weekly tour or book a full trip with overnight stays with them.
Conclusion cycling adventure on Tenerife
Tenerife is really a great place to explore by bike, both because of the variety in the area and the beautiful climbs and descents. Be sure to book a tour at Tenerife Bike Training if you don't plan your own rides. Besides road bikes, you also have plenty of opportunities to explore the island on gravel bikes. Enough reasons to return to this crazy island soon.
Routes cycling adventure Tenerife
Below are the best routes for a cycling adventure on Tenerife. All the highlights of this beautiful island can be found here.
