Top 10 Scenic Drives in Tenerife You Must Experience
Descubre the most breathtaking roads in Tenerife, from the volcanic landscapes of El Teide to the lush Anaga mountains. Perfect routes for your rental car adventure.
Maria Santos
Local travel expert born and raised in Tenerife. Maria has spent over 15 years sharing the island's hidden gems with visitors from around the world.
Descubre the most breathtaking roads in Tenerife, from the volcanic landscapes of El Teide to the lush Anaga mountains. Perfect routes for your rental car adventure.
Tenerife is a paradise for road trips. With its dramatic volcanic terrain, winding mountain passes, and coastal panoramas, the island offers some of Europe's most spectacular drives. Whether you're cruising along the coast or ascending to the summit of Spain's highest peak, every turn reveals a new breathtaking vista.
1. TF-21: The Road to El Teide
The crown jewel of Tenerife's driving routes, the TF-21 takes you from La Orotava up through pine forests and into the otherworldly landscape of Las Cañadas del Teide. As you climb above the cloud line, the terrain transforms from lush greenery to volcanic moonscape. Stop at Mirador de la Ruleta for panoramic views that stretch across the entire island. The road reaches over 2,000 metres elevation, and on clear days you can see neighbouring islands of La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro.
2. TF-12: Anaga Rural Park
This winding road through the ancient laurel forests of Anaga is not for the faint-hearted. Narrow switchbacks cut through misty cloud forests that feel like something from a fantasy novel. Start at Cruz del Carmen visitor centre and drive through to Taganana, a remote village perched above the Atlantic. The road passes through tunnels carved into the mountainside and offers glimpses of secluded beaches far below. Allow at least three hours to fully appreciate this route, stopping at the numerous miradores along the way.
3. TF-28: The Western Coastal Road
Stretching from Los Gigantes to Punta de Teno, this coastal route hugs dramatic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean. The road passes through the charming town of Buenavista del Norte before reaching the lighthouse at Punta de Teno, the island's westernmost point. The contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the deep blue ocean is simply stunning. This area is less touristic, giving you a taste of authentic Tenerife.
