MTB Route in the southern slope of Tenerife

Cycle to the Izaña Observatory

Ascents and descents mark this route which starts in La Esperanza, in El Rosario, a municipality situated in the southern face of the extreme north along the backbone of Tenerife. After a short stretch of road, continue along the forest track of Los Ovejeros, a continuous climb to Las Laguneras, the last chance to have something to eat on this route. A well-surfaced steep path, with its bird’s eye view of the Güimar valley, leads to the next mountain pass, the Izaña Observatory, at an altitude of 2,300 metres and a 38 kilometre road cycle.

Descend along a 25 kilometre track

At 2,300 kilometres above sea level begins the climb which leads to the very Circo de Las Cañadas. Then there is a very fast descent along a 25 kilometre track, among landscapes of black volcanic sand and the white broom shrubs of el Teide, undoubtedly ideal for speed enthusiasts. This stretch delights with its stunning views, rivers of red lava, Canarian pine forests, and with a bit of luck a sea of clouds. Quite an extravaganza which encourages the cyclist to get to the end of the route in Villa de Arico where a delicious meal awaits.

On to the Río ravine

Instead of going down by the recreational area of El Contador, the more daring cyclist can continue in a southeast direction towards the Río ravine. Crossing it means carrying the bike and going down a path to its riverbed, with its permanent flow of water, to then go up the opposite side and take the path leading to the hamlet of Las Vegas.