La Laguna’s historic core draws visitors with its colonial architecture and lively plazas, but the surrounding landscapes hold a different kind of magic. Tenerife’s northern corridor is a world of misty forests, volcanic ridges, and dramatic coastlines that feel far removed from the island’s crowded southern resorts. Because the city sits at a higher elevation, it serves as a gateway to some of the most biodiverse and visually striking natural spaces in the Canary Islands.
Many travelers use La Laguna as a base for cultural sightseeing without realizing how quickly the terrain changes once you leave the urban grid. Within twenty minutes by car, you can move from UNESCO-listed streets into cloud forests draped in moss or descend toward black-sand beaches battered by Atlantic swells. The contrast is part of what makes this corner of Tenerife so rewarding for hikers, photographers, and families.
The climate here differs significantly from the sunny south. Cooler temperatures, higher humidity, and frequent cloud cover create lush conditions that support endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth. Packing a light rain jacket and sturdy shoes is essential, even on days that start clear. Weather can shift rapidly as you gain or lose elevation, and trails often remain damp under the forest canopy.
The natural areas near La Laguna also offer a quieter, more local experience than Tenerife’s headline attractions. You are more likely to share a viewpoint with a few hikers and birdwatchers than with tour buses. Many of these spaces are free to enter, well maintained, and connected by a network of marked paths that suit different fitness levels.
Access is easiest with a rental car, but several sites are reachable by public bus from La Laguna’s intercambiador. If you are planning multiple excursions, consider starting early in the morning. The forests are often clearest before midday, and popular parking areas fill quickly on weekends and public holidays.
This guide focuses on natural areas within a reasonable drive of La Laguna, prioritizing places that offer genuine ecological interest, scenic variety, and practical access. You will find a mix of protected parks, coastal reserves, and lesser-known viewpoints that reward slow exploration. Each location is selected for its ability to show a different side of Tenerife’s northern landscape.
Use the list below as a starting point for planning day trips, short walks, or longer hikes. The entries are arranged to help you combine nearby destinations efficiently, but every place can also stand alone as a half-day outing.
Anaga Rural Park
| Address | Monte de Las Mercedes, TF-12, Km 6, 38294 La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
A really nice, humid walk through the forest in the clouds. The whole area of Parque Rural de Anaga feels almost otherworldly — mist hanging between the trees, lush green vegetation everywhere, and constantly changing visibility as the clouds move through the mountains.
It’s a peaceful and refreshing experience, but also a bit surreal at times, like walking through a living, breathing cloud forest. The trails are well marked and there’s a great sense of being completely surrounded by nature.
Definitely one of those walks you don’t forget easily — calm, atmospheric, and very different from the coastal parts of Tenerife.
I joined a group with a guide who made it an excellent day out; a fairy tale tour through laurel forest on the edge of the rain forest.
I am glad I booked with a guide as I would have absolutely got lost on my own. Our hike was for 3.5 hours and it was stunning; beautiful walks and beautiful views. The weather was great and I wore a t- shirt and hiking pants which was perfect for the day in April. Definitly need good walking shoes and wet weather gear just in case.
Parque Rural de Anaga is an incredible place for hiking, with multiple well‑marked trails starting right from this area. The scenery is lush, green, and truly unique, making it one of the most beautiful parts of Tenerife.
The parking lot itself is quite small, but the number of visitors is high, especially during peak hours. It’s definitely worth arriving early to secure a spot and start your hike before the crowds. This area serves as the main starting point for several popular routes, so good timing makes a big difference.
A must‑visit for anyone who enjoys nature and hiking.
A full immersion in nature. The effort is definitely worth it!
– For everyone who uses trekking apps: internet coverage is often completely absent.
– Good old trekking without tech.
Gorgeous on a dry sunny day.
The mature gentleman at the Visitors Center was very helpful in helping us select the right trail.
He was also quite jovial and welcoming 🙂 and provided good ideas for other viewpoints and towns to visit in the park after our hike.
Be sure to get the trail map from him.
We hiked the Enigma trail (red markers), approximately 5km and about an hour to complete.
The rains the previous days had made the trail slippery in certain parts, but no issues if you’re paying attention.
The incline/stairs in parts can be steep but eminently doable at your pace.
Be sure to dress in layers as you can be cold at the beginning and then hot when you’re going up the steep incline/stairs.
Parking was already a zoo by 10am. Come early.
Corona Forestal Natural Park
| Address | Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Beautifull national park. Definitely worth a visit. Will take you a whole day or more if you want to see it all. Especially nice in the winter when there's snow on El Teide.
Amazing sunset location, see the sun setting into the clouds from above. The perfect place to finish a day after hiking in the Teide National Park. I can really recommend it to stop by and enjoy the magic moment. A memory that I will not forget!
Warmth, the smell of pine trees, beautiful sunsets. One of my favorite places to drive
Beautiful panorama and clouds 👌
Amazing journey getting there, we travelled from South to North over the clouds! Don’t miss out on the observatory
Reserva Natural de la Laguna de Fuente de Piedra
| Address | Unnamed Road, 29520 Fuente de Piedra, Málaga |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 675 64 59 57 |
Nice place to have a walk. Unfortunately, most of views to the lake are blocked by vegetation. No birds to be seen. Only the short boardwalk/woodbridge and the first pond on the left when driving in, offers close views. Bird hide requires over 4 km walk. There and back.
A nice place to visit if in the area, a lot of flamingos in the lake. I would say it's not worth a separate trip, but stop if you're passing by.
Wonderful place to see birds, not just flamingo. Yes you need binoculars for some but lots of water birds close up. The smaller lake near car park had lots of flamingos but there were thousands in the larger one, some far away. Visitor centre shut so no access to toilets.
Among the birds we saw were goldfinch, warblers, pied avocets, black winged stilt, yellow wagtails and a stork.
Definitely worth the visit.
It was great to see flamingos in their natural habitat but the walks are poorly described ( there are no maps) the visitor centre seems to shut Monday and Tuesday but there were no opening hours displayed, and no information on the web site. The setting is a bit industrial as well.
Very beautiful national park! The visitor centre has varying opening hours. When we arrived the visitor centre was closed, but we could still enter the grounds. We did not see any flamingos, because they were really far away due to the dryness of the lake.
Mirador Aguaide
| Address | 38294 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Quite the impressive view! The hike to the Mirador (viewpoint) is about 7-10 minutes long. The viewpoint is no longer fully open, the section closest to the cliff is now closed due to danger of falling cliff. The hike to Mirador is nice view of countryside, with some local agriculture. The drive to the trailhead is also very pleasant and plenty to see
Fantastic hike, lovely views of the valley the gorges, the Atlantic, the cactus, the canary lizards everything. The route leading to the point is well maintained and easy to hike. Carry comfortable shoes lots of water as the sun. The drive to Chinmada village is pittoresque but through very curvy mountain roads.
Amazing hike! Very easy, yet worthy to do! Absolutely recommend!
The view is amazing and the hike was easy and took us about 10 minutes.
Beautiful outlook to the sea. It's a bit hard to find but keep walking toward a white house as they are expecting you for dinner then hang a right and walk a litter further. The trail isn't well marked either.
Information Centre Natural Park Ruidera
| Address | Ctra. Badajoz Valencia, 8, 13249 Ruidera, Cdad. Real |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | 926 52 81 16 |
Perfect for picnic and a bit different southern part of Spain. Tend to be crowded during the sunny days, take your time looking for an ideal spot. Totally pay's back.
Wonderful place to.spend weekend with kids or without. Natural lakes where you can swim. Renting facilities for paddle surf and canoo available.
Absolutely stunning natural park. Beautiful clear blue water. Ideal spot for dog walking, fishing, kayaking.
Stunning scenery, great for anyone that's into walking and cycling. Had a real taste of Autumn
Very pretty, fun and great for a hot summer day
Reserva Natural de la Laguna del Marquesado
| Address | CM-2106, 20, 16316 Laguna del Marquesado, Cuenca |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 969 17 83 00 |
A beautiful lagoon complex, designated a Nature Reserve since 2004. Located next to the town of Laguna del Marquesado, this 372-hectare lagoon is an important area inhabited by a large number of animal and plant species. This wetland shares its formation with the Ruidera Lakes in Albacete, as they are both formed by a tufa barrier. The lagoon can be visited by walking along part of its perimeter on paths located around its circumference. Being just a few kilometers from the town of Laguna del Marquesado, it is an easily accessible and attractive destination for curious visitors and nature lovers.
Circular route, special mention to the boxwood groves (Buxus sempervirens) that imbue the route with a unique smell. We started the route from the lower part of the village instead of by the road and returned by it, so we were able to see the waterfalls and the river.
The trail is very poorly marked. Difficult to follow and very poorly maintained. There were many points where you didn't know where to go. I think they should really redo the signage and improve its upkeep.
Zona muy bonita para senderismo alrededor de la laguna.
Located near the small town of the same name in Cuenca, it is perhaps a little-known natural area that deserves a visit.
Mirador Cruz del Carmen
| Address | 38294 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Finally made it up the winding road to about 920 metres above sea level. You really feel like you’re inside the clouds here — sometimes you literally have to wait for them to pass just to get a clear photo.
The atmosphere is incredible, very green, misty and peaceful, completely different from the coast. It does get quite busy at times, but it’s all part of the experience.
Next up for us was a walk along one of the forest trails — can’t wait to explore it properly. A great gateway into the Anaga mountains.
Wow! This is and outstanding point of view, you should definitely not miss it! Is not fitting too many cars so best to be here early in the morning. The road is perfectly lined but with lots of curves and for someone not used to this kind of trip be prepared with some pills for nausea. Great drive! I highly recommend!
The small arch( or whatever it is) adds a lot to the view. Also from here you can go on a small hike to the forest, that is also worth visiting.
definitely come when it's sunny. the road is slippery when it rains. hiking boots are a must
A magical place from another world! A must-visit!
I don't even have the words to describe the Anaga forest—it feels like stepping millions of years back in time. We visited the Mirador de Cruz del Carmen and walked the "Path of the Senses" (Sendero de los Sentidos). The view from the viewpoint is absolutely incredible, and walking through the misty, mossy laurel forest is an unforgettable experience. It is very accessible and absolutely perfect for families with kids.
A few highly important practical tips for future visitors:
The Road: The drive up is a typical mountain road—perfectly paved but full of sharp, endless turns. If anyone in your group (or the kids) gets motion sickness, make sure to pack some barf bags just in case. But trust me, even then, it is worth every single second!
Parking & Trash: The parking lot right by the visitor center is completely free. However, keep in mind that there are no trash cans anywhere—not along the trail, and not even in the parking lot. Be sure to bring a plastic bag with you to collect all your waste so we can keep this beautiful, pristine nature perfectly clean.
The Weather: Even if it feels like a hot summer day down by the beach, the weather up in the forest changes in seconds. It gets chilly, damp, and thick fog can roll in out of nowhere—be sure to bring a jacket or a hoodie.
We absolutely fell in love with this place! Don't miss it!
Sendero Hija Cambada
| Address | TF-12, 205, 38294 La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Relaxed walk without requiring too much physical prep
Can be bit boring at times. We did q walk number 5,4,3 and the rest walked back by the road as half was enough to get "the feel ". Nonetheless recommend 🙂 adding route track in the photos
Super relaxing path… no much sun, temperatur lower than outside
Full recomendation:)
Absolutely amazing place. Not too hot even in the sunniest days.
No view at all and the hike takes 2 hours.
Beautiful forest walk.
Parque Rural de Teno
| Address | 38489 Buenavista del Norte, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 922 44 79 70 |
One of my favourite places of the island. U get there and suddenly u feel so lucky to be able to see the authenticity of the place!Even the sun, shine differently and the air and the vibe are amazing.
Excellent roads will take you to many convenient observation locations. Great place for photographs or even a little hiking if you that takes your fancy. You get a great view of Mount Teide, the 3rd highest Volcano in the world.
I have to repeat myself over and over, Tenerife is paradise for hikers. All the treks are so beautiful, ofer so many varieties, amazing views and panoramas.
Beautiful park with amazing views of the water and Teide, on the days it’s not foggy it’s nice for hiking and just passing through by car.
Great viewing and hiking area which allows you to reach remote beaches, peaks and lonely villages around Buenavista del Norte.
Alcalde Pedro González's Park (Parque de La Vega)
| Address | 38201, C. Concepcion Salazar, 11, 38208 La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Never crowded, clean, many birds, beautiful flowers and trees. The kids always enjoy looking at the fish that swim in the little river that crosses the park.
This is an excellent park with loads of different facilities. How many parks have a BMX track, a climbing wall/tower, five a side/basketball court and a skate park?
It only gets 4 stars from me as there used to be a cafe that is now boarded up, which is both a shame and a massive eyesore, maybe the council will sort it out
Excellent park for children. There's a playground right in the center with a large variety of equipment, lots of benches in the shade, and the alleys are very well paved and great for children learning to ride a bycicle. There are also sports facilities such as a small football court, ping pong tables, and a tall climbing wall.
A small park with a climbing wall and a bike trail. Good place for a walk, has also attractions for kids. Clean and lively.
Great place to be with children, has fish in the pond as well and birds, even parrots may appear sometimes
Mirador De Jardina
| Address | Spain, TF-12, 219, 38294 La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
An excellent viewpoint. The views are among the best in Anaga and it’s definitely worth visiting. The views are even better than at the main Carmen viewpoint of the national park.
It’s basically a roadside stop with parking for a few cars. The viewpoint itself is flat, paved, and surrounded by railings. There’s often a vendor selling snacks.
Great view from the north east looking into the center of the inland with views stretching all the way to Mt Teide.
Swing by Mirador de Jardina and you’ll find more than just a view – you’ll find the heart of Tenerife! Perched on a little slice of heaven, this viewpoint gives you a front-row seat to nature’s grandeur. It’s the perfect spot to snap photos, soak in the vibes of La Laguna, and let your eyes feast on the lush landscapes and rolling clouds. Whether you’re a sunrise seeker or a sunset chaser, Mirador de Jardina delivers the goods with a panorama that's pure gold. Don't miss this spot – it’s a high point, literally and figuratively!
Gorgeous views. There are couple merchants selling produce sometimes. There's some parking
Great views, lovely drive up and gets much cooler as you go up
Lagunas de Ruidera (Chorro de las Minas)
| Address | Chorro de la Minas, 17, Cam. Baño de las Mulas, 34, 02611 Ossa de Montiel, Albacete |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Beautiful places to walk around all the lakes and waterfalls around
A very beautiful place to rest! It is very quiet and the lagoon color is beautiful. I recommend renting a kayak or paddleboard. Is there a loss of caves and lagoons to explore. I also recommend coming in spring because in summer it can reach up to 40° C in summer and 15° C in winter.
Perfect spot to enjoy a summer day in the middle of Spain.
We rented kayak and had fun. I recommend to friends and family!
What a beautiful part of Spain. It gets very busy at weekends..... The scenery is spectacular and there are some great scenic walks around the lakes.
Gorgeous oasis in the middle of La Mancha. It must be considered as one of the greatest wonders of Spain due to its orographic features. Besides, you can enjoy plenty of water sports such as kayaking, swimming, paddle surf and so on. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone!!
Tips for visiting the natural areas near La Laguna
A little preparation goes a long way in northern Tenerife, where microclimates and terrain can surprise even experienced hikers. The following recommendations are based on local conditions and common visitor questions, and they will help you stay comfortable while respecting the fragile environments you have come to enjoy.
Check the webcam and cloud forecast before heading into the Anaga or Monte de La Esperanza areas. The north shore can be sunny while the ridges are completely socked in, and the reverse is also true. Drive with extra care on narrow forest roads, especially after rain, when loose stones and wet leaves reduce traction. Wear layered clothing and proper footwear, because trails often cross exposed ridgelines before dropping into humid ravines. Carry more water than you think you need, since fountains are rare outside the villages. Finally, follow leave-no-trace principles strictly: these laurel forests and volcanic slopes are protected for good reason, and even fruit peels take a long time to decompose in this environment.
The natural spaces around La Laguna are not just scenic backdrops; they are living systems that have shaped local culture, agriculture, and identity for centuries. Walking through them with a bit of knowledge makes the experience richer and more respectful. Whether you spend an hour at a coastal viewpoint or a full day crossing a forested massif, the landscape tends to leave a lasting impression. Plan your route, watch the sky, and let the north of Tenerife reveal itself at its own pace.
