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Discover the hidden Canary Islands: Routes to the heart of the archipelago’s natural wonders

Explore the hidden routes and trails of the Canary Islands, where breathtaking landscapes and rich history await beyond the popular tourist spots.

The Canary Islands, home to 146 protected natural areas, offer an abundance of trails and scenic routes through some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the Atlantic. This unique archipelago boasts five UNESCO Biosphere Reserves across the islands of La Palma, Lanzarote, El Hierro, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria. These routes reveal hidden gems in each island’s stunning scenery, historical sites, and diverse ecosystems.


Tenerife: Beyond Teide National Park

Discover the hidden Canary Islands: Routes to the heart of the archipelago’s natural wonders

While Teide National Park is the most renowned landmark on Tenerife, the lesser-known trails in the Anaga mountain range are just as breathtaking. The paths lead visitors through ancient villages, terraced fields, and the lush fayal-brezal forests. One such trail is the Camino Real del Sur, connecting Güímar to Fasnia. This historical route, once vital for island residents centuries ago, offers a rich blend of natural and cultural beauty.

Gran Canaria: Hidden Trails Through Protected Landscapes

Gran Canaria, with 33 protected areas, is a paradise for nature lovers. Popular spots include the Maspalomas Dunes and Tamadaba Natural Park, but the hidden paths around Fataga are especially intriguing. Walking through the Protected Landscape of Fataga, visitors can explore the whitewashed village of Fataga, with roots tracing back to pre-conquest times, surrounded by palm groves and rugged cliffs.

Lanzarote: Trails Through Timanfaya and Beyond

Known for its volcanic landscape, Lanzarote features 13 protected sites, including the Timanfaya National Park. A favourite among locals is the Guinate Route, beginning in Ye, Haría, and passing through the Corona Volcano. This circular trail offers views of the unique volcanic formations and tunnels created by lava flows, making for a challenging yet rewarding hike.

Fuerteventura: Rugged Beauty and Volcanic Paths

Fuerteventura, with its 13 natural monuments, showcases the island’s stark volcanic beauty. A lesser-known path leads through Los Cuchillos de Vigán, an area marked by rocky islets created by ancient lava flows. This challenging route near the Malpaís Grande showcases unique geological formations, perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure in a raw, natural landscape.

La Gomera: Mystical Forests and Coastal Valleys

The lush island of La Gomera is home to the UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park, a laurel forest steeped in legend. The island’s trails extend beyond the park, with routes leading to Gran Rey Valley. This scenic hike descends to the coast through small villages, offering views of traditional Canarian architecture and verdant landscapes.

La Palma: Exploring the ‘Isla Bonita’

Known as the “Beautiful Island,” La Palma offers some of the archipelago’s most stunning hiking routes. While the Caldera de Taburiente National Park is a favourite, the lesser-traveled paths around Santa Cruz de La Palma provide a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. The historic alleys behind Tazacorte’s church reveal the lives of settlers from the sugarcane era, making these routes a perfect blend of history and nature.

El Hierro: Enchanted Trails and Volcanic Monuments

El Hierro, with its unique ecosystems and seven protected areas, offers some of the most enchanting routes in the Canaries. Notable among them is the Llanía Trail, which winds through the mystical fayal-brezal forests in the Frontera Rural Park. These routes, with natural rock formations like the Roques de Salmor, showcase El Hierro’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, ideal for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.

The Canary Islands’ hidden trails offer diverse experiences, from volcanic landscapes to historical paths, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. For those who venture beyond the well-trodden routes, the islands reveal a world of enchanting forests, ancient villages, and rugged coastlines waiting to be explored.


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