Cruz del Carmen - Punta de Hidalgo

The Cruz del Carmen – Punta del Hidalgo Trail (PR-TF10) is one of the most comprehensive and transformative hikes you can take in Tenerife. It begins at an altitude of approximately 920 meters, at the Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint, surrounded by the lush laurel forest of Anaga Rural Park. From there, the path descends through mist, moss, and ancient trees that create an almost magical atmosphere.

The trail passes through traditional hamlets such as Las Carboneras and Chinamada, where dwellings carved into the rock and terraced crops suspended over the cliffs are still preserved. These hamlets, far from mass tourism, show what rural life was like in Anaga more than a century ago. The hospitality of the few residents who still live there is part of the experience.

Further on, the trail crosses arid areas with scrubland and cacti, opening the way to breathtaking views of the Atlantic. From Chinamada, you can take a short detour to the viewpoint of the same name, with views of vertical cliffs that drop directly into the sea. The final descent to Punta del Hidalgo is intense but rewarded with a complete change of scenery: from mist to sun, from deep green to navy blue.

In total, the route is about 11–12 km, with steep sections. It requires good physical fitness, appropriate footwear, and water, especially if you're hiking downhill (from the mountains to the coast). Upon reaching Punta del Hidalgo, you can cool off in the natural pools or take a bus back to La Laguna.

This trail is a journey through the island's geography, climate, and culture condensed into a few hours. A hike that encapsulates all the richness of Tenerife: cloud forest, rural tradition, volcanic geology, and the sea.