Barranco de Masca

If you fancy a real adventure in Tenerife, one of those that you won't easily forget, the Barranco de Masca is the place for you. This route is one of the most spectacular and famous on the island, both for the beauty of the landscape and the epic nature of the route.

It all starts in the village of Masca, a film-like hamlet nestled high in the Teno Mountains. Just getting there is an experience in itself: hairpin bends, cliffs and breathtaking views. From there, the path goes down a deep, wild ravine that looks like something out of Jurassic Park. Giant rocks, vertical walls, wild vegetation and a silence that impresses.

The route is about 4.5 km downhill (and another 4.5 km if you decide to go up again), and it's not a walk: you have to climb a bit, cross narrow areas, and watch your step. But that's what makes the experience so unique. You really feel like you're in the wilderness, cut off from the world, walking between huge rock walls that make you feel very, very small.

And the best thing: at the end of the trail, after about 3 hours of descent, you reach a hidden cove facing the ocean. The contrast between the closed canyon and the open sea is brutal. It used to be possible to return by boat to Los Gigantes from there, but now the route is a round trip on foot.

To do it, you must book online in advance (access is controlled), and you should bring suitable footwear, water, food and a bit of fitness, because the climb back up is no mean feat.