The north coast of Tenerife, between cliffs, beaches and trails

A wild and rocky coast

     The north of Tenerife offers a more authentic face than the south of the island. Here the coast is shaped by steep cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic, spectacular volcanic formations and breathtaking panoramas. It is a region that seduces with its relief and preserved atmosphere.

Beaches with natural charm

      Although the north coast is not known for its extensive tourist beaches, it is home to several coves and black sand beaches, often surrounded by cliffs. The closest beach to Un Jardin al Mar is San Marcos in Icod de los Vinos (about 10 minutes by car).

A little further away (25 to 30 km), in Puerto de la Cruz, several natural beaches are worth visiting, including:

• Playa del Bollullo, accessible on foot by a path among the banana trees, is one of the most beautiful wild beaches of the island.

• Playa del Socorro, on the other side of Puerto (in Los Realejos), is a well-known area of surf.

• Playa de las Teresitas (near Santa Cruz) is an exception with its golden sand imported from the Sahara. It is equipped, protected from the waves and very popular with families (and very busy in summer!)

The "charcos", natural jewels of the rocky coast

Charcos are natural pools formed by lava and waves.

On the north coast, several charcos (such as those of La Laja, El Pris, Bajamar, los Silos or, closer to Un Jardin al Mar, those of El Caleton in Garachico) allow you to swim in a unique setting, provided that the sea is calm. (See the dedicated article.)

Lighthouses from the end of the world and coastal trails to reconnect with nature

The north coast of Tenerife offers superb panoramas, between isolated lighthouses and coastal paths. The modern lighthouse of Punta del Hidalgo, to the east, watches over a wild area popular with hikers (Anaga massif), while that of Buenavista del Norte, to the west, dominates an impressive volcanic landscape.

Among the walks not to be missed:

• The path of San Juan de la Rambla, quiet and panoramic, runs along the cliffs.

• The barranco de Ruiz crosses a green ravine between sea and mountain.

• The El Jagre trail, in La Matanza, offers a peaceful walk over the ocean.

. Rambla de Castro: this route connects Los Realejos to the beach of Castro, in the heart of a lush landscape with palm trees, fig trees, banana plantations and historical remains. Discover the Casa de Castro, an elegant 18th-century residence, as well as the remains of an old aqueduct and water mill. The walk ends in a pretty volcanic cove.

And also...

• The coastal villages such as El Pris, Punta del Hidalgo, San Andrés or of course Garachico (see the dedicated article) are worth a stop for their typical atmosphere, their terraces by the sea and their historical heritage.

• The viewpoints, such as that of San Pedro (overlooking the Rambla de Castro) or that of the Garañona (in El Sauzal), allow you to appreciate all the wild beauty of the coast from the heights.

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