Tenerife
Tenerife is a dream destination for serious road cyclists. Sitting in the heart of the Canary Islands, this volcanic island rises steeply from the Atlantic Ocean, offering long, steady climbs and jaw-dropping views at every turn. The landscapes shift dramatically as you ride, from banana plantations along the coast to lunar-like lava fields high up on Mount Teide. It’s a place where the scenery constantly changes, but the challenge stays the same: up.
The weather is another reason cyclists love Tenerife. With mild temperatures year-round and little rain, it’s possible to ride in short sleeves even in the middle of winter. That’s why so many riders, especially from colder parts of Europe, come here to train when their roads are frozen. The reliable sunshine and dry conditions make it feel like summer all year long.
El Teide, the island’s massive volcano, is the star attraction. At over 3,700 meters, it’s the highest point in Spain. The climb to the Teide plateau is one of the longest and most consistent ascents in Europe, drawing pro teams like INEOS Grenadiers and Jumbo-Visma for high-altitude training camps. You’ll often see team cars and riders in full kit grinding up its slopes as part of their Grand Tour prep.
This is not a beginner’s playground. Tenerife is all about climbing. Most routes involve thousands of meters of elevation gain, and flat roads are almost non-existent. You’ll need good legs and solid gearing, but the effort pays off in quiet roads, smooth tarmac, and some of the most rewarding views you’ll ever see from a bike.
Despite its challenges, Tenerife has a welcoming cycling culture. Riders from all over the world gather here, and the local infrastructure is built to support them. Whether you're chasing fitness, altitude, or just epic days in the saddle, Tenerife delivers an unforgettable ride every time.
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Best time to ride
The best time to visit this destination depends on various factors including weather conditions, temperature ranges, and seasonal cycling conditions. Understanding the climate patterns throughout the year will help you plan your perfect cycling trip. Each month offers different advantages and challenges for cyclists looking to explore this beautiful region.
Where to stay
Base Towns
El Médano
It’s a great choice if you’re after a quieter, more laid-back base, especially if you want to stick to coastal roads and steer clear of the busiest tourist spots. You’ll still have solid access to El Teide from here. This small town on the southeast coast is also known as Tenerife’s windsurfing and kiteboarding hub, thanks to the steady easterly trade winds.
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Accommodations (11)
Places in Tenerife that welcome you and your bike.
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How to get there
- By plane: There are two airport on Tenerife, Tenerife South (TFS, Reina Sofía) and Tenerife North (TFN, Los Rodeos). Which one you land at depends on where you're coming from. To get around, renting a car is usually your best bet. But if you're staying near the airport and picking up a rental bike, you might be fine without one.
- By ferry: There are regular ferry connections from the other Canary Islands. Ferries from the western islands arrive in Los Cristianos on the southwest coast. Those coming from the eastern islands dock in Santa Cruz.
Bike Rentals (9)
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Shops (7)
Cafes & bars (14)
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Popular Climbs (10)
Cycling Routes (13)
Teide XL from la Laguna
170.8km | 3472m
Leaving from La Laguna puts you on the climb right from the start. After around 40 kilometers, you’ll reach El Portillo, with only a short stretch of climbing left near the top of El Teide. From there, descend through Vilaflor and ride about 80 kilometers parallel to the coast on scenic, winding roads.
Bailadero - Anaga Mountains
52.6km | 1250m
This route serves up spectacular views all the way up the Anaga Mountains and at the top. Along the way, you’ll hit two stunning viewpoints: Bailadero and Pico del Inglés. You can start this ride from either Santa Cruz or La Laguna.
Los Gigantes to Punta de Teno Lighthouse
94.7km | 2845m
This route brings big climbs and some of the best views of the island. Roll out from Los Gigantes and climb up to Erjos. From there, a beautiful descent to the coast is waiting. Ride toward Buenavista del Norte, and if you’re feeling strong, keep going to the Punta de Teno Lighthouse at the island’s western tip. From the coast, a winding climb takes you up to Mirador Altos de Baracán, then on to Masca and Mirador de Cherfe.
Loop du France
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Loop du France
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Loop du France
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Map of Tenerife - 52 pins
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Reviews
Write a review Write a reviewExperiences from riders who have been here
Tenerife clearly has a "resort" part to it. But if you are able to stay away from that (small) part of the island, this is a cycling must.
Obviously there is el Teide, with the famous hotel on top. We crossed a whole bunch of yellow Jumbo riders in February. A humbling experience as they go down and up again when you're just happy you've conquered it once. Top often above the clouds and with views of the other islands.
The best piece is the diversity with the south being dry and hot and the north as if you're cycling in the Amazon forest.
(Hidden?) gem is definitely Masca - both in terms of landscape and in terms of steepness.