Anaga Rural Park: Walking Through Europe's Best Laurisilva Forest

Anaga Rural Park is the green, misty crown of north-east Tenerife. Millions of years older than the rest of the island, the Anaga massif is a protected area of jagged peaks, deep ravines and ancient laurisilva forest — a relic of the subtropical woods that once covered much of Europe.

Why Anaga is special

The laurisilva, or laurel forest, is a living fossil. It survives in only a few pockets of Macaronesia and needs constant humidity to thrive. Walking through Anaga under a canopy of laurel, heather and lichen feels like stepping back in time.

The best hikes

Sendero de los Sentidos

A gentle, magical trail through the heart of the forest. Perfect for first-time visitors and families, it takes about 1.5 hours and is almost flat.

Cruz del Carmen to Pico del Inglés

A moderate walk starting at the Cruz del Carmen visitor centre, with spectacular views over the ravines and the ocean.

Chamorga to Roque Bermejo

A longer, more challenging hike that descends to a tiny coastal village where you can swim before climbing back up.

Sendero de los Cuchillos

A more demanding ridge trail with dramatic drops on either side — for confident hikers only.

Best viewpoints

• Mirador de Cruz del Carmen — the classic first stop, often above the clouds.
• Mirador de Pico del Inglés — dramatic views into the Anaga ravines.
• Mirador de Jardina — a great panorama of the north coast and the sea of clouds.

How to get there

Anaga is about 30 minutes by car from Santa Cruz. The TF-12 road crosses the park from south to north. Roads are narrow and winding, so drive carefully. There is no regular public transport deep into the park, so a car or a booked tour is best.

When to go

The forest is at its most magical early in the morning, when mist clings to the trees. Clouds often clear by midday, revealing views down to the coast. Avoid the hottest part of summer; spring and autumn are ideal.

What to bring

• Sturdy walking shoes — trails can be muddy and rooty.
• A light rain jacket — the forest is humid and showers are common.
• Water and snacks — there are few facilities inside the park.
• A charged phone, ideally with an offline map of the trails.

Anaga is the soul of green Tenerife — a place that completely changes how you see the island.