Guide
Punta de Teno and Masca: how access works now
The Teno massif, at the far north-west, is the most spectacular thing within a long hour of the house. It is also the area with the strictest access rules on the island, and most older guides get them wrong.
Punta de Teno
It is worth it even if it sounds like paperwork: a lighthouse, the Los Gigantes cliffs beyond, and arguably Tenerife's finest sunset. The road can also close for works or weather warnings, so check the council's site on the day.
Masca: the hamlet and the ravine are two different plans
Going to see Masca — the hamlet clinging to the massif, the hairpin road, the viewpoint — is a half-morning plan, with the caveat that parking is very limited and vehicle access is regulated. Walking down the ravine is an entirely different proposition.
Five kilometres of descent, about four hours, hard grade, and a compulsory boat back with a separate ticket. There is advance booking with time slots, access control and required kit, helmet included. If you want to do it, plan it before you travel: this is not a trail you simply turn up to.
Finca Julia is a few minutes from all of this.
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