Hotels near Anaga Rural Park

Anaga Rural Park occupies the rugged northeastern tip of Tenerife, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protecting one of the largest surviving laurel forests (laurisilva) in the world. These forests are a relic of the subtropical woodlands that covered southern Europe millions of years ago. The park's landscape is all sharp ridges, deep ravines, and peaks wrapped in cloud - a complete contrast to the dry south coast just an hour's drive away.

Cruz del Carmen (944 m) is the main trailhead and visitor centre, reachable by car or TITSA bus 076 from La Laguna. From here, the Sendero de los Sentidos (Trail of the Senses) is a short, accessible loop through moss-draped laurel trees - perfect for families. More serious hikers can take the trail from Cruz del Carmen down to the isolated beach hamlet of Taganana (roughly 2.5 hours one way), passing through dense forest and emerging above terraced hillside farms. Punta del Hidalgo on the north coast is another popular starting point for coastal walks.

Pro Tip: The cloud forest is most atmospheric in the morning when mist hangs in the canopy. Bring waterproof layers - even on days when Santa Cruz is clear and 25 C, Anaga can be cool and damp. Stop at a guachinche (informal family restaurant) in Taganana on the way down for home-cooked Canarian food at local prices.