Anaga: Where nature meets tradition

Discover Anaga: the greenest and wildest side of Tenerife

When people think of Tenerife, they often imagine golden beaches, the towering Mount Teide, or the bustling tourist towns in the south. But if you truly want to discover the island’s green heart, you must venture into the Anaga Rural Park, a place where nature unfolds in all its glory and history seems to be etched into every rock, tree, and trail.

The charm of the Anaga Rural Park

Anaga, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2015, is a region that spans a vast expanse of mountains, ravines, and cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea. Its peaks, often shrouded in a blanket of clouds, hide some of the island’s most impressive and well-preserved landscapes. Here, the laurel forest—a type of subtropical forest that is a true relic from the Tertiary era—covers the slopes, creating an almost magical atmosphere that transports you to another time.

Tip for adventurers: If you’re a hiking enthusiast, Anaga is a true paradise. The network of trails is extensive and offers routes for all levels. From gentle walks through lush forests to more challenging paths that take you along narrow trails bordering cliffs with breathtaking views of the ocean.

Recommended route: One of the most popular trails is the one that leads from Cruz del Carmen to the small village of Afur. This hike will take you through different ecosystems, from dense laurel forests to the arid ravines that descend to the coast. And if you’re brave enough, you can continue the hike to the Tamadite beach, a remote spot where the waves crash with force and you’ll feel like you’ve reached the end of the world. Additional tip: Wear appropriate footwear and bring enough water, as some of the routes can be demanding, especially on hot days.

Villages frozen in time

Anaga is not just about nature; it’s also about culture and tradition. The small villages scattered across the mountains, like Taganana, Chinamada, or Chamorga, retain much of Tenerife’s rural charm. These villages, with their stone houses and small churches, seem to have stopped in time. Here, Canarian traditions are kept alive, and it’s common to see locals working in the fields or tending to their vineyards.

Gastronomic tip: You can’t leave Anaga without tasting the local delicacies. In Taganana, for example, you’ll find small family-run restaurants serving typical dishes like “papas arrugadas” with “mojo,” “almogrote” (a strong cheese pate typical of La Gomera), or fresh fish. And if you’re lucky, they might even offer you a glass of homemade red wine, made from grapes grown on the steep slopes of the region.

Secrets and legends of Anaga

Anaga is not only known for its natural beauty but also for the legends that surround its mountains. It is said that in times past, these lands were inhabited by witches who performed rituals on the mountain tops under the light of the moon. Although these stories are just part of local folklore, they add a touch of mystery to the already fascinating atmosphere of Anaga. If you’re curious, ask the locals about these legends; some will be delighted to share more while serving you a glass of honey rum.

Tip about the weather: Anaga has its own microclimate, influenced by the trade winds that bring moisture from the Atlantic. This means the weather can change rapidly, going from bright sunshine to dense fog in a matter of minutes. Additional tip: Even if the day starts out sunny, always carry a waterproof jacket and warm clothing in your backpack. And if you decide to drive on Anaga’s roads, do so with caution; the sharp bends and narrow sections can be challenging, especially when visibility is limited.

A connection with the past

Few places in Tenerife will make you feel as connected to the island’s history as Anaga. For centuries, this region was practically inaccessible, and its inhabitants lived in relative isolation, allowing many traditions to remain intact. Today, although tourism has reached these lands, Anaga is still a place where time moves more slowly, and where you can disconnect from the modern world to reconnect with nature and history.

Why should Anaga be on your list?

Because it’s one of those places that offers you an authentic experience, far from the crowds, where nature and tradition come together to offer you a journey that you’ll not only enjoy but also remember for years to come.