Most Scenic Road Trips in Santa Cruz, Canary Islands, Spain
1. Ruta de las Calderas
A scenic drive along the Teide volcano's old lava flows with breathtaking views of the caldera.
- Volcanic Landscape: Offers a unique chance to explore ancient volcanic formations
- Stargazing Opportunities: Ideal for late-night drives due to minimal light pollution and clear skies.
- Accessible from the North: Easily reachable from Santa Cruz via Highway TF-1, making it a convenient day trip.
2. TF-823 to Los Gigantes
A coastal route with dramatic cliffs and vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Marine Life Viewing: Opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing stunning sunsets or the famous Los Gigantes cliffs.
- Restaurants in Los Gigantes: Popular seafood restaurants waiting at the end of the journey.
3. TF-121 to La Orotava Valley
A picturesque drive through the lush, terraced valley with historic towns and gardens.
- Historical Towns: Visit charming towns like La Orotava or Icod de los Vinos.
- Tropical Flora: Marvel at the beautiful, subtropical vegetation, especially banana and avocado plantations.
- La Geria Wine Country: Stop by vineyards for wine tasting and a taste of local cuisine.
4. TF-24 from Vilaflor to Chinyero
A high-altitude drive with panoramic views of Teide National Park.
- Altitude Experience: Get close to the Teide volcano without hiking up.
- Wildlife Observation: Possibility of spotting endemic species like the giant lizard (Gallotia goliath).
- Picnic Spots: Enjoy a picnic at one of the many scenic viewpoints along the route.
5. GC-331 to El Tanque and Masca
A winding road leading to the tiny village of Masca with stunning coastal views.
- Off-the-beaten-path: Less crowded than more popular routes, offering a unique experience.
- Hiking Opportunities: Access to challenging hikes, such as the Masca to Los Gigantes trail.
- Traditional Canarian Architecture: Discover traditional houses and churches in the village of Masca.
6. GC-234 to Puerto de la Cruz
A scenic drive along the northern coast with stops at charming fishing villages.
- Beach Destinations: Visit popular beaches like Lago Martiánez and Jardín Amarillo.
- Natural Pools: Swim in natural rock pools at Charles City or Muelle Pérez.
- Botanical Garden: Explore the historic Santa Cruz Botanical Garden.
7. TF-1 from La Laguna to Los Realejos
A scenic drive along the old royal road with views of historic towns and mountains.
- Historical Landmarks: Pass by several UNESCO World Heritage sites, like La Laguna.
- Coastal Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands.
- Festivals and Events: Timing your trip with local carnival festivities in Los Realejos.
8. GC-401 to Agaete
A scenic drive through the lush green hills and banana plantations of the northwest.
- Banana Plantation Tours: Learn about the cultivation and history of bananas in Canary Islands.
- Fishing Villages: Visit charming fishing villages like Agaete or Vallehermoso.
- Hidden Beaches: Discover secluded beaches along the way, such as Playa de la Laja.
9. GC-134 to Puerto Tazacorte
A coastal drive with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and vineyards.
- Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries for wine tasting and tours.
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Explore underwater world in the clear waters of Puerto Tazacorte.
- Natural Rock Pools: Swim in natural rock pools at Charco Azul or Playa de los Patos.
10. TF-5 from Arico to Icod de los Vinos
A scenic drive through vineyards and banana plantations with a stop at the famous dragon tree.
- Dragon Tree (Drago Milenario): Visit the millennial Drago Milenario, one of the oldest and largest dragon trees.
- Wine Tasting: Stop by local wineries for wine tasting and tours.
- Rural Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside and coastal vistas.
11. TF-47 from Tamadaba to Guía de Isora
A scenic drive through Tamadaba Natural Park with panoramic views of the mountains and coast.
- Natural Park Experience: Explore Tamadaba Natural Park, home to endemic plant species.
- Hiking Trails: Access to various hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
- Mountain Villages: Visit traditional mountain villages like Tamaimo or Guía de Isora.
12. GC-314 from Los Llanos de Aridane to Fasnia
A scenic drive through the lush hills and valleys of the west with views of Teide.
- Teide Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of the Teide volcano throughout the drive.
- Historical Settlements: Visit ancient settlements like El Cubo or Los Llanos de Aridane.
- Rural Landscapes: Experience the tranquility and beauty of the Canarian countryside.
13. GC-402 from Agaete to Santa Cruz de La Palma
A scenic drive along the western coast with views of the ocean and cliffs.
- Marine Life Viewing: Opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like the church in Santa Cruz de la Palma.
- Capital City Exploration: Explore the charming capital city of La Palma, with its colorful houses and cobblestone streets.
14. GC-233 from Los Realejos to Tegueste
A scenic drive through the countryside with views of the mountains and historical towns.
- Historical Towns: Visit charming historic towns like Tegueste or La Orotava.
- Coastal Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands.
- Carnival Festivals: Timing your trip with local carnival festivities in Los Realejos or Tegueste.
15. TF-231 to Iberia
A scenic drive through the lush hills and valleys of the east with views of El Hierro.
- Island Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the island of El Hierro.
- Hiking Trails: Access to various hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
- Rural Landscapes: Experience the tranquility and beauty of the Canarian countryside.