Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife

Spain

Tenerife

Tenerife is a dream destination for serious road cyclists. Sitting in the heart of the Canary Islands, this volcanic island rises steeply from the Atlantic Ocean, offering long, steady climbs and jaw-dropping views at every turn. The landscapes shift dramatically as you ride, from banana plantations along the coast to lunar-like lava fields high up on Mount Teide. It’s a place where the scenery constantly changes, but the challenge stays the same: up.

The weather is another reason cyclists love Tenerife. With mild temperatures year-round and little rain, it’s possible to ride in short sleeves even in the middle of winter. That’s why so many riders, especially from colder parts of Europe, come here to train when their roads are frozen. The reliable sunshine and dry conditions make it feel like summer all year long.

El Teide, the island’s massive volcano, is the star attraction. At over 3,700 meters, it’s the highest point in Spain. The climb to the Teide plateau is one of the longest and most consistent ascents in Europe, drawing pro teams like INEOS Grenadiers and Jumbo-Visma for high-altitude training camps. You’ll often see team cars and riders in full kit grinding up its slopes as part of their Grand Tour prep.

This is not a beginner’s playground. Tenerife is all about climbing. Most routes involve thousands of meters of elevation gain, and flat roads are almost non-existent. You’ll need good legs and solid gearing, but the effort pays off in quiet roads, smooth tarmac, and some of the most rewarding views you’ll ever see from a bike.

Despite its challenges, Tenerife has a welcoming cycling culture. Riders from all over the world gather here, and the local infrastructure is built to support them. Whether you're chasing fitness, altitude, or just epic days in the saddle, Tenerife delivers an unforgettable ride every time.

Read more

Photo Gallery

La Orotava
Tenerife
winding roads Masca
A small coastal town on the Canary Island of Tenerife.
View on El Teide
Pico Del Teide

Best time to ride

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Tenerife’s weather stays mild most of the year, making it a solid pick any time you want to ride. Because of the island’s volcanic shape and subtropical vibe, conditions shift depending on where you are. The north is cooler and wetter, the south stays warmer and drier, but honestly, you’ll find good riding weather on both sides.

Winter at sea level is surprisingly pleasant. But climb toward Mount Teide and things change fast. It can get cold up high, and sometimes there’s snow or ice near the summit. Spring is ideal with plenty of sun, not too hot, not too cool and the roads drying up.

Summer heats up fast in the lowlands, especially in the south. If you're riding then, it’s smart to start early or head for the higher roads to keep things comfortable. Autumn stays warm, the crowds thin out, and it’s one of the best times to rack up some big days.

Be sure to bring a jacket on your rides. Weather in the mountains can shift fast, with temperatures dropping suddenly. Even in good weather, the descents are long and fast, and the windchill can catch you off guard.

Read more

Where to stay

Base Towns

El Médano

It’s a great choice if you’re after a quieter, more laid-back base, especially if you want to stick to coastal roads and steer clear of the busiest tourist spots. You’ll still have solid access to El Teide from here. This small town on the southeast coast is also known as Tenerife’s windsurfing and kiteboarding hub, thanks to the steady easterly trade winds.

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Accommodations (11)

Places in Tenerife that welcome you and your bike.

Apartamentos Ambassador

Apartments Ambassador offers one- and two-bedroom units for groups of three to five, right in Puerto de la Cruz. There’s a peaceful courtyard garden to relax in and a pool for a post-ride dip.

Arona Gran Hotel

Located in the southern part of Los Cristianos, it offers a wellness center, fitness center, swimming pool, secure bicycle storage, a bike station, and a bike wash.

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Get full access to the Ride Atlas

Buy the Tenerife Guide and over 15 other guides for a one-time fee of just €29,95.

Already have an account? Log in

How to get there

  • By plane: There are two airport on Tenerife, Tenerife South (TFS, Reina Sofía) and Tenerife North (TFN, Los Rodeos). Which one you land at depends on where you're coming from. To get around, renting a car is usually your best bet. But if you're staying near the airport and picking up a rental bike, you might be fine without one.
  • By ferry: There are regular ferry connections from the other Canary Islands. Ferries from the western islands arrive in Los Cristianos on the southwest coast. Those coming from the eastern islands dock in Santa Cruz.

Bike Rentals (9)

Bike4you Tenerife

Bike brands: Trek, Giant, Ridley

The reviews say it all. People love renting from this shop. The bikes are high quality and well cared for. They also offer guided road rides and stock their own apparel, plus energy gels and bars.

Preview Content

Bike brands: Premium Brands Available

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Bike brands: Premium Brands Available

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Bike brands: Premium Brands Available

Get access to see more

Get full access to the Ride Atlas

Buy the Tenerife Guide and over 15 other guides for a one-time fee of just €29,95.

Already have an account? Log in

Shops (7)

Bicicletas Gil

In the old town of La Laguna, you’ll find Bicicletas Gil, a beautiful bike shop with a solid lineup of road bikes and cycling apparel. They carry the latest from BMC and Cervélo, plus a wide range of kit and accessories from brands like Assos, Q36.5, Lake, POC, Wahoo, Garmin, and more.

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Cafes & bars (14)

Restaurante Cafetería Tito

One of the final spots before the climb up El Teide through Vilaflor. A solid place to pause for a drink or a coffee.

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Preview Content

Get access to see more

Get full access to the Ride Atlas

Buy the Tenerife Guide and over 15 other guides for a one-time fee of just €29,95.

Already have an account? Log in

Cycling Routes (13)

Teide XL from la Laguna

170.8km | 3472m

Leaving from La Laguna puts you on the climb right from the start. After around 40 kilometers, you’ll reach El Portillo, with only a short stretch of climbing left near the top of El Teide. From there, descend through Vilaflor and ride about 80 kilometers parallel to the coast on scenic, winding roads.

Bailadero - Anaga Mountains

52.6km | 1250m

This route serves up spectacular views all the way up the Anaga Mountains and at the top. Along the way, you’ll hit two stunning viewpoints: Bailadero and Pico del Inglés. You can start this ride from either Santa Cruz or La Laguna.

Los Gigantes to Punta de Teno Lighthouse

97km | 3090m

This route brings big climbs and some of the best views of the island. Roll out from Los Gigantes and climb up to Erjos. From there, a beautiful descent to the coast is waiting. Ride toward Buenavista del Norte, and if you’re feeling strong, keep going to the Punta de Teno Lighthouse at the island’s western tip. From the coast, a winding climb takes you up to Mirador Altos de Baracán, then on to Masca and Mirador de Cherfe.

Coastal loop to San Miguel

59.9km | 1020m

Starting from Los Cristianos, this route rolls along the coast all the way to El Medano before turning uphill. The main climb kicks in as you head toward Granadilla de Abona. From there, it's a long, sweeping descent back down to Los Cristianos.

Loop du France

km | m

Get access to see more

Loop du France

km | m

Get access to see more

Map of Tenerife - 52 pins

Filter: Routes (13)

Get Access to this Guide

Buy access to unlock this map with all the insider tips for Tenerife

Already have an account? Log in

Community Discussion

Join the conversation, ask a question or share insights about Tenerife.

No questions yet

Be the first to ask the community about cycling in Tenerife!

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience about riding in Tenerife!