Cycling in Tenerife isn’t just about kilometers and elevation; it’s a visual experience. The island is a vertical concentration of landscapes, and there’s no better way to appreciate them than by conquering its “Miradors” (viewpoints).
Every climb, no matter how tough, always pays off with a spectacular view. These aren’t just rest stops; they are true milestones that offer panoramas of the ocean, neighboring islands, or the lunar landscapes of Teide.
But which are the best ones to reach by bike? Here is our ranking of the 5 must-see miradors, analyzing the road to get there, the climate you’ll find, and the reward for conquering them.
1. Mirador de Cherfe (Masca)
This is, without a doubt, one of the most photographed spots in Tenerife. Located along the winding TF-436, it’s the watershed that offers the first, dramatic view of the gorge and village of Masca.
- The Road: Reaching it is a feat. From the north (Buenavista), the climb is short (about 4.5 km) but brutal, with gradients hitting 20%. From the south (Santiago del Teide), the approach is gentler, but the final climb is still challenging. The asphalt is good, but the road is narrow and full of hairpins.
- The Climate: Being on the west side, it’s often sunny but can be windy.
- The Reward: The view. On one side, Teide; on the other, the Masca gorge plunging into the ocean, with the island of La Gomera in front. The souvenir photo taken here is worth every drop of sweat.
2. Mirador de Chipeque (Teide North Slope)
If you’re looking for a view that makes you feel like you’re above the clouds, you must climb here. Located along the TF-24 (the Dorsal road), at almost 2,000 meters, this mirador faces north.
- The Road: The climb from La Orotava or La Esperanza is very long but ridable, set within a magnificent pine forest. It’s one of the most beloved roads by cyclists.
- The Climate: The climate changes here. Being in the north, it’s cooler, and you’ll often encounter the “mar de nubes” (sea of clouds). You’ll start from the coast at 25°C and might need your wind vest at the top.
- The Reward: The spectacle of the sea of clouds beneath your feet, with the silhouette of Teide standing out against the blue sky. It’s especially magical at sunset.
3. Mirador de La Tarta (Teide National Park)
This is a geological mirador. Rather than an external panorama, it offers a view into the volcano’s history. It’s located on the TF-24, just before entering the main national park area.
- The Road: It’s the same road that leads to Chipeque, but continuing towards Teide. The road is billiard-table smooth, with steady gradients.
- The Climate: You are already in the high mountains. The air is dry, the sun is strong, and the temperature is cool.
- The Reward: The view of “The Cake” (La Tarta). This is a rock face that shows the stratification of different volcanic eruptions, with colors ranging from black to red to beige. It’s a mandatory stop to understand where you are cycling.
4. Mirador de Sámara (Teide National Park)
Located on the TF-38 (the climb from Chío), this mirador is often overlooked, but it’s a gem.
- The Road: The climb from Chío (TF-38) is perhaps the most beautiful for cyclists: perfect asphalt, low traffic, and steady gradients.
- The Climate: You are at over 2,000 meters. Intense sun and thin air.
- The Reward: From here, the view to the southwest is breathtaking. On clear days, you can perfectly see the islands of La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Palma floating on the ocean, all framed by Teide’s black lava flows.
5. Mirador “La Centinela” (South)
Unlike the others, this mirador isn’t in the high mountains, but it’s strategically positioned to understand the geography of the south.
- The Road: It’s a short but intense detour from the “classic” climb from Arona to Vilaflor.
- The Climate: Hot, dry climate of the south.
- The Reward: It offers a 180-degree view over the entire south coast, from Los Cristianos to Costa Adeje, and the inland areas. It’s the perfect spot for a photo before starting the “real” climb to Teide, to see just how far you’ve come.
Conquer the Miradors With Us
Knowing the miradors is easy, but reaching them is another story. Our guides don’t just take you to the destination; they know the best times to avoid the crowds, the “secret” photo spots, and the safest roads to get there.
Transform your ride into a collection of unforgettable postcards.
➡️ Discover the most beautiful panoramas on our Guided Tours