Taganana to Afur Gorge

This coastal hill run shows off the stunning beauty of the Parque Rural de Anaga in the north of Tenerife. The route takes us up into rugged green hills dotted with cacti, down to the coast through the lush Afur Gorge, and along a perfect coastal flow trail.
It is on the short side, but can easily be extended by going further up into the hills to include mesmerizing cloud forest and even more elevation gain. As it is posted the route already starts with a long, steep climb and the track through the river gorge is moderately technical. Beware of the weather, as the north of the island is frequently shrouded in fog.

Starting in the picturesque village of Taganana, which is well worth a visit and quite a popular tourist destination, a steep trail climbs high above the sea into the lush green hills to the magnificent views from Mirador de Cumbrecilla, 600m above sea level – the highest point of the run. A wider track and a stretch of paved road take us back down to the hamlet of Afur, where the gorge begins.

A moderately technical trail offers glimpses of ocean as we make our way down through mesmerizing flora. It is slow-going and well worth taking your time, until we reach the serene, lonely Playa de Tamadite populated by a single shepherd’s hut.

In beautiful flow, the trail returns to Taganana along coastal cliffs. Sweeping ocean vistas featuring some of Tenerife’s most striking rock formations open up as we round the bends.