20 Jun Laurel forests in Tenerife: the island’s greenest hiking trails
When people think of Tenerife, they often imagine volcanoes, arid landscapes and the imposing silhouette of Mount Teide dominating the horizon. However, the island hides a completely different side. Among its mountains survive some of Europe’s oldest forests: the laurel forests.
These authentic cloud forests offer a hiking experience completely different from volcanic routes. Here, humidity, intense greenery and the silence of nature take centre stage. Walking among centuries-old trees covered in moss allows visitors to discover one of the most fascinating ecosystems in the Canary Islands.
What is laurel forest and why is it so special?
Laurel forest is a type of humid subtropical woodland that covered large areas of southern Europe and North Africa millions of years ago.
Today, these forests have disappeared from most parts of the planet, but they still survive in a few privileged locations within Macaronesia, especially in the Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores.
In Tenerife, the combination of altitude, orientation and the influence of the trade winds has allowed significant forest areas to survive, creating genuine natural treasures.
Thanks to the so-called sea of clouds, moisture is trapped in the mountains, continuously nourishing this unique ecosystem.
A landscape completely different from Teide
One of the most surprising aspects of Tenerife is the dramatic contrast between its landscapes.
While the higher areas of Teide National Park feature volcanic terrain and almost lunar scenery, the laurel forests offer a cool, lush environment where vegetation dominates every corner.
This contrast makes Tenerife one of Europe’s most diverse hiking destinations.
In little more than an hour, hikers can go from walking across volcanic lava fields to exploring trails surrounded by ferns, heathers and centuries-old laurel trees.
The experience of walking through a cloud forest
Walking through a laurel forest trail is an experience that engages all the senses.
Temperatures are usually more pleasant than in other parts of the island, while the constant shade provides a refreshing atmosphere throughout much of the year.
The sounds are completely different as well.
The silence is interrupted only by:
- Birds singing.
- Leaves moving in the breeze.
- Water droplets falling from branches.
- Wind passing through the vegetation.
It is the perfect environment to disconnect from everyday life and immerse yourself in nature.
Unique biodiversity in the Canary Islands
The laurel forest is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species adapted to these humid conditions.
Many of them are endemic, meaning they can only be found in specific parts of the archipelago.
Among the most common plants are:
- Laurel trees.
- Viñátigos.
- Til trees.
- Giant heathers.
- Large ferns.
This environment represents one of the most valuable ecosystems in the Canary Islands from an ecological perspective.
The best routes to discover Tenerife’s laurel forests
The mountain ranges in the north of the island contain some of the most attractive trails for discovering these forests.
The paths cross dense vegetation where mist frequently appears, creating landscapes that seem straight out of a fairy tale.
The combination of forests, ravines and viewpoints makes every route unique.
Most trails are of moderate difficulty, making them accessible to a wide range of hikers.
Tenerife ESSENTIAL: the best way to discover the island’s green forests
For travellers who want to explore these landscapes in an organised way while maintaining their independence, Natour offers the Tenerife ESSENTIAL programme.
This itinerary has been designed to showcase some of Tenerife’s most representative natural environments, including laurel forests and mountain trails.
Its greatest advantage is that it allows travellers to enjoy the experience freely without worrying about route planning.
Total freedom thanks to the included rental car
One of the distinctive features of Tenerife ESSENTIAL is the inclusion of a rental car.
This makes it easy to reach the starting points of different routes and explore the island independently.
Mobility is especially important in Tenerife, where many of the best hiking trails are located far from the main tourist areas.
This flexibility allows travellers to adapt each day according to their interests and pace.
Easy navigation with maps and GPX files
To ensure a safe experience, Natour provides all the documentation required to complete the routes independently.
Each traveller receives:
- Detailed maps.
- Complete route descriptions.
- GPX files compatible with GPS devices and smartphones.
This makes navigation easy even in areas where dense vegetation and mist can reduce visibility.
Self-guided hiking at your own pace
Natour’s philosophy is based on the concept of hiking independently.
This means that each traveller can walk at their own pace, stop whenever they wish and fully enjoy the surroundings.
The possibility of starting the trip on almost any date also provides a level of flexibility highly appreciated by independent travellers.
Charming accommodation to relax after the hike
After a day exploring forests and mountain trails, rest becomes an important part of the experience.
For this reason, the programmes include carefully selected small hotels full of character.
These accommodations offer the opportunity to experience local hospitality and enjoy an authentic atmosphere away from large tourist resorts.
Breakfast is included, helping travellers start each day with plenty of energy for the next adventure.
Sustainable tourism in one of the Canary Islands’ most valuable ecosystems
Laurel forests are environmentally sensitive areas.
For this reason, activities carried out in these locations promote a responsible tourism model based on:
- Respect for marked trails.
- Biodiversity conservation.
- Support for local communities.
- Reducing environmental impact.
This approach allows visitors to enjoy nature while helping to preserve it.
Key facts about Tenerife’s laurel forests
Quick information
- Ecosystem: Humid subtropical forest.
- Location: Mountainous areas in northern Tenerife.
- Landscape: Lush vegetation and sea of clouds.
- Recommended programme: Tenerife ESSENTIAL.
- Difficulty: Moderate (▲▲▲△△).
- Includes: Rental car, accommodation, breakfast, maps and GPX files.
Frequently asked questions about Tenerife’s laurel forests
What exactly is laurel forest?
It is a humid subtropical forest that survived in parts of Macaronesia thanks to very specific climatic conditions.
Where are these forests located in Tenerife?
Mainly in mountainous areas influenced by the trade winds and the sea of clouds.
Are the routes difficult?
Most routes are of moderate difficulty and suitable for regular hikers.
How are these trails different from Teide routes?
The vegetation, humidity and atmosphere. They are two completely different experiences within the same island.
Is it worth combining both experiences?
Absolutely. The contrast between volcanic landscapes and lush forests is one of Tenerife’s greatest attractions.
Conclusion
The laurel forests represent one of the most surprising and least-known sides of Tenerife.
Walking among centuries-old trees, vegetation-covered trails and permanent mist reveals a landscape completely different from the image most people associate with the Canary Islands.
For travellers seeking nature, tranquillity and an authentic experience, these green routes are among the finest hiking opportunities the island has to offer.