Tenerife, Spain
Photo: Puusterke, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Anaga Rural Park is a national park covering most of the Anaga Massif in the northeast of the island Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. The Anaga Rural Park is the second most important natural heritage site of Tenerife, after the Teide National Park. There are paleontological sites of scientific importance within the boundaries of the park. It was inhabited by the Guanche people before Spanish colonisation, and has historically been important as grazing grounds.
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Magnificent viewpoint overlooking San Cristóbal de La Laguna and El Teide in the distance.
A small viewing platform overlooking the south Anaga valleys and container port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
One of the highest viewpoints looking west. It is possible to see the peak of Mount Teide on clear days. The parking lot of Cruz del Carmen is rather small and very popular, so it is recommended to come early when travelling by car to avoid long waiting lines.
Ermita de la Cruz del Carmen
In 1836 the cross that gives name to this place was placed to bless the walkers who passed through. Already at the end of the 19th century a small chapel was built where the cross stood. In 1961 another chapel was built that was later enlarged until reaching its current dimensions, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Carmen.
Three signposted walking trails, no. 1 accessible by wheelchairs. The longest trail leads to a weather station and viewpoint and takes about 1 hour in dry weather conditions and 1½ hours in rainy weather when mud slows the pace of walking considerably. Walking shoes or good sandals are highly recommended.
Simple local dishes like stews and rabbit in a very convenient location. Can get quite busy at times.
Highly regarded restaurant run by a French chef. Make sure to call ahead for a reservation.
A hostel up on the mountain ridge right in the heart of the park. Bed linen included, towels for rent.
Municipal camping ground with spots for tents and campers.
Commercial camping ground with spots for tents and campers.
From most directions, you'll want to take the motorway towards La Laguna. On TF-5, take exit 8a (signs for Tegueste and Anaga) and follow the TF-13 to Las Canteras.
Read in the guideOn foot
There are numerous walking trails signposted throughout the park, look for the white signs and yellow-white marks on posts and trees.
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Tenerife · International · TFN
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