Road above the Clouds: Scenic Highway to Mount Teide
Explore one of Tenerife's most breathtaking motorcycle routes, scaling the spectacular spine of the island from the northern coastline up to high-altitude volcanic ridges and deep into Teide National Park. This journey offers iconic mountain viewpoints, dramatic geological formations, and serene high-altitude landscapes.
Route Information
Total Distance: 147 km
Riding Time: Approximately 3 hours 05 minutes
Recommended Duration: Full day including sightseeing stops
Weather: Mild temperatures along the coast (18–28°C) and cooler conditions around Teide (5–15°C depending on the season)
Mobile Coverage: Good along most of the route, with limited coverage possible in some mountain areas
Route Start – Puerto de la Cruz
Your journey begins in Puerto de la Cruz, one of Tenerife’s most popular seaside towns. Leaving the northern coast, you'll climb into the lush highlands along TF-24 toward the main ridge of the island.
Stop 1: Mirador de Ortuño
The first stop is Mirador de Ortuño, situated high among the Canarian pine forests. This iconic viewpoint offers panoramic views of Tenerife's northern coast and, on clear days, a sea of clouds framing Mount Teide in the distance.
Stop 2: Mirador de Chipeque
A short ride further along the ridge brings you to Mirador de Chipeque, one of Tenerife’s absolute best spots for photography. Standing high above the tree line, you get a front-row view of Mount Teide rising majestically over the sea of clouds. If you stop at only one viewpoint for photos, make it this one.
Stop 3: Mirador La Tarta
Ascend higher toward Teide National Park to Mirador La Tarta. Named after the distinct, multi-layered volcanic ash strata visible in the exposed roadside cliff face, this stop highlights the island's fascinating volcanic history.
Stop 4: Ethnographic Museum Juan Évora
Ride deeper into the stunning volcanic plains of Teide National Park to reach the Ethnographic Museum Juan Évora. Housed in a traditional stone cottage, this charming spot reveals the story of the last inhabitant to live a traditional, high-altitude pastoral lifestyle in Las Cañadas. It’s a peaceful, fascinating pit stop to absorb local Canarian culture amidst the surreal lava landscapes.
Stop 5: Mirador Piedra La Rosa
On the return descent through La Orotava Valley via TF-21, pause at Mirador Piedra La Rosa. This natural geological curiosity features basalt rock columns cooled in a distinct petal-like radial structure resembling a giant stone rose.
Stop 6: La Orotava
Descent through the lush pine forest of the Orotava Valley until you reach La Orotava, one of Tenerife´s oldest and most picturesque colonial towns.
explore traditional Canarian arhitecture, historic wooden balconies, and charming places before compliting the loop back to Puerto de la Cruz. (photo by Atlantic Ambience).
