Exploring Teide National Park in Tenerife

Volcanic Wonders at Teide National Park

Hola, nature lovers! Ava and Theo here, still awestruck from our adventure in Teide National Park on Tenerife, Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, is a surreal landscape of volcanic craters and starry skies. From hikes to Canarian feasts, here’s why Teide left us speechless.

Arriving at the Park

We drove from Santa Cruz, the park’s otherworldly terrain unfolding like a sci-fi movie set. Lava fields, twisted rock formations, and the towering Mount Teide greeted us. At the visitor center, we learned about the park’s volcanic history and grabbed a trail map. The crisp air and vast silence set the stage for an epic day.

Hiking the Trails

We chose the Roques de García trail, a 3.5km loop with jaw-dropping views. The path wound past bizarre rock formations, like the iconic Roque Cinchado, framed by Teide’s snow-dusted peak. Theo, our trailblazer, spotted a blue chaffinch, while Ava snapped photos of the lunar-like landscape. The trail’s gentle climbs offered panoramic vistas, and we paused often, soaking in the raw beauty.

Stargazing and Wildlife

Teide’s clear skies make it a stargazing haven. We joined a guided night tour, marveling at constellations through telescopes. The Milky Way was so vivid it felt within reach. During the day, we spotted Tenerife lizards darting across rocks, their quick movements adding life to the stark terrain. The park’s untouched wildness was humbling.

Foodie Moments

After hiking, we stopped at a nearby restaurant for Canarian cuisine. The papas arrugadas, wrinkly potatoes with mojo sauce, were a spicy delight. Theo loved the grilled goat, while Ava savored the banana flambé dessert. We paired our meal with a local Malvasía wine, toasting to Teide’s majesty. A coffee break at a park café, with views of the volcano, was pure bliss.

Why We Loved It

• Stunning Scenery: The volcanic landscapes were surreal.
• Foodie Joy: Canarian flavors like mojo sauce were divine.
• Starry Magic: The night sky was unforgettable.

Teide National Park is a must for adventurers craving nature’s raw power. What’s your favorite national park? Share below!