The best cycling routes around La Orotava

La Orotava offers a wide array of touring cycling routes. On komoot, you'll find over 25 routes, with 18 classified as difficult, 6 as moderate, and 1 as easy. The region itself boasts at least 99 cycling routes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

The region is popular with cyclists in February and March, suggesting these are excellent months. However, given Tenerife's mild climate, touring cycling is generally enjoyable year-round. Always check local weather forecasts, especially when planning ascents to higher elevations like Mount Teide, where conditions can change.

While many routes in La Orotava feature significant elevation changes and are rated difficult, there is at least one easy touring cycling route available on komoot. For families or beginners, it's advisable to look for routes with minimal elevation gain and shorter distances, often found in the lower parts of the Orotava Valley. Always check the route profile before you go.

You'll encounter a remarkably diverse landscape. Routes traverse rugged volcanic terrain, lush laurel forests, sprawling vineyards, and stunning coastal vistas. Roads are generally well-maintained, with many featuring smooth paved surfaces, especially on popular climbs like the ascent to Mount Teide.

The routes offer breathtaking views and access to unique natural features. You can cycle through the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Teide National Park, with sights like Roque Cinchado and La Catedral. Many routes also pass by scenic viewpoints such as the Humboldt Observatory, offering panoramic views of the Orotava Valley and the Atlantic Ocean.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in La Orotava are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the challenging Margarita Rock – View of Mount Teide loop from La Perdoma and the scenic El Lance Viewpoint – San Marcos Parish loop from Monumento Natural de la Montaña de los Frailes. These loops provide varied scenery and a comprehensive experience of the region.

The touring cycling routes around La Orotava are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse volcanic landscapes, the lush laurel forests, and the scenic Orotava Valley. The challenging ascents, particularly towards Mount Teide, and the well-maintained roads are also often highlighted as major draws.

Many routes start from towns or villages like La Perdoma or Vilaflor de Chasna, where you can typically find public parking. For routes venturing into Teide National Park, designated parking areas are usually available at key access points or viewpoints. It's always a good idea to check the specific starting point of your chosen route for parking information.

La Orotava is well-connected by public transport within Tenerife. Buses (guaguas) operated by TITSA serve the town and surrounding areas. While some routes might be accessible directly by bus, you may need to cycle a short distance from a bus stop to the official starting point of a touring route. Check bus schedules and bike transport policies in advance.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments along many routes, especially when passing through villages or towns. The town of La Orotava itself offers numerous cafes and restaurants. For longer routes, particularly those ascending towards Teide, amenities become scarcer, so it's wise to carry sufficient water and snacks. Look for local 'ventas' or small bars in rural areas.

Many routes in La Orotava are rated as difficult due to significant elevation changes. A particularly demanding option is the Roques de García – Corona Forestal loop from Vilaflor de Chasna, which covers 41.2 km with over 1000 meters of elevation gain through volcanic terrain and pine forests. The ascent to Mount Teide from La Orotava is also renowned for its challenge and rewarding views.

Absolutely. Many routes provide spectacular views of Mount Teide, especially as you gain elevation. The Margarita Rock – View of Mount Teide loop from La Perdoma is specifically highlighted for its panoramic views of the volcano and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The ascent to Teide itself offers consistently breathtaking vistas of the summit and the distant coastline.