The best MTB trails in the Canary Islands

There are over 2,000 mountain bike routes across the Canary Islands, catering to various skill levels. Approximately 260 are easy, over 1,000 are moderate, and more than 700 are considered difficult.

The Canary Islands offer incredibly diverse volcanic terrain. You'll encounter black lava fields, loose pumice soil, and unique rock formations, especially around areas like Mount Teide in Tenerife or the 'lunar landscapes' of Lanzarote. Trails also wind through lush pine forests, ancient laurel forests, and dramatic barrancos (ravines) with significant elevation changes.

The mountain bike trails in the Canary Islands are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 6,000 reviews. More than 44,000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the unique volcanic landscapes and the extensive network of routes.

While many trails offer challenging ascents, there are also easier options suitable for families. Look for routes designated as 'easy' in komoot. For example, the Corralejo North Coast and Volcanoes Loop on Fuerteventura is a moderate route that offers scenic views without extreme technical difficulty, making it enjoyable for active families.

Absolutely. The islands are rich in natural beauty. On Gran Canaria, you can find trails with panoramic views of natural landmarks like Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga. Tenerife offers routes through the Teide National Park with its volcanic landscapes, and the Anaga Mountains feature mystical misty laurel forests. You can also explore highlights like the Cruz de Tejeda or the Alto de Fataga mountain passes.

Yes, many routes in the Canary Islands are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Ruta del Coral y Ruta del Norte — circular por el Parque Natural del Archipiélago Chinijo, which takes you through the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park.

Yes, the islands feature diverse forests. Gran Canaria is known for its extensive pine forests, particularly in the Tamadaba Natural Park. Tenerife has trails through the ancient laurel forests of the Anaga Mountains and the pine forests of the Corona Forestal Natural Park, such as the BC-1 Ruta Forestal del Norte.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Canary Islands offer numerous difficult routes. The Lighthouse Punta de Jandia and Cofete loop on Fuerteventura is a difficult route through the Jandia Natural Park. Another demanding option is the Las Lagunetas Loop Trail on Gran Canaria, featuring significant elevation changes.

The volcanic nature of the Canary Islands has created many fascinating caves and geological formations. You can find highlights like the Ajuy Caves on Fuerteventura or the Chinamada Cave Village on Tenerife, which are unique places to explore off the bike.

Gran Canaria, La Palma, and Tenerife are especially popular for mountain biking holidays and training due to their extensive trail networks, diverse terrain, and significant elevation changes. However, all islands offer unique riding experiences, from the 'lunar landscapes' of Lanzarote to the coastal trails of Fuerteventura.

Yes, some islands, particularly Gran Canaria, offer spectacular trails that blend mountain and sea vistas. The coastal strips and cliffs provide dramatic backdrops for your ride, allowing you to experience both the rugged interior and the beautiful coastline.

The Canary Islands benefit from a year-round mild climate, making them an excellent destination for mountain biking at any time. However, the cooler months from autumn to spring (October to May) are often preferred for more strenuous rides, as summer temperatures can be quite high, especially in exposed volcanic areas.