Puerto de la Cruz sits on the green north coast of Tenerife and offers a different trip from the resort south. This is the older, more Canarian side of the island, set in the lush Orotava valley with banana plantations, a historic town centre and a backdrop of mountains that climb straight toward the clouds. For riders who want character and quieter roads over resort convenience, the north is the more rewarding base.
The climbing here is serious. From sea level the road up through La Orotava toward El Teide is one of the longest continuous ascents anywhere, gaining over 2,000 metres before it tops out on the volcano. To the east, the Anaga mountains offer steep, narrow, deeply scenic roads and gravel that feel a world away from the coast. The north sees more cloud and the occasional shower than the south, which keeps the landscape green but means the weather rewards an early, flexible start.
Spring and autumn are ideal, though the north rides well year round for those who do not mind variable skies. Puerto de la Cruz suits riders who value authentic surroundings, brutal long climbs and a base with real local life rather than a holiday strip. The road and gravel bikes listed above come from shops based in and around Puerto de la Cruz.
