Mountain Biking in Tenerife

The bike, the mountain, happiness

The bicycle on the edge of the asphalt

Those who have never ridden mountain biking find it difficult to understand the passion of the fans to suffer climbing extreme slopes or descending like crazy through forests and ravines. And those who have never done mountain biking in Tenerife do not know the true potential of this addictive sport.

Tenerife is a world sanctuary for mountain biking.

With its rugged relief, dramatic slopes and magnificently preserved natural spaces, Tenerife is one of those world mountain bike sanctuaries where those who are not devoted on arrival, usually convert before their departure. Freeride, downhill, cross-country, enduro, all modalities can be practiced here without major complications.

The network of forest tracks in Tenerife is the most suitable for MTB. It crosses the island in all directions, and especially La Corona Forestal and other protected natural areas. The best reference to know the signposted BC (bicycle and horse routes) of the island is this one, the official one of the Cabildo de Tenerife, in which 8 different areas are indicated, including recreational areas and camping areas, among other facilities.

We don’t need to tell you, but if you want to practice mountain biking in Tenerife, as anywhere else, you should first inform yourself well of the routes you want to do (their characteristics and technical difficulties), and of course that you wear, in addition to a suitable bike, the necessary protective equipment. Here is some information about it.

Mountain biking trails in Tenerife

It is not easy to mention only three mountain bike tours; Tenerife has an infinite number of routes of varying length and difficulty. This is just a sample…

Northern Forest Route: It is the great MTB route of the island, which runs along the entire northern slope of the Corona Forestal. Almost 90 kilometres, from Las Raíces to Chío, and numerous variants at your disposal. Extremely demanding, both for its length and its layout, it is very common to find many fans doing it in different sections over the course of a week, for example.

Pinares del Sur and Volcanes Negros: If you are looking for the most iconic image of the island, this is your route. A little more than 16 kilometres between pine forests and arid volcanic terrain. But that does not mean that there are not good slopes; Don’t expect a bed of roses, but a percentage of more than 8%… It would be, in any case, an excellent way to get started with mountain biking in Tenerife.

Malpaís de La Rasca: Just to show that, speaking of mountain bike routes, Tenerife has routes for all tastes, we present something completely different. This route through La Rasca, at the southern end of the island, is practically flat and technically very simple, but with great natural and ethnographic attractions: the volcanic terrain of Cardonal-Tabaibal meets here with the Guanche archaeological footprint.

Where can I rent a mountain bike in Tenerife?

You may be imagining that, in terms of mountain bike rental, Tenerife has a huge offer. No, you’re not the first one who has come without a bike…

Probicis Norte: This house in Santa Úrsula is one of those places where you smell of cycling from the moment you enter; Workshop and shop of a lifetime, they might as well manage a chain as you take a stopwatch. They know the world and, of course, all the corners of the island to cycle. And they offer you the solutions you need. An excellent option to take a rental bike and, incidentally, a good handful of tips and recommendations.

Bike Point Tenerife: With an establishment in El Médano and another in Las Americas, Bike Point has become a must-see if you want to rent a mountain bike in the south of the island. Of course, not only mountain biking is the rental, but in this range they have good bikes (BMC Teamelite 02SLX or Ridley Ignite A XT 2×11, for example), perfectly cared for and with a very competitive price.

BikeSpirit: If you are looking to mountain bike in Tenerife, it is very likely that a good part of your routes will start or end in Puerto de la Cruz or its surroundings. It is not the only option in the suburbs, far from it, but this is one of the most popular. The rental of a solid Merida 29er includes accessories (helmet, repair kit and pump) and, as amateurs, they will be able to give you some clues for your outings.

"If you see me on the mountain you will recognize me because I will be a happy guy full of mud." – The Gualas boy

Land, rock and freedom

MTB combines physical challenge, wild environment and technical demand all in one. It is the conjunction of these elements that makes mountain biking so attractive for lovers of sports, nature and adventure.

As with other activities related to these areas, Tenerife has all the features and provisions that are necessary for you to enjoy yourself as you like. Exercise, adrenaline and the outdoors come together and offer you extreme and extremely rewarding experiences.

And, of course, the island’s impressive tourist offer makes it possible to combine very different activities in the same room. If you want to combine your passion for mountain biking with an urban cultural route, a classic beach day or a relaxed yoga session, who stops you?

Mountain biking in Tenerife is, in any case, one of the highlights of any visit to the island. Rent your bike and, on your own or on organized tours, launch yourself on the trails and tracks of the island, free your senses and unleash your most sporty and extreme side. You will return tired, perhaps a little bruised, but happy as never before.

Other Activities in Tenerife