Canary Islands Drive
Spain
The volcanic islands off Africa's Atlantic coast where summer never ends, Teide National Park's 3,715m lunar volcano (the highest peak in Spanish territory), the UNESCO laurisilva cloud forest of La Gomera, Masca village in a near-vertical volcanic gorge, the black-sand beaches of Tenerife's southern coast, and the endemic Canarian dragon trees.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The Canarian capital anchored by Calatrava's wave-shaped Auditorio above the sea. The Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa and its February Carnival, the world's second largest after Rio, set the tone.
- Teide National Park
Spain's highest peak at 3,715m, rising through otherworldly lava fields and volcanic plugs. The cable car reaches 3,555m; at night the park is one of the world's top stargazing sites.
- Masca
Ancient stone houses cling to a near-vertical gorge 600m above the sea, reached by 27 hairpin bends. The four-hour descent through the Masca Gorge to the ocean is Tenerife's most celebrated hike.
- Los Gigantes
Sheer basalt cliffs rising 600m from Tenerife's western coast, above a marina of whale-watching boats. Resident pilot whale pods make this channel one of Europe's most reliable cetacean spotting grounds.
- Los Cristianos
The southern port where ferries cross to La Gomera in 50 minutes. Black-sand beaches and the lively harbour front make it a practical and pleasant overnight stop before the island crossing.
- Garajonay National Park
UNESCO laurel forest covering 40% of La Gomera, a relic of subtropical woodland that blanketed southern Europe 15 million years ago. Perpetual mist and gnarled moss-draped trees give it a primeval atmosphere.
- San Sebastián de La Gomera
La Gomera's small capital where Columbus took on water for his final Atlantic crossing in 1492. The Torre del Conde and the church where he prayed still stand in the quiet harbor town.
Where to Eat
- Restaurante El GuancheCanarian
Offers traditional Canarian dishes with panoramic views of the Masca Valley.
- El Rincón de Juan CarlosFine Dining
Michelin-starred restaurant known for innovative cuisine in Los Gigantes.
- La Vieja RestauranteSeafood
Renowned for fresh seafood and ocean views in Los Cristianos.
- Restaurante La SalamandraMediterranean
Serves Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist in San Sebastián de La Gomera.
Things to Do
- Teide Cable CarScenic Viewpoint
Ascend Mount Teide for breathtaking views of Tenerife and beyond.
- Masca Gorge HikeHike
A challenging trek through the stunning Masca Gorge to the ocean.
- Los Gigantes CliffsScenic Viewpoint
Marvel at the towering cliffs rising dramatically from the sea.
- Garajonay National Park Visitor CenterMuseum
Learn about the unique laurel forest ecosystem of La Gomera.
Travel advisory
Roads inside Teide National Park involve steep, winding ascents above 2,000 m where altitude and sharp bends require attentive driving. Access to the Teide summit crater requires a free permit booked well in advance through the Spanish park authority. Each island requires a separate ferry crossing, so plan inter-island logistics carefully.