The best gravel rides in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands offer incredibly diverse terrain for gravel biking. You'll encounter dramatic volcanic landscapes, such as those around Teide National Park in Tenerife or the lunar-like vistas of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote. Beyond the volcanic areas, routes traverse lush pine-covered plateaus and ancient laurel forests, particularly in Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Many trails also feature rugged coastlines and coastal dunes, providing stunning ocean views and varied surfaces.

The Canary Islands are an excellent destination for gravel biking year-round due to their consistently favorable climate. While spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures (17°C to 25°C) and fewer tourists, the mild winters are particularly attractive for those escaping colder climates. You can enjoy ideal riding conditions almost any day of the year.

Yes, the Canary Islands are known for their challenging long-distance gravel routes. For example, the Gravel tour around the island of El Hierro is a difficult 72.6-mile (116.8 km) route that circumnavigates the entire island with significant elevation gain. Another notable long-distance option is the Gravel route Gran Guanche in Tenerife, a challenging 104.0-mile (167.3 km) path traversing Tenerife's volcanic interior.

The Canary Islands are rich in natural wonders. On Gran Canaria, you might encounter the iconic Roque Nublo or the Pico de las Nieves summit. Tenerife offers views of Roque Cinchado within Teide National Park. Many routes also showcase spectacular volcanic formations, ancient laurel forests, and rugged coastlines across the islands.

Gravel biking in the Canary Islands offers a wide range of difficulties. While there are some moderate coastal loops, the majority of routes, especially those exploring the volcanic interiors and mountainous regions, are considered difficult. These often involve significant elevation gain and challenging technical sections. For example, the Gravel in Tenerife from Aguamansa to La Montañeta is a difficult 45.1 km route with nearly 800m of ascent.

Yes, many gravel routes in the Canary Islands are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Atlantic Coast View – Panoramic view loop from Geafond, a 28.6-mile (46.1 km) route offering coastal vistas. Another is the View of Montaña Negra – Lava Field Crossing loop from Santiago del Teide, a difficult 51 km loop through unique volcanic landscapes.

The gravel biking experience in the Canary Islands is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse and dramatic landscapes, from volcanic terrains to lush forests and stunning coastal views, as well as the extensive network of gravel roads and trails that cater to various skill levels.

While many routes in the Canary Islands are challenging, there are options suitable for families looking for less strenuous rides. Look for shorter, less elevated coastal paths or routes within flatter, more developed areas. It's always recommended to check the route's difficulty and elevation profile on komoot before heading out with family.

There are over 250 gravel bike trails available in the Canary Islands, catering to a wide range of abilities and preferences. This extensive network includes everything from moderate coastal loops to very difficult, long-distance routes with significant elevation gain across various islands.

Absolutely. The Canary Islands are renowned for their breathtaking viewpoints. Many gravel routes are specifically designed to pass by or lead to panoramic vistas, offering stunning views of the ocean, volcanic landscapes, and lush interiors. For instance, the View of Cofete Beach – Cofete Viewpoint loop from Robinson Club Jandia Playa provides spectacular coastal scenery.

Public transport options vary by island and specific trailheads. While major towns and tourist areas are well-served by buses, access to more remote gravel trails might be limited. It's advisable to research local bus routes and schedules for the specific island and starting point of your chosen trail. Some routes might require a car for convenient access to the trailhead.