Tenerife
Sun, scenery, sand. In addition to climbing what more could you ask for? The volcano on the island of Tenerife rises to 3700m and the island has average temperatures between 20 and 30 celsius. This makes for a pleasant change from the winter cold of northern Europe, and so the island is a tourist hot spot and has its share of concrete jungles along the southern coast. These do have the benefit of beaches and lots of accomodation. Away from the southern coast, the island has some beautiful scenery, especially around Mount Teide.
Climbing is possible all year round, although the cooler (and wetter) winter months will be preferred. The most popular areas are around Arico in the south of the island, but there is also good climbing in the west near Guia de Isora and along the north coast. Climbing is naturally mostly on volcanic rock and is generally well bolted,although many of the crack lines have been left as trad routes. Most of the routes are possible with a 60m rope, although therer are a few 35m and 40m pitches. There is also lots of bouldering, especially in the Arico area. There is a climbing shop in Arico
As well as climbing, surfing and kite surfing, the island is also popular amongst cyclists. Good fitness is required though, the roads go interminably, and steeply, uphill, if the busy coastal roads are to be avoided.
Crags in this region:
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Arico | Tenerife's most popular crag. Bouldery routes up to 25m in length on igneous volcanic rock, that is similar to sandstone. It is situated in a beautiful area, the crags lying alongside a dried river gorge. This gives climbing on both sides, so there is always some shade. As well as many well bolted sport routes, the area has lots of excellent bouldering. |
| El Rio | El Rio presa is an interesting area. A dam that was built in the 1960s, then abandoned in the 1970s when they couldnt stop it leaking water through the volcanic fissures in the rock. The partly quarried faces, and even the dam wall itself now provide some excellent single pitch climbing. Make the most of it though, the local engineers are still trying to find a way to waterproof the dam floor and provide a much needed water supply. |
| Guaria | An excellent crag on the west side of the island, with a variety of routes. Although south facing, because of its position and altitude, the crag is often cloudy in the afternoon bringing welcome shade. |
| San Marcos | A small but worthwhile crag on the north side of the island. The crag is in a built up area close to the sea. The routes are short, steep, fingery and well bolted. |