Tenerife Beyond the Beaches: Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss

1. Anaga Rural Park – Tenerife’s Prehistoric Forest

Located in the northeast of the island, Anaga Rural Park feels like stepping back in time. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to laurel forests that date back millions of years, winding hiking trails, and mist-covered peaks that look straight out of a fantasy novel.

Unlike the busy beaches in the south, Anaga remains peaceful and unspoiled. Small hamlets such as Chinamada and Taganana offer authentic Canarian charm, traditional food, and breathtaking coastal views.

Why stay nearby?
Choosing properties for rent in Tenerife near Santa Cruz or La Laguna allows easy access to Anaga while enjoying quieter surroundings. Self-catering accommodation makes it simple to pack a picnic and spend the day exploring nature.

2. Masca Village – A Mountain Hideaway

Tucked into the Teno Mountains, Masca is one of Tenerife’s most dramatic villages. Surrounded by towering cliffs and deep ravines, this tiny settlement feels worlds away from the bustling resorts below.

Many visitors only stop briefly to take photos, but staying nearby reveals the magic of Masca at sunrise or sunset—when the crowds disappear and silence settles over the valley.

Local tip:
Base yourself in holiday letting apartments in Tenerife in the northwest of the island for a more immersive experience. The area offers cooler temperatures, scenic drives and access to spectacular hiking routes.

3. Garachico – A Town Reborn from Lava

Once Tenerife’s most important port, Garachico was nearly destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706. Today, it stands as one of the island’s most beautiful and authentic towns.

Cobbled streets, historic churches, and natural lava rock pools known as El Caletón make Garachico a must-visit for travelers seeking culture and history rather than nightlife.

Strolling through Garachico feels relaxed and timeless—perfect for visitors who want to slow down and truly connect with the island.

4. Cueva del Viento – Europe’s Largest Lava Tube

Hidden beneath the surface near Icod de los Vinos lies Cueva del Viento, one of the longest lava tube systems in the world. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, this underground labyrinth offers a fascinating look at Tenerife’s geological past.

Guided tours take you through narrow passages, lava formations, and underground chambers that most tourists never even hear about.

Pair it with:
A stay in nearby Tenerife holiday rentals surrounded by vineyards and banana plantations—ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, wine tasting, and peaceful evenings.

5. Vilaflor – Spain’s Highest Village

At over 1,400 meters above sea level, Vilaflor is the highest village in Spain and one of Tenerife’s most underrated destinations. Surrounded by pine forests and volcanic landscapes, it offers cooler air, scenic hiking trails, and stunning views across the island.

Vilaflor is also a gateway to Teide National Park, making it an excellent base for stargazing, sunrise hikes, and photography.

Choosing properties for rent in Tenerife in this region provides a completely different experience from coastal resorts—perfect for couples, hikers, and nature lovers.

6. Punta de Teno – Tenerife’s Wildest Coastline

At the far western tip of the island lies Punta de Teno, a rugged peninsula with dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and a historic lighthouse. Access is limited, which helps preserve its wild beauty and keeps visitor numbers low.

This area showcases Tenerife at its most raw and untamed—ideal for travelers who love photography and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Staying in nearby villages allows you to enjoy peaceful evenings and spectacular sunsets far from the crowds.

7. Local Markets & Traditional Villages

Beyond landscapes, Tenerife’s hidden charm lies in its everyday life. Weekly farmers’ markets in towns like Tegueste, Tacoronte, and La Orotava offer local cheeses, wines, tropical fruits and handmade goods.

Traditional villages with colorful houses and flower-filled balconies provide a glimpse into authentic Canarian culture that many tourists miss entirely.

When you choose holiday letting apartments in Tenerife, you’re free to shop locally, cook traditional dishes, and live more like a resident than a visitor.

Why Holiday Rentals Are the Best Way to Explore Hidden Tenerife

Exploring Tenerife’s lesser-known side requires flexibility—and that’s where holiday rentals truly shine.

Tenerife holiday rentals offer:

• Access to quieter, non-touristy areas
• More space and privacy than hotels
• Freedom to explore remote villages and natural parks
• Better value for longer stays
• A more authentic island experience

Whether you’re looking for coastal apartments, countryside villas or mountain hideaways, properties for rent in Tenerife make it easy to tailor your holiday to your interests.

Discover the Real Tenerife with Lupain

Tenerife is far more than a beach destination. From ancient forests and volcanic caves to historic towns and remote coastlines, the island rewards those willing to explore beyond the obvious.

At Lupain, we offer a wide range of holiday letting apartments in Tenerife and handpicked rental properties in both popular and lesser-known areas—so you can experience the island your way.

If you’re ready to uncover Tenerife’s hidden gems and enjoy a more meaningful holiday, start by choosing the right place to stay. The real Tenerife is waiting just beyond the beach.