Masca

A village hidden in a spectacular mountain gorge in northwestern Tenerife, accessible only via a dizzying mountain road. The Masca Gorge hike descends from the village to the ocean through one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Canaries.

Despite Tenerife receiving millions of tourists, most never venture into the Teno mountains where Masca hides at the end of a terrifying single-track road.

History

Masca, nestled high in the Teno Rural Park on Tenerife, is a village of extraordinary beauty and isolation. Its ancient origins are shrouded in time, with its name often linked to the Guanche aboriginal inhabitants of the Canary Islands. The village's remote location in the dramatically carved Masca Gorge meant it remained largely cut off from the rest of the island until relatively recently, preserving a unique way of life and traditional architecture of stone houses.

Historically, access to Masca was challenging, involving a treacherous donkey trail or a long hike. This isolation contributed to its folklore and the preservation of its distinct heritage. While it never played a major role in colonial history due to its inaccessibility, its natural setting and connection to the land have made it a significant site for understanding the island's pre-Hispanic and rural past. Today, its dramatic landscapes and famous gorge hike attract visitors, transforming it from a forgotten hamlet into a celebrated natural wonder.

Highlights

• Spectacular gorge hike to the sea
• Dramatic mountain village setting
• Pre-Hispanic Guanche settlement site
• Dizzying mountain access road

How to get there

From Santiago del Teide, take the TF-436 winding mountain road directly to Masca. It's about a 20-minute drive, but the road is narrow and challenging. Buses also run from Santiago del Teide.

Explore nearby: Santa Cruz de Tenerife province