Mirador de los Poleos
Hello road tripper! I'm your "Local Insider" from Canaguia.com. If you are driving up to Teide via the western road (the beautiful TF-38 from Chío), you will notice how the landscape changes radically. Right where the Canary pine forest becomes denser and the air purer, you have to make a strategic stop at the Mirador de los Poleos. It is the ideal place to recharge your lungs before reaching the lunar landscape.
The Natural Frontier of Mirador de los Poleos
Located at an altitude of about 1,450 meters, this viewpoint is special because it marks a transition. Around you, the "Corona Forestal" embraces you with its green pines and scent of resin, but if you look at the ground, you will see black volcanic earth and gravel. The Mirador de los Poleos gifts you a spectacular panoramic view of the entire west coast of Tenerife.
From here, the hotels and towns of Guía de Isora look tiny. What dominates the horizon is the immense Atlantic Ocean and the silhouette of the island of La Gomera, which from this height looks like a floating castle. It is a much less crowded place than the viewpoints in the National Park, so silence here is the real protagonist.
Tips from Your Local Insider
To enjoy this technical stop with Canarian style, note my suggestions:
- Picnic under the pines: The area is usually very quiet. If you bring a sandwich or some "cotufas" (popcorn), sitting on the stone wall to enjoy the breeze and the views is a simple but effective plan.
- Route to Chinyero Volcano: Very close to Mirador de los Poleos, trails begin that take you towards the Chinyero Volcano area (the island's last eruption in 1909). It is easy terrain, and the contrast of black and green colors is brutal for photos.
- Chase the sunset: Being oriented to the west, watching the sun go down from here is magical. The sky turns fiery between the pine branches. Just make sure to bring a coat because as soon as the sun goes away, the cold is felt instantly!
Mirador de los Poleos is the perfect pause. A natural balcony where the forest and the volcano shake hands to say goodbye to the sun.