Mirador de Montaña Grande
Hello summit explorer! I'm your "Local Insider" from Canaguia.com. If you've decided to go up to Teide via the northern road, the famous ridge road (TF-24), get ready because you are about to enter a green tunnel. Just as you leave the town of La Esperanza behind and the air starts smelling of eucalyptus and pine, you run into the Mirador de Montaña Grande. It is the official welcome to the wild nature of Tenerife.
A Green Balcony Over the City at Mirador de Montaña Grande
Located in the Las Rosas area, in the municipality of El Rosario, this viewpoint is the perfect transition point. You are at an altitude of about 1,200 meters. From the Mirador de Montaña Grande, if you look down, you will see how civilization (La Laguna and Santa Cruz) becomes small, often covered by a blanket of low clouds.
The beauty of this place is the contrast. You are surrounded by lush vegetation, typical of the La Esperanza forest, while your eyes scan the potato fields and vineyards that dot the slopes. It is a cool, damp place full of life, where the singing of birds replaces the noise of cars. It is the ideal place to understand how we Canarians have farmed in the "medianías" (mid-lands) for centuries.
Tips from Your Local Insider
This stop is strategic, and here is how to make the most of it:
- Watch out for the "Panza de Burro": This area is famous for fog. Sometimes the viewpoint is immersed in the cloud (what we call "bruma"). If so, don't get frustrated; put on your jacket, breathe in the moisture, and enjoy the mystical atmosphere of the forest. It has its charm!
- Impromptu Picnic: The area has tables and is very accessible. It is the perfect place to stop and eat a "chorizo de perro" sandwich (typical here) or some sweets from La Esperanza before continuing up towards the National Park.
- Look at the flowers: In spring, the surroundings of Mirador de Montaña Grande fill with blue tajinastes and poppies. If you like macro photography, you are going to have a blast taking beautiful photos.
Mirador de Montaña Grande is the "entrance hall" to Teide. A fresh and green stop to leave the city stress behind and connect with the mountain.