El Teide (Los Gigantes)

Start Town	Altitude	Elevation Gain	Length	Gradient	Difficulty	Rating
Los Gigantes	2,325m	2,322m	51.8 km	4.5%	1,221	*****

Climb Description

This is one of several routes to El Teide, the huge volcano in the centre of Tenerife. It begins in the village of Los Gigantes, close to Puerto de Santiago on the west coast.

El Teide is the most iconic climb in Tenerife and one of the most famous in Spain. It is the highest mountain in all of Spain at over 3,700m and, although the road does not go that high, it is understandably popular with cyclists. The stunning views and consistent gradients make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience. While the elevation gain is even more than on monstrous climbs such as Stelvio and Col du Tourmalet

The route from Los Gigantes is one of the lesser climbed sides, mainly because the starting point is not so accessible as those from other sides; however, the climb from here is every bit as enjoyable and specatcular as from the other sides. The bulk of the climbing is done in the first 37km. After that it is more rolling before a final push in the last 5km.

For an experienced cyclist, the climb from Los Gigantes is an unforgettable challenge and not too difficult if you pace yourself and settle in for the long haul!

Due to Tenerife's sub-tropical climate, El Teide is open throughout the year. This makes it one of very few places in Europe where you can ride climbs that rival the great Alpine ascents throughout winter.

Roads & Traffic

The road is generally in good condition. The surface is slightly broken in places, particularly on the TF-38, but it doesn't affect the enjoyment of the climb.

For the most part there is not much traffic. The few kilometres either side of Tamaimo are busier than the rest of the climb, but it is still not heavy.

Alternative Routes

Teide can be climbed from several other sides. All of which are fairly similar in terms of difficutly; the main differences are in the traffic and the scenery on the lower part of the climb.

El Teide - Medano

El Teide - Playa San Juan

El Teide - Puerto de la Cruz

El Teide - Santa Cruz

Nearby Climbs

Erjos Garachico

Mirador de Masca

Pico del Ingles - La Laguna

Teno Alto

Taganana

Cycling Holidays

The climb to El Teide is one of the highlights of our Best of Tenerife cycling holiday. There is the option to climb all the way from the coast near Los Gigantes, or to start higher up at Santiago del Teide.

In the links below you can find out more about this tour and other similar holidays that we are currently running in the mountains.