One of the main highlights of the incredible island of Tenerife is its nature, and the trails are one of its main manifestations. This is the case of the El Jagre trail, in Los Realejos. A place of tradition, consisting of a fantastic and low-difficulty route. It offers a combination of lush forest, panoramic views, and rural areas typical of the region, which allow you to glimpse the most genuine aspects of the island.
Another of its advantages is the absence of crowds, as it is a lesser-known trail. While most travelers choose Teide National Park, exploring the El Jagre trail allows you to enjoy a quieter and less touristy experience. Another interesting factor is that this route was part of an old traditional route used by farmers; now it has been restored and is one of the best activities you can do in Tenerife. Discover in this article everything you need to know to prepare your trip.
What is the El Jagre trail route like?
The route of the El Jagre trail in Tenerife is circular or semi-circular, with some different options. It is located between Icod el Alto and Barranco de Ruiz, a beautiful area in Los Realejos. The most common starting point is at the El Lance viewpoint or near the TF-342 road: you can choose one or the other, the route will be equally spectacular.
You will cross the thermophilic forest of the island, made up of dragon trees, wild olive trees, and mock privets, as well as traditional crops of Tenerife. You will pass through terraces and very old stone paths, and discover fantastic views of the Atlantic and the Los Realejos valley. If you are lucky and visit on a clear day, you may even see the mythical Teide.
The trail is identified in a basic way, so it is important to proceed with caution, look for the beacons, and use the map that the town hall provides to visitors. If you like original, uncrowded, and very natural trails, the El Jagre trail is a good option for you.
Landscapes and highlights
Along the El Jagre trail in Tenerife, you will discover unique and dazzling landscapes, despite the short length of the route. These are the most relevant points:
The initial views
At the beginning of the El Jagre trail, we are surprised with spectacular views of the valley and the northern coast region of the island, being able to glimpse the sea, incredible cliffs, and cultivated fields. Alternatively, you can explore the 500 steps viewpoint.
The thermophilic forest
This is one of the most interesting ecosystems that you can find in Tenerife, and it mixes diverse species that attract attention: the mythical dragon trees, the mock privets, and the wild olive trees alternate their prominence as we change altitude and solar orientation.
The natural viewpoints
There are several viewpoints that justify a few minutes of pause, to rest and enjoy the views. We recommend a visit on a day with clear skies, when it is easier to glimpse the sea and other natural elements of the north of Tenerife.
The Ruiz ravine
When doing this route, we will pass near some parts of the Barranco de Ruiz, although we will not enter this protected space. Even so, you can enjoy some of its natural diversity and take some photographs of its vertical walls.
The traditional terraces
The agricultural tradition of the island is still present on the El Jagre trail in Tenerife, and this is visible in the old stone walls that define the landscape; their function is to delimit the cultivation of vineyards, fruits, potatoes, and others, and also provides a rural aesthetic to this place.
Difficulty and duration
The route of the El Jagre trail in Tenerife is of low difficulty, making it ideal for families or for beginners in hiking, without complications and with many points of interest. Normally, it is a route that takes between an hour and a half and two hours, but this depends a lot on the pace of the walk, the chosen route (the total can vary between 4 and 6 kilometers), and the stops you want to make along the way.
There are some climbs, but they are not especially demanding: families usually consider the route as accessible. There are also no dangerous areas or technical sections, so do not hesitate to include the El Jagre trail as one of the best activities to do in Tenerife.
Preparation tips
To make sure everything goes well during your route along the El Jagre trail, we give you some suggestions based on experience:
- Wear comfortable shoes, adapted to different types of terrain, to guarantee your well-being.
- Bring enough water and snacks for the journey, because there is nowhere to buy them.
- Protect yourself from the sun, throughout the year: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.
- Outside the hot months, it is advisable to wear a windbreaker, as cold winds and fog can arise in the mountains.
- You can get a map of the area with very useful indications for your route.
- Follow the signposted path and do not harm the natural ecosystem, so that we can all enjoy it.
How to get to the El Jagre Trail
To get to the El Jagre trail, in the north of the island, start by heading to the Los Realejos area. It is an area perfectly connected with other main points of the region and some of the most charming villages: from Puerto de la Cruz, it will take between 15 and 20 minutes on the TF-5; from Santa Cruz, it will take about 35-40 minutes on the TF-5. You can park near some of the entrances to the trail, both on the road and on rural roads.
If you prefer to make the journey by public transport, bus lines 353 and 354 pass near some access points, although it is necessary to walk a little from the stop to the trail.
Recommended starting point
We recommend starting the El Jagre trail at the El Lance viewpoint, an incredible place in Los Realejos, which connects with the route.
Quiet nature: visit the El Jagre Trail
If you like lesser-known and authentic trails, the El Jagre trail is a true jewel of Tenerife. A simple but beautiful route, of low difficulty and high rural character. It is ideal to escape from the stress of everyday life and feel the rhythm of the island. In addition, you can complement your visit with some of the most charming towns in Tenerife, such as El Sauzal and La Matanza de Acentejo, or Puerto de la Cruz for a more city-like experience.
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