Cycling in Tenerife in summer: when to ride, where to go and how to handle the heat
You can ride in Tenerife all year round, summer included. It is hotter than in winter, but the island has an advantage few destinations can offer: within a few kilometres you go from the coast to the mountains, and altitude brings cooler air. Here are our tips for enjoying the bike in the hot months.
Start early
The first hours of the morning are the best part of the day: less heat, less traffic and beautiful light. Try to be back before the middle of the day, when the sun is strongest on the coast. If you are planning a long ride, start rolling close to sunrise.
Look for altitude and shade
The higher you climb, the cooler it gets. The roads through the hillside villages and the pine forest belt are the most pleasant in summer. A good plan is to climb early and enjoy the high part while the coast is already hot.
Hydration and heat
- Leave with two full bottles and plan where you can refill them.
- Drink little and often from the start, before you feel thirsty, and add electrolytes on long rides.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and light, breathable clothing.
- If you feel dizzy, get a headache or shivers, stop in the shade and drink: don't push on.
Routes we recommend in summer
1. Vilaflor
A climb through pine forests to the highest village in the Canary Islands, with shade and milder temperatures at the top.
2. Mount Teide
The big climb; in summer, start very early so you ride the lower part in the cool.
3. East Coast
The old road through the hillside villages, ideal first thing in the morning.
Calima and wind
In summer there can be episodes of calima, with dusty air and higher temperatures. On those days it is better to shorten your ride or save it for another time: check the AEMET weather warnings before you go. Wind also varies a lot from one area to another, so adapt your route if it is blowing hard.
Hire your bike in Costa Adeje
If you want an early start, pick up your bike at our shop in Costa Adeje the day before or, if you hire for 3 days or more, we deliver it to your hotel. Want the climbs to feel easier? Try an e-bike.
Check availability and book your bike online →