How to Explore Corona Forestal Natural Park
Index
Corona Forestal Natural Park
If you are looking for a unique experience in Tenerife, the Corona Forestal Natural Park is your best ally. This green lung of the island welcomes you with endless trails, landscapes covered with laurel forest and breathtaking views. Located just south of the imposing Teide National Park, the Forest Crown envelops the mountain and forms a natural crown that you can discover at your own pace.
From the moment you arrive, you will feel the calm and fresh energy of the Canarian forest. Here, you set the pace yourself: you can go at your own pace, stop to listen to the birds singing, or simply let the scent of pine accompany your steps. The Corona Forestal Natural Park is perfect for visitors of all ages, whether traveling as a couple, with friends, with family or even just in search of peace.
This paradise of nature occupies nearly 46,000 hectares, making it the largest protected area in Tenerife. Don’t worry about the weather: there is always a route or a corner to discover, whether you are a hiking lover or just looking for a quiet walk away from the hustle and bustle. Here, every moment counts and every corner surprises.
So, whether you’ve just landed on the island or you’re a frequent lover of Tenerife, get ready to immerse yourself in the Corona Forestal Natural Park. Discover how to live it, walk around it and feel like a true Tenerife, with the best practical advice, details about its fauna and flora, and recommendations for nearby routes and experiences. Adventure awaits!
History and formation of the Corona Forestal Natural Park
It’s not enough to walk through a spectacular place if you don’t know its history, right? The Corona Forestal Natural Park is where it is for unique reasons that will fascinate you. This area began to form millions of years ago, when volcanic eruptions gave life to the silhouette of Mount Teide and its surroundings, transforming the landscape and creating an environment that is as special as it is diverse.
The creation of the park as a protected area dates back to 1984, when the Government of the Canary Islands wanted to preserve the balance and beauty of this natural treasure. In fact, it is called “Corona Forestal” because its lush forests surround Mount Teide like a true green crown, covering much of the centre of the island and connecting volcanic landscapes with fascinating forest areas.
Long before it was a protected area, this forest served as a source of resources for local communities: timber, water, grazing and even cultivated areas. Now, you will notice the harmony between environmental protection and rural life; From the trail you can see old water canals, shepherds’ footprints and, from time to time, some small traditional dwellings.
Best of all, the Corona Forestal Natural Park is still alive and changing. Every year actions are carried out to conserve it and promote responsible tourism, always thinking about you and future generations. So, as you walk along its routes and breathe fresh air, think about the story that accompanies you: you are part of a journey that connects past, present, and future.
Flora and fauna: A unique ecosystem
One of the great attractions of the Corona Forestal Natural Park is that here you will not only see trees; You will come into contact with a veritable mosaic of wildlife. As you walk along its paths you will discover large expanses of Canarian pines, which form dense and shady forests, perfect for escaping the sun and relaxing. The Canarian pine is the main protagonist: fire-resistant, with long leaves and capable of surviving at very high altitudes.
But the Corona Forestal Natural Park is much more. In the wettest areas, the laurel forest appears, that forest of evergreens and an almost magical atmosphere, where mosses and ferns carpet the paths and the sun’s rays come in like sparkles. In addition to trees, pay attention to detail: you will see white brooms, rockroses, wallflowers and even tajinastes in bloom depending on the time of year.
And the animals? The wildlife here is so varied that you never know what to expect. It’s easy to come across rabbits, lizards, and with a bit of luck, hear the gentle fluttering of endemic birds like the blue finch or the great spotted woodpecker. The trails and viewpoints are perfect for bird watching, so bring your binoculars.
This entire ecosystem is maintained thanks to the care and respect of visitors. At each step you will discover signs that remind you of the importance of conserving the environment, as well as information about protected species. For all these reasons, exploring the Corona Forestal Natural Park is an opportunity to learn, enjoy and connect with the biodiversity of Tenerife in a simple and special way.
Hiking activities and recommended routes
Ready to tour the Corona Forestal Natural Park with your own boots (or sneakers)? Hiking is king here, and it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert: there are routes for all tastes and levels. The park has a network of marked trails that will help you explore everything from short one-hour walks to very long crossings between forests and viewpoints.
If you’re looking for something iconic, the circular trail that surrounds Teide National Park is an excellent option. This path allows you to appreciate the difference between the volcanic landscapes and the cool forests of the Corona Forestal Natural Park, all in a single day. For the more adventurous, the descent route to La Orotava will surprise you with views of the Valley and the sea.
Many visitors enjoy the popular path between Los Realejos and Vilaflor, crossing pine forest areas and laurel forest areas. If you are traveling with your family, you can opt for gentle trails from El Portillo or the recreational area of Las Lajas, ideal for picnics and short walks under the shade of the trees.
Don’t forget that the Corona Forestal Natural Park is prepared for sustainable tourism: there are information panels, rest areas and observation points so you don’t miss anything. Before leaving, find out about the level of difficulty, duration and weather, and always carry water, sunscreen and light food. Touring the park on foot is the best way to connect with Tenerife’s nature and discover corners that you will never forget.
Responsible Tourism: Rules and Tips for Visitors
Visiting the Corona Forestal Natural Park is a privilege, and the best way to enjoy it is by being responsible with the environment and the people who take care of it. Here are some simple tips to make your experience unforgettable and eco-friendly.
Respect the trails and do not leave the marked routes; This way you protect almost invisible plants and animals.
Don’t leave waste: take a bag with you to collect your rubbish and make sure that everything you bring with you, comes back with you.
Take care of the silence and tranquility of the forest. The sounds of nature are part of the experience.
If you travel with pets, always keep them under control and remove their waste to avoid damage to the environment.
It is forbidden to make fires throughout the Corona Forestal Natural Park. If you want to prepare food, use recreational areas with controlled barbecues.
Enjoy the birds and animals without disturbing them or trying to catch them. Photography and observation are enough to take you unforgettable memories.
The protection of the park depends on everyone. Keep in mind the informative signs, follow the recommendations of the guards and take advantage of your visit to learn about flora and fauna. Responsible tourism is what keeps the Corona Forestal Natural Park alive for you and for those who come after you.
Accessibility and how to get there from hotels in Tenerife
One of the advantages of staying in Tenerife is that you will always be close to an entrance to the Corona Forestal Natural Park. Most hotels in the north and south areas offer information and organized excursions to the park, although you can also encourage yourself to get there on your own.
If you are staying in the north of the island, for example in Puerto de la Cruz or La Orotava, access is easy: just take the TF-21 road in the direction of Teide and, in just over half an hour, you will be surrounded by forests and viewpoints. For those in the south, the route from Vilaflor is just as practical; Transfers and excursions are organized from the main hotels almost daily.
Prefer to explore the park at your leisure? You can rent a car and enjoy a personalized route: signage is clear and there are parking areas at key points. Many tour companies offer guided tours so you can make the most of every corner, learning about history, flora and fauna while enjoying the outdoors.
Even if you travel by public transport, guaguas (buses) connect the main towns with access to the Corona Forestal Natural Park. Ask your hotel for schedules and routes, and you will receive updated information to start your visit without worries. For all these reasons, the park is accessible to all travelers, whether they come as a family, in a group or alone.
Cultural experiences and local gastronomy near the park
The adventure in the Corona Forestal Natural Park does not end when you leave the forest. The nearby towns and cities offer a cultural and gastronomic wealth that is worth discovering. In places like La Orotava, Vilaflor or El Sauzal, restaurants, wineries and markets await you where you can try the best of Tenerife’s cuisine.
Surrounding the park, many hotels organize visits to local wineries, where wine tastings and tastings of Canarian cheese, wrinkled potatoes and mojos are prepared. If you have a break after your hiking route, enjoy a meal with views of the Orotava Valley or the Güímar ravine and savor the fresh ingredients grown on the island.
Don’t miss the popular festivals and traditions. Throughout the year, villages near the Corona Forestal Natural Park hold fairs, dances, pilgrimages and craft markets. All of this adds an authentic touch to your trip and allows you to get to know the local culture in its purest form.
Finally, take the opportunity to buy fair trade products and local crafts: in addition to supporting the rural economy, you will have unique memories of your visit. Discover the guachinches, those family restaurants where good food and Tenerife hospitality await you with open arms. Thus, your experience in the Corona Forestal Natural Park will be complete and full of flavor.
Conclusion
Exploring the Corona Forestal Natural Park in Tenerife is much more than just an excursion: it is the opportunity to experience the island from the inside, in direct contact with the beauty and soul of its surroundings. Every corner invites you to disconnect, relax and discover the natural diversity, history and hospitality of the Canary Islands.
The park’s versatility makes it the perfect destination for both adventurers and easy-going travelers. From demanding trails to easy walks, from cultural experiences to local cuisine, visiting the Corona Forestal Natural Park is one of those experiences that you will always want to repeat. Staying in Tenerife means being close to this paradise, and every tip shared in this article will help you make the most of it.
So pack your backpack, choose your route and let the Corona Forestal Natural Park surprise you. Tenerife awaits you with open arms and this forest will undoubtedly be one of the best memories of your visit.