Masca

Masca sits in the Teno massif at the northwest tip of Tenerife, about 17 kilometres from Buenavista del Norte and at roughly 680 metres altitude, within the Teno Rural Park. It has a long reputation as a pirate hideout. The village is considered the best surviving example of rural Canarian architecture, though most of its buildings are not especially old — many were destroyed in a major forest fire in July 2007, which also stripped the surrounding vegetation.

The village has a parish church dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception, an ethnographic museum, and a nature centre. Despite a devastating fire in 2007, the traditional architecture that survived — or was rebuilt — still represents the finest rural Canarian vernacular on the islands. Deep ravines and coastal cliffs frame the settlement on all sides, and small shops, bars, and restaurants serve visitors along the main street.

A good hiking option is to arrive by bus and walk out northeast via the Cumbres de Bolico trail, Risco Verde, and Santiago del Teide. By car from Santiago del Teide, the steep, narrow mountain road TF-436 takes around 30 minutes. Parking in the village itself is very limited.

To reach Masca by public transport, take bus Línea 325 to Santiago del Teide, then microbus 355 toward Buenavista del Norte. Evening buses back can fill up completely — board one stop before the main Masca stop to secure a seat. Taxis from Los Gigantes to Masca cost significantly more than the bus.

A boat service also runs from Los Gigantes to the base of the Masca valley at the sea, combinable with a longer trip. All restaurants in Masca close by 18:30 at the latest.