Masca Village & the Masca Gorge

Masca sits wedged into the Teno mountains in the northwest of Tenerife, reachable by a famously winding mountain road. For decades it's been known for the Masca Gorge hike — a route that descends through the ravine down to a small cove, from which hikers used to be picked up by boat.

Access to the gorge trail has been restricted and permit-based at various points in recent years due to rockfall risk and overcrowding, so check current status before planning a hike specifically around it. Even without hiking the gorge, the village itself and the drive there are worth the trip for the views alone.

• ✓The mountain road to Masca has tight hairpin bends — not ideal if you're prone to car sickness.
• ✓The village has a handful of small restaurants with terrace views over the gorge.
• ✓If you plan to hike the gorge trail, check the current permit and access requirements locally before you go, as rules change.
• ✓Arrive early or late in the day to avoid tour-bus crowds in the village itself.