Nestled amidst the rugged landscape of Tenerife, one of the most diverse and vibrant islands of the Canary archipelago, lies the enchanting village of Masca. An extraordinary amalgamation of natural splendor, traditional architecture, and intriguing history, this hidden gem exudes a charm that is as beguiling as it is captivating.
Our journey to Masca was an experience in itself – a series of twists and turns through emerald valleys and stark mountains, interspersed with glimpses of the cerulean ocean. Each hairpin bend brought with it a surge of adrenaline and a vista more stunning than the last, culminating in the breath-taking sight of the village itself, clinging precariously to the hillside.
The natural beauty of Masca is, undoubtedly, its crowning glory. Surrounded by majestic mountains, the village serves as the gateway to the awe-inspiring Masca Gorge, a natural wonder that enchants visitors with its towering cliffs, verdant vegetation, and tranquil streams.
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The Road to Masca from Mirador La Cruz de Hilda
Mirador La Cruz de Hilda is an enchanting viewpoint located in the northern part of Tenerife. It offers breathtaking views of the coastal villages, deep ravines, and majestic ocean beyond. One of the popular activities is a trek from this viewpoint down to the picturesque village of Masca.
The trek is not for the faint-hearted as it involves a challenging descent from the viewpoint. Beginning at Mirador La Cruz de Hilda, it typically takes about 45 minutes to reach the village of Masca, depending on your pace. The trail is approximately 1.5 km long with a vertical drop of around 150 meters, making it quite steep and strenuous.
The route takes you through dense laurel forests and past terraced farmlands, following a well-marked path. The dramatic scenery changes as you descend, offering a breathtaking juxtaposition of towering peaks and deep valleys. You’ll encounter lush vegetation, ancient trees, unique rock formations, and possibly even some wildlife.
As you approach Masca, the landscape opens up to reveal the village perched on the mountainside, with its traditional white houses contrasting with the green surroundings and rugged cliffs. The descent ends in the heart of Masca, where you can reward your efforts with a refreshing drink or local delicacies at one of the village’s quaint restaurants.
Make sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes, carry enough water and snacks, and apply plenty of sunscreen as the sun can be quite intense. It is also advisable to check the weather conditions before setting out as the path can become slippery and dangerous during rainy weather.
The descent from Mirador La Cruz de Hilda to Masca village is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering some of the most stunning views in Tenerife. It’s a must-do for adventure seekers and nature lovers visiting the island.
Take a Short Coffee Stop
Having just descended the windy mountain roads, you pull over in the tiny village of Masca, nestled in the rugged landscape of Tenerife’s Teno Massif. This is a corner of the Canary Islands where time seems to stand still, far from the hustle and bustle of the more frequented tourist locales.
As the morning sun filters through the dramatic peaks and palm trees, casting dappled shadows on the centuries-old houses, you step into a small coffee shop, its façade brimming with charm, coated in a rustic blend of white and rich browns.
You order a Cortado, the classic Spanish small cup of coffee with milk. As you wait for your drink, you can’t help but notice the selection of pastries on display – fresh, homemade, and utterly tempting. Yielding to the tantalizing view, you decide to indulge in a slice of ‘tarta de almendra,’ a local almond cake.
Taking your coffee and cake outside, you settle at a small table set on the cobblestone terrace. From here, the panoramic view of the lush, green valley, and the distant ocean is breathtaking. The terraced hillsides, the rough-hewn stone buildings, the sound of distant roosters crowing, it all paints a picturesque scene that’s worth more than a thousand postcards.
As you sip your coffee, its robust, flavorful taste is a perfect match for the sweet, nutty tarta. A gentle, cool breeze wafts through the air, carrying the sweet fragrance of the surrounding nature. It’s a magical moment, a tranquil breather from the demands of travel.
While you relax, you watch a group of hikers preparing for the trek down the gorge, their laughter carrying on the wind. The descent to the rocky beach of Masca Bay is a popular adventure, but not one to undertake lightly.
After finishing your coffee and saying your goodbyes, you get ready to continue your journey, feeling refreshed and invigorated. The brief stop at Masca village for a coffee and a dose of tranquility has been an unexpected highlight of your trip.
Have a Lunch in Masca Village
“Restaurante BLANKY. Casa Fidel” is a gem tucked away in the quaint village of Masca. Known for its spellbinding views and traditional architecture, Masca is also home to this culinary delight.
In all, a lunch in a traditional restaurant in Masca, Tenerife, would be a delightful gastronomic journey, allowing you to savor authentic Canarian flavors while immersed in the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.
When you first set foot in “Restaurante BLANKY. Casa Fidel,” you are met with a cozy, rustic ambiance that perfectly mirrors the idyllic charm of its surrounding village. The restaurant’s decor seamlessly merges traditional elements with a touch of contemporary design, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and elegant.
The food at the restaurant is nothing short of sublime. With a menu that pays homage to traditional Spanish and Canarian cuisine, every dish is a reflection of the rich culinary heritage of the region. Their use of locally sourced ingredients guarantees freshness, while their skilled chefs adeptly bring out the flavors in each dish.
The standout dish for many is their cod with onions, which is a traditional staple in Canarian cuisine. Cooked slowly to perfection, the fish is tender and bursting with flavors, perfectly complimented by the accompanying Canarian potatoes and mojo sauces. Meatballs is more to your liking. Their fresh grilled fish, caught from the local waters, is a must-try.
Visiting Masca Village in Tenerife is akin to stepping into a picturesque tale of the past. Surrounded by the dramatic cliffs and enveloped in a lush green blanket of endemic flora, the village takes one on a fascinating journey filled with wonder, tranquility, and nature’s abundant beauty. This hidden gem, once a pirate hideout, now offers a respite from the urban bustle, presenting its visitors with a quaint slice of traditional Canarian life.
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