Finding Bliss in Getting Lost in Tenerife – Maybe you’ve already seen everything the Canary Islands has to offer, or maybe you just want to experience something different on your next vacation. Tenerife is the largest and most inhabited of the Canary Islands – while that may sound like the typical vacation destination, Masca (the epitome of “lost village”) is less populated, incredibly remote, and beyond picturesque. It’s in the western region of Tenerife just to the north of Puerto de Santiago. Masca is located high above a steep gorge and is surrounded by beautiful palms and pines.
There was a time that the only way you could get to Masca was on a donkey. But today, especially during tourist season, buses full of visitors flock the streets of this beautiful village. A mere 30 or so years ago saw the first road ever constructed to Masca allowing visitors, but also allowing electricity and running water into the village. The locals also built a tiny museum at the top of a steep hill. The terrain is steep and rocky, and the homes make use of these natural surroundings – some homes are on the rocky ridges while others are built directly into the sides of hills.
The best way to experience Masca is on foot. The best path to see all there is to see goes from the center of the village, down the steep, rocky gorge, and down and out to the ocean. It’s about a five-mile walk and it takes a person of average abilities about two hours to reach the sea. There are signs throughout the path to show you the way.
There’s no skimping on the luxury, even in a small village like Masca. There are a couple luxury accommodations perfect for even the most discerning of tastes. The five-star Melia Hacienda is an adults-only hotel within a nearby nature reserve. The Teno Mountains provide the perfect complement to the stunning Atlantic views. This hotel is especially perfect for golfers – the Ballesteros-designed Buenavista Golf Course is located onsite.
Have you ever wanted to just get lost in a destination? You’ll be happy you discovered Masca on Tenerife.
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