The route known as Siete Cañadas (seven glens) is a wonderful way of discovering the mysteries of the Teide National Park. Part of the former Chasna route that joined the Valle de la Orotava to the south of the island, this former cattle track, which was used from the time of the Guanches (ancient pre-Hispanic inhabitants of Tenerife), is a pleasant walk around the base of the southern wall of the Circo de las Cañadas, a deep sunken crater on which the current El Teide volcanic building has been constructed.

The route proposed by VisitaCanarias.Com begins in the Visitor Centre of the National Park and culminates at the Teide National Parador (inn). Both points are served by a guagua bus stop. The route is just over 17 kilometres and is practically flat. It is an average of 2,100 metres above sea level, reaching higher than the clouds that brush the island's hillsides.

The trail begins on the path that runs to the left of the TF-21, just in front of the National Park Visitor Centre. It is well signposted so it is almost impossible to get lost. However, it is wise to keep to the path and pay attention to the signs found on either side of the track. The route, which is predominately flat, passes through the edge of the Circo de las Cañadas so it is necessary to walk along the base of the cliffs to reach your destination. Overflowing volcanoes, fields of laplli (small volcanic rocks) and narrow passageways between the wall and the 'malpaís' (roughly meaning 'badlands', a term used in the Canaries to describe the irregular surface of the lava fields) combine to create a landscape, at times somewhat apocalyptic in aspect, presided over at most points by the majestic Teide.      

The trail continues towards the east, rising up to Guajara. A winding path climbs up the Guajara mountain pass and acts as an access point to the slope leading down to the south of Tenerife. Here you should go straight on, continuing along the flat ground and bypassing the upward climb. The trail then begins to get narrower between the walls of lava and zigzags downwards until you reach the Parador. Finally, a visit to the famous Roques de García and a stay in the mountain hotel provide a perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

Trail guide:

Km 0,0: Teide National Park Visitor Centre. Take the route that starts to the left of the road. 200 metres along, there is a path that forks to the left. Continue on the right-hand path and look for the north side of the Circo de Las Cañadas.
 
Km 5.0. Cañada de Diego Hernández. The path crosses a large white stony plain. On the right-hand side, you can see small stone pits that were used by the shepherds to shelter. Some of these have been used since pre-Hispanic times. 

Km. 6.9. Diego Hernández Cave. At the bottom of the Circo wall there is a small cave that was use as a refuge by the last shepherd of Las Cañadas del Teide, Diego Hernández. It is still used as a resting place by walkers. 

Km. 8.2. Cañada de la Angostura. A small plain of volcanic ashes gives way to a narrow gorge that is just over a kilometre long.

Km. 13.5. Cañada del Montón de Trigo. The landscape opens out again. On the left-hand side you can see the mountain path that leads to the Guajara mountain pass. Go straight on and look for the Cañada del Capricho. This is a good place to fill up on water and admire some beautiful geological formations. 

Km. 17.0. Parador de Turismo. After a short rest at the Cañada del Capricho, you will arrive at the Las Cañadas National Parador, the final destination for this route. Just over 200 metres from here are the famous rock formations known as the Roques de García.
  
Practical details
Distance: 17 kilometres
Time: 4 hours.
Important information: This route is highly exposed to the sun so it is a good idea to take a hat and sun protection lotion. Water is available at the departure and destination points and, occasionally, at the Cañada del Capricho (km. 14). There may be snow in winter.
Access: TITSA (public transport)
From La Orotava: bus line 348
From Playa de Las Américas: bus line 342
National Park telephone number: (+34) 922 29 01 29