Parque Rural de Teno, Nature reserve in El Tanque, Spain.
Parque Rural de Teno is a nature reserve in northwestern Tenerife that spans approximately 8,000 hectares of diverse terrain. The landscape features steep cliffs, deep valleys, and dense laurel forests distributed across different elevation zones.
The park contains traces of ancient settlements that date back centuries, when early inhabitants first established themselves in its fertile valleys. These early communities shaped the patterns of land use that remain visible in the landscape today.
Villages such as El Palmar and Teno Alto are home to residents who maintain traditional farming methods as part of their daily lives. The production of regional crops like potatoes and cheese reflects the agricultural character of these mountain communities.
The terrain is demanding and requires proper hiking equipment and good physical fitness for safe navigation. Checking weather conditions and local access updates before visiting is essential, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
The Cruz de Gala peak rises above 1,300 meters and offers sightings of rare plant species such as Euphorbia atropurpurea. Endemic laurel pigeons also inhabit this region, existing naturally nowhere else in the world.
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