Trails

Hiking is a relaxing activity that brings those who practise it closer to the natural environment and the ethnographic and heritage elements that characterise an area. The trails are often traditional communication routes, local roads, royal cattle tracks, etc. Their use is currently regulated and, in the case of Anaga, they are signposted to clearly indicate their difficulty, type of route, etc.

Las Mercedes provides access to the Anaga Rural Park, a protected area that includes several Integral Nature Reserves such as Pijaral, Ijuana and Los Roques de Anaga. Declared a Biosphere Reserve, it has areas of special protection for birds, as well as Monte de Aguirre, an ancient laurel forest with restricted access. The Visitor Centre at Cruz del Carmen provides information, interpretation and dissemination services to visitors. In addition to personalised attention, it offers audiovisual presentations and permanent exhibitions.

The municipality has a trail that has been awarded the ADEAC 2014 blue label, which is currently undergoing improvements.

Some recommendations for hiking include always checking for possible weather alerts, finding out about the condition of the route, trying to walk with someone else, or letting friends or family know where you are going. As the terrain is sometimes rugged, fog is common, so it is advisable to wear appropriate clothing. And you can always take advantage of your visit to sample local products!