Königsetappe Teide

The first 35 km are uphill, with slopes of up to 24% in the villages. At Aguamanca there is a stunning almond blossom, and then you leave civilization, first riding through a cloud layer and then above it through ancient pine forests. Entering the Teide National Park, the vegetation changes to treeless and takes on the character of a high plateau. Partly lunar landscape. Further ascent to the observatory at 2350 m. Then a partly rapid descent back into the pine forests and continuing along a mountain ridge at 2000 m altitude. Brilliant views to the right and left over the sea of clouds. Here, as on the plateau, wonderful high-altitude sunshine. The other islands rise through the cloud layer, creating a feeling of flying. Moderate descent to Esperanza, with a fantastic view of the Anaga Mountains with La Laguna in the foreground and Santa Cruz with freighters anchored offshore. Continuing over a mountain ridge to AguaGarcia and then again through a vineyard landscape to San Antonio. There a very steep descent. The drainage grates across the road are real bike traps. A jump is recommended. Moderate ride out via La Orotava to Los Realejos. A perfect day comes to an end.