At approximately 990 m altitude, Pico del Inglés is one of the most visited viewpoints in the Anaga massif, classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. On clear days, the view extends over the entire Anaga peninsula, Santa Cruz, La Laguna and Teide. On exceptionally clear days, Gran Canaria can even be seen. When clouds accumulate below, the sea of clouds effect is striking.
The best time is early morning or late afternoon; mid-day clouds often cover the viewpoint. The final access road (TF-114, branching off from TF-12) is narrow and winding, drive slowly. There are no reliable restaurants on site (a kiosk may be open irregularly, often closed), bring water. For coffee or a meal, stop at Cruz del Carmen, on TF-12 before the TF-114 junction.
The phenomenon results from trade winds pushing humidity against Anaga's relief. Especially in summer, it often forms between 10am and 2pm, covering the coast with a white blanket while the viewpoint remains above, in the sun. Some days, clouds rise higher and cover everything: don't leave disappointed if that's the case, nature cannot be reserved.
Pico del Inglés is not the starting point for the Sendero de los Sentidos or the path to Chinamada: these two trailheads are located at Cruz del Carmen, a little further on TF-12. The Pijaral sector, with its primary forest, is accessed from Bailadero and requires authorization from the Cabildo. From the viewpoint itself, a network of trails connects to the Anaga massif, notably the PR-TF 2 between Taborno and Valleseco: inquire on site or with a Cabildo map before setting out.
The forest surrounding the viewpoint is a remnant of the laurisilva that covered the Mediterranean basin millions of years ago. It survived here thanks to the constant humidity brought by trade winds, a microclimate that deforestation has caused to disappear almost everywhere else in Europe.
Access via TF-114 (via TF-12), in the heart of the Anaga massif, northeast Tenerife. Free, open access 24/7. Car recommended, approximately 30 minutes from Santa Cruz, winding road at the end. TITSA bus possible but limited service, check line and timetables on titsa.com. Changeable weather, visibility can change within minutes. No disabled access.