The island of Tenerife has corners full of magic and charm that enchant any tourist. One of them is the hamlet of Masca and its spectacular ravine. Although it is difficult to access, it is really worth taking the trip.
Masca is located northwest of Tenerife and immersed in the mountains of the Parque Rural de Teno. The Masca farmhouse belongs to the municipality of Buenavista del Norte and is inhabited by about 100 people who manage rural houses, bars, restaurants and craft shops.
The Teno Rural Park, at the northwestern end of the island, is made up of the municipalities of Buenavista del Norte, El Tanque, Los Silos and Santiago del Teide. It occupies more than 8,000 hectares that concentrate some of the most beautiful natural settings in Tenerife. It is an area of great landscape, ecological and cultural value, hence it was declared a protected area.
What to do in Masca?
Doing the hiking route through the Barranco de Masca is the main attraction of this town. However, touring its hamlet is also very attractive, since it is about learning about the history and culture of the town. Masca is a faithful example of the architecture typical of the Canary Islands in times of yore. For this reason, one of the things you cannot stop doing is walking the steep streets of the town.
In addition, the constructions are well oriented according to the climate and harmoniously integrated with the landscape. Added to this are the crop terraces and the serenity of its inhabitants, which make walking through Masca an authentic experience.
Square and Hermitage of the Immaculate Conception
The Plaza de Masca is famous for its imposing Laurel de Indias, located in the central part and a source of shade and protection. Next to it is the Hermitage of the Immaculate Conception, easily recognizable thanks to its striking façade of volcanic stones and tea wood. Built in the 18th century, this simple and beautiful temple is dedicated, as you may have already deduced, to the Immaculate Conception.
Masca Ethnographic Museum
The Masca Ethnographic Museum is located in a small building where the Guanche school used to function. In this space you will find an interesting exhibition that tells what the lifestyle of the inhabitants of Masca was like until just a few decades ago. The exhibition includes elements of everyday life, photographs, explanatory panels and reproductions that talk about it. Therefore, if you want to know in depth the history of this farmhouse, you know where to go.
Masca Ravine
The hiking route to the Barranco de Masca is one of the busiest in Tenerife. Hence, making the visit requires prior planning, since access to the ravine is limited to a certain number of daily visits. This became necessary due to the enormous number of visitors who wanted to venture on this journey. Crowds were frequent and the conservation of this natural space was in danger, which is why today it is necessary to reserve a place in advance.
Source: Viajerosocultos