In Puerto la Madera, prehistoric traces and a varied coastal landscape take center stage. The protected Juan Fernández-La Fuentecilla zone brings together archaeological remains, springs, native vegetation, and life at the tidal shoreline. The El Pris–Mesa del Mar coastal trail is another activity to consider. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first weigh up whether you are most interested in cultural heritage, nature, or a short walk by the sea.

Prehistoric Traces at Juan Fernández-La Fuentecilla

The Juan Fernández-La Fuentecilla archaeological zone is protected as a Site of Cultural Interest in the Canary Islands. Its caves served as dwellings or burial niches for the island’s prehistoric population. The coastal habitat of Tacoronte may have been a seasonal living area, associated with herding activities and the gathering of marine resources. These different uses give the area a history linked both to life on land and to the resources of the sea.

The surviving structural remains also tell us about everyday life in the past: west of the hacienda are washing places made from worked basalt blocks, which are of ethnographic interest. The place name points to another layer of history. Puerto de la Madera derives its name from the coastal site’s use in the 16th century as a loading point for timber from the Agua García forest. The name’s history thus extends beyond the prehistoric remains of the archaeological zone.

Springs, Cliffs, and the Tidal Landscape

The protected zone lies along a coastal cliff section facing northwest. Its average elevation is about 80 to 100 meters above sea level. The area is home to relatively well-preserved, floristically rich tabaibal-cardonal vegetation. This plant community is a distinctive part of the local landscape, adding a natural perspective to the archaeological remains.

La Fuentecilla has a narrow, steeply sloping course. Several springs emerge at different elevations and are among the area’s permanent natural features. The coast is also bordered by an extensive marine platform that is exposed at low tide. It supports abundant tidal-zone fauna and provides a habitat for seabirds. Together, the cliffs, springs, and tidal platform show how varied the landscape is within this relatively small area.

The El Pris–Mesa del Mar Coastal Trail

The El Pris–Mesa del Mar hiking trail is 900 meters long and follows a wide, easily walkable path. Its condition can change seasonally, so check the latest conditions before setting out. In Mesa del Mar, the route passes through a tunnel to the promenade by Las Arenas beach and continues to the coastal pool known as charco Sagrero, at the mouth of the Barranco de Guayonje.

Along the coastal trail, you will find a diverse selection of native plants typical of the Canary Islands’ coast. There is also a water gallery that was once used to supply the agricultural fields of Puerto de la Madera. The trail therefore offers not only coastal scenery, but also insights into local plant life and the historic water supply. Another viewpoint is Mirador Cruz de Juan Fernández, which offers panoramic views of Tenerife’s north coast and the Atlantic Ocean. On clear days, you can also see Mount Teide.

Getting There and Finding Your Way Around

TITSA bus route 023 serves Puerto de la Madera on the route between Tacoronte and El Pris. As schedules may change, check the service for your planned travel date. Playa de las Arenas, a black-sand beach in Mesa del Mar, is nearby. A small tunnel provides access to the beach; confirm that access is currently open before your visit.

For your trip planning, you can choose between different focuses: the archaeological zone offers insights into prehistoric use and protected nature, while the El Pris–Mesa del Mar trail highlights coastal flora, historic infrastructure, and a viewpoint.

Discover more destinations: Granadilla De Abona, Icod De Los Vinos, La Matanza De Acentejo, Fasnia, Buen Paso, San Miguel, Los Silos, Santiago Del Teide

For the main travel overview: Tenerife.