Cueva del Viento: Europe's Largest Lava Tube

Deep under the pine forests of the north-west runs a network of lava tubes that totals over 17 kilometres — the largest in Europe and among the longest on Earth. This is Cueva del Viento, a subterranean world older than the Teide eruptions that built the island's surface.

What makes it special

Formed around 27,000 years ago by lava flowing from the Pico Viejo volcano, the tube stretches for kilometres in multiple levels. It was one of the first sites where the unique Canary Island blind crickets were studied, and parts of it are still being explored. The geology connects directly to the island's volcanic story.

How to visit

Access is strictly by guided tour — the cave is a protected natural monument and the guided visits (in Spanish and English) must be booked in advance through the official visitor centre. Tours run in small groups with helmet, hard hat and torch provided, and involve some ducking and a few steps — wear sturdy shoes.

Practicalities

Cueva del Viento sits just outside Icod, making it a natural pairing with the dragon tree and Garachico. Book ahead in summer and high season — tours sell out. The temperature underground stays around 16°C all year, so it is a welcome retreat from the summer heat of the coast.

A day in the north-west

Combine the cave with Icod's old town, Garachico's pools and a wine tasting for one of the best day trips on the island — a proper contrast to the beaches of the south.