From Los Brecitos to Cascada de la Fondada and Hoyo Verde

An insight into the hike:

The hike starts at Mirador de Los Brecitos with a broad view into Caldera de Taburiente. Yellow-and-white PR LP 13 initially leads gently towards the campsite. Huge Canary pines provide shade, while wooden bridges cross streams and small ravines. Around Lomo de Tenerra and Mirador de Lomo del Tagasaste, views repeatedly open towards Pico Bejenado, Roque Idafe and the steep caldera walls.

After Fuente de la Mula and Barranco del Risco Liso, an optional detour visits a petroglyph site. The main path then crosses Barranco de Bombas de Agua and descends below Casas de Taburiente towards Playa de Taburiente. At the junction before the broad streambed, PR LP 13 is left behind; signs for Hoyo Verde and Cascada de la Fondada introduce the much steeper section.

Tight bends climb beside Roque Huso. A narrow ridge path is partly protected by railings and chains and provides deep views towards Playa de Taburiente. At Mirador de Cascada de la Fondada, the slender waterfall drops roughly one hundred metres down the opposite wall. Its volume varies greatly with season and rainfall, but its position in the immense basin remains impressive even with little water.

The trail continues through pine forest, natural rock steps and a gully to Pinar de Siete Fuentes. Above the trees, it traverses exposed ground at the foot of the caldera walls to Mirador Hoyo Verde. The deeply cut ravine rises towards Roque de los Muchachos, with cascades and small pools marking its spring area. Return by the same route; the sustained climb back to Los Brecitos makes the day particularly demanding.

The 16.3 kilometres and roughly 1,360 metres in both directions require a very early start and stable conditions. Exposed sections are unsuitable in rain or strong wind, and watercourses may become dangerous rapidly after rainfall. Access to Los Brecitos is regulated and must be arranged beforehand. Ample water, sturdy footwear and reserves for the return are essential. Sunhikes provides current national-park advice, closures and the GPS track.