Lunar Landscape
Los Escurriales, popularly known as the ‘Lunar Landscape’, were sculpted by wind and water from volcanic rock, and their shapes resemble the surface of the moon. They were formed by a process of differential erosion of an outcrop of soft rock. Erosion over thousands of years gradually eroded them, giving rise to these formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’.
Two types of route: the short route and the long route
The long route starts from the Camino del Atajo, which forms part of the old Camino Real de Chasna, after leaving the main road once you have passed Vilaflor de Chasna. It is 12.5 km long and takes around 4 hours to complete.
To take the short route, drive along the forest track used for the long route. The only thing to bear in mind is that there are dates when it is closed due to the mouflon cull using firearms; for example, on 12 and 19 May this year. Check with the Tenerife Island Council before undertaking this route. It is 5 km long and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
The path has been used by Guanche shepherds since time immemorial.
At the start of the summer season, flocks of goats and sheep would make their way up to Las Cañadas del Teide to graze on the summer pastures. These transhumance practices continued over the years until the area was declared a National Park in 1954.
Two kilometres above this Lunar Landscape lies a protected area belonging to the Corona Forestal Natural Park.
Nature, the greatest artist
If you have any doubts, I advise you to take this route and see for yourself. The path winds its way up through natural Canary Island pine forests along cobbled paths dating back centuries.
The climb is well worth it, as you’ll be able to see the mountains of Gran Canaria floating above a sea of clouds.
