El Rio: Hiking, Climbing and Local History

Hiking, rock climbing and the history of the district each offer something different in El Río. The trail descriptions range from an approximately twelve-kilometre circular route through open countryside to a somewhat easier route along old, preserved paved paths. There is also a climbing sector, a masonry bridge and historic sites. When planning your trip, you can weigh up whether to set aside more time for trails, climbing or local history.

Hiking Trails with Different Profiles

The “Circular Villa de Arico - El Río” trail is approximately twelve kilometres long. It passes through more open landscapes and natural areas, stretching from the edge of Las Cañadas in the upper area down to the lower-lying coastline. Its length and broad sweep across the landscape give you an idea of what to expect from this route. Check local trail conditions before setting out.

A somewhat easier route leads from Plaza de los Condes de Santa María de Abona in Villa de Arico to the hamlet of El Río. It follows old, preserved paved paths. This route is therefore distinguished by its easier grading and paved surface, while the “Circular Villa de Arico - El Río” trail is notable for its approximate distance and range of landscapes. The Las Majadas–Pasajirón trail is considered especially interesting for its scenery and natural surroundings along the ravine. Here, too, check conditions before hiking.

Rock Climbing near El Río

The climbing routes in El Río are generally 25 to 30 metres long. Most focus on technical endurance climbing, with a few bouldering sections. There are about twenty routes in the Zona Zero sector. Its orientation means that sunny and shaded areas change throughout the day. Two different factors can therefore help you choose: route type and length on the one hand, and the changing sun and shade on the other.

The number of routes and conditions in the sector may change. Check the current situation and your equipment before climbing. Access to the climbing area first follows the narrow road beside the church for two kilometres, then continues along a dirt track and footpath to the reservoir. There is a small car park near a large iron gate. As road, access and parking conditions may change, check them before your visit.

Bridge, Waterworks and Church

The masonry bridge over the Barranco de El Río has three round-arched openings resting on the rock formations of the steep ravine. Its construction and the landscape come together in this structure. The Lavaderos de El Río are also among the district’s historic landmarks: this restored water infrastructure, built from local Chasnera stone, includes a basin, several channels, a water-drawing point and washing areas. The site was presented to the public in 2017. Check its current condition before visiting.

The church of San Bartolomé in El Río houses a fully executed polychrome sculpture of the patron saint, dating from 1691 and created by the carver Domingo de Campos. It also contains a 17th-century depiction of San Juan Bautista. The church’s expansion works were completed in 1754. The artworks and the building’s history offer different ways to explore the district’s past.

Festival Traditions and Regional Produce

The festival in honour of San Bartolomé was established in 1774 and is associated with 24 August. The festival in honour of Nuestra Señora de la O was established in 1778 and is associated with 18 December. The 2022 San Bartolomé festival programme included a guided tasting of wines with the Abona designation of origin, as well as a “Tapas y Vinos” event.

The 2024 programme for Nuestra Señora de la O also featured “Tapas y Vinos”, this time with products from the region, as well as a procession along Calle San Bartolomé. These programme details relate to the respective years and do not guarantee future events. If you would like to plan your trip around a festival, check the dates and programme for your travel year.

Discover more destinations: Buen Paso, San Miguel, Los Realejos, Icod De Los Vinos, Juan Fernández, El Rosario, Chamorga, Charco del Pino.

For the broader travel overview: Tenerife.