Description
Chío is located on the southwest slopes of Tenerife’s forested peaks, at an altitude of 1600 m, which gives it a unique vantage point from which to view the summit.
From here you can take in spectacular views of Pico Viejo and Mount Teide, together with other smaller, darker-coloured volcanoes, such as Montaña Reventada and Montaña Sámara.
The extensive and thriving Canary Island pine forest is the dominant natural feature in this area. The extreme climate resulting from the altitude and the relatively young rocky terrain are no obstacle to the spread of these trees. On the contrary, the pine tree breaks up the soil with its powerful roots, paving the way for other forms of life, such as corazoncillo (Lotus campylocladus), tagasaste (Cytisus proliferus), tomillo (Micromeria hyssopifolia) and chahorra (Sideritis canariensis).
Local fauna includes birds such as the great spotted woodpecker and the blue chaffinch, as well as the Tenerife lizards that bask in the midday sun.
Tips
- Enjoy the local plant and animal life without disturbing it. Be curious but from a safe and respectful distance.
- Follow the rules and instructions on the signs to avoid disturbance to people and animals.
- Keep the environment clean and leave no litter behind. Rubbish and cigarette butts must be disposed of in the designated containers.
- Travel in small groups to keep noise pollution and the impact on the environment to a minimum.
- Use the water in the toilets and taps responsibly. Water is a scarce and precious commodity on our island.
