Tenerife is more than just a tourist destination; it’s an island filled with breathtaking landscapes, winding roads, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. But there’s a special way to explore it that adds a dose of adrenaline and style to your journey: driving a Ford Mustang convertible. In this blog entry, I’ll take you through unique experiences behind the wheel of a Mustang, showing you how this iconic car transforms a simple drive into an unforgettable adventure.
The Roar of the Engine: Connecting with the Island
From the moment you turn the key or press the start button, the Mustang comes to life with a deep, powerful roar that makes you feel instantly connected to the machine. This sound isn’t just the hum of an engine; it’s the echo of decades of automotive history, of races and long roads. In Tenerife, where the landscape changes every few miles, this roar becomes the perfect soundtrack for your journey.
A History of Power and Style:
The Ford Mustang is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of freedom, power, and style. Since its launch in 1964, the Mustang has been a cultural icon, featured in films, songs, and in the imagination of car lovers everywhere. Driving a Mustang in Tenerife isn’t just a luxury experience; it’s a trip back in time, where every mile covered evokes the history of this legendary car. Over the years, the Mustang has evolved, but it’s always retained its essence: a car designed to deliver thrilling drives and an unparalleled sense of freedom.
Historical Context:
Tenerife, with its blend of European and African influences, its history of colonisation, and its rich Guanche culture, is the perfect setting for a car with such a rich history. Imagine driving along the same roads that, centuries ago, were travelled by traders, adventurers, and Guanches in search of new horizons—now, doing it behind the wheel of a Mustang, a car that symbolises the conquest of freedom and the spirit of adventure.
South Tenerife Route: From Los Cristianos to El Médano
Route Description:
The south of Tenerife is known for its sunny weather, golden beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. But beyond the tourist areas, there are routes that offer a truly unique driving experience. One of the most spectacular is the drive from Los Cristianos to El Médano, along the coastal TF-1 road.
Driving Experience:
As you leave Los Cristianos, the Mustang glides smoothly along the road, with the sun shining brightly over the ocean. With the roof down, the warm Atlantic air brushes against your face, and the horizon stretches out before you. As you drive on, golden beaches and hidden coves line the route, each one inviting you to stop and soak in the surroundings.
The Mustang handles each curve with precision, and soon you realise this car was made for roads like these: wide, smooth, and with views that take your breath away. The route leads you to El Médano, a place famous for its perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, but also for its laid-back, bohemian vibe. Here, you can park the Mustang right by the beach, get out, and walk on the sand, feeling the connection between the car and the environment.
Historical Context:
El Médano has long been a refuge for adventurers. In the past, this small fishing village was a meeting point for those navigating the Atlantic waters, and today, it continues to attract thrill-seekers. Driving here in a Mustang connects you to that spirit of exploration, reminding you that adventure isn’t just about the destination, but about how you get there.
Climbing Mount Teide: A Sublime Experience
Route Description:
No visit to Tenerife is complete without a trip to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and a place of stunning natural beauty. But when you make this ascent behind the wheel of a Mustang convertible, the experience becomes something truly sublime.
Driving Experience:
The road to Teide, the TF-21, is famous for its sharp bends and steady climb, taking you from sea level to over 2,000 metres above. Driving a Mustang on this road is an exercise in precision and control, as you feel the car respond to every turn with power and grace, making the drive an absolute pleasure.
As you climb, the landscape changes dramatically. Pine forests give way to a more barren terrain, and soon you find yourself surrounded by a volcanic landscape that looks like something from another planet. With the Mustang’s roof down, you feel the crisp mountain air and the warmth of the sun, as the car glides smoothly towards the summit.
Reaching Teide is like arriving at the top of the world. From here, the views are simply spectacular, with the Teide crater on one side and the vast Atlantic Ocean on the other. This is a place to stop, take a deep breath, and appreciate the immensity of nature, all while your Mustang rests beside you, ready to take you back down.
Historical Context:
Mount Teide has been a sacred place for the Guanches, Tenerife’s original inhabitants. They considered the volcano to be the dwelling place of the gods, and its summit was a place of worship and reverence. Today, Teide remains a place of awe and wonder, not just for its beauty, but for its history. Driving up here in a Mustang is a modern way to pay homage to this majestic volcano, blending tradition with technology in an unforgettable experience.
Driving Along La Esperanza Road: A Journey Through Time
Route Description:
La Esperanza Road, or TF-24, is one of Tenerife’s most beautiful and lesser-known routes. This road cuts through dense, green forests and offers stunning views of both Mount Teide and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a place where the past and present meet, and where every mile driven takes you deeper into the island’s history.
Driving Experience:
The Mustang comes to life on La Esperanza Road, handling each bend with agility and delivering a smooth, fluid drive. As you progress, you find yourself immersed in a forest of Canarian pines, where sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a dance of shadows on the road. This is a place to enjoy the sound of the engine, the silence of nature, and the feeling of being completely connected to your surroundings.
La Esperanza Road is known for its viewpoints, where you can stop and take in the views. From here, you can see Mount Teide rising majestically in the distance, with the ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and where you can reflect on Tenerife’s rich history while enjoying the power and style of the Mustang.
Historical Context:
La Esperanza Road gets its name from the town of La Esperanza, which lies at the start of the route. This path has been used for centuries, first by the Guanches and later by Spanish settlers, as a route to cross the island. Today, it remains a less-travelled road, making it perfect for those seeking a more peaceful and authentic experience. Driving a Mustang along this road is a way to connect with Tenerife’s history, while enjoying a drive that is both thrilling and relaxing.
Exploring North Tenerife: From Icod de los Vinos to La Laguna
Route Description:
The north of Tenerife is a region of contrasts, where green mountains meet the Atlantic Ocean, and where each town has its own history and charm. Driving from Icod de los Vinos to La Laguna is a journey through the cultural heart of the island, where every bend reveals something new and fascinating.
Driving Experience:
The route begins in Icod de los Vinos, a town known for its ancient dragon tree, one of the oldest trees in Tenerife. From here, the road takes you through rural landscapes, where banana plantations and vineyards stretch out on either side of the road. The Mustang glides smoothly along the road, as you enjoy the views of the mountains to the east and the ocean to the west.
As you approach La Laguna, Tenerife’s old capital, the road becomes more winding, offering spectacular views of the valleys and the ocean. The Mustang handles these twists and turns effortlessly, making the drive both exciting and enjoyable. La Laguna, with its historic streets and beautiful squares, is a perfect place to end your journey, offering a blend of culture, history, and modern life.
Conclusion:
Exploring Tenerife in a Mustang convertible is more than just a drive; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, nature, and culture of an island full of surprises. Each route offers something unique, whether it’s the majestic ascent to Mount Teide, the dramatic coastal landscapes of the north, or the serene beauty of La Esperanza Road. Drive with freedom, savour every moment, and let the Mustang take you on an adventure you’ll remember forever.
