A coastal route in Tenerife, set upon volcanic soil, provides not only breathtaking vistas but also culminates at one of the Island’s most iconic structures. This trail is known as the San Juanito trail, located in the town of Punta del Hidalgo (La Laguna).
The allure of this path is so significant that it ranks among the two within the entire Canary Islands to be awarded the European blue trail badge, which attests to the environmental stewardship and natural richness of this region, a recognition that has been extended until 2025.
This walkway stretches from Roquete beach, adjacent to the Nuestra Señora de la Consolación Fishermen’s Guild, to the San Juanito hermitage, amounting to a total distance of 2.7 kilometres following an expansion of nearly 450 metres last year. The walk can be completed in about 45 minutes.
The Sendero Azul flag proudly flies along the San Juanito route. / ED
What can you see along the trail
Commencing at Roquete beach, the path meanders past the Arenisco natural pool and the Punta del Hidalgo Lighthouse, one of the Island’s most distinctive edifices, before concluding at the San Juanito hermitage.
The route to Punta del Hidalgo is distinctive for its volcanic origin, the unmistakable scent of the sea, and the ongoing activities of fishermen and sports enthusiasts. Beyond being an ideal location for walking or engaging in sports, it grants access to natural pools, areas rich in marine life, and is entwined with ancient Guanche tales. It provides a perfect setting for observing the dynamics of marine ecosystems, featuring treasures such as brown algae.
Biodiversity serves as yet another draw of this shoreline. An array of birds frequent the coast, while the intertidal zone conceals a microcosm teeming with life, where anemones, urchins, sponges, crustaceans, molluscs, fish, and algae coexist. As the tide recedes, a broad rocky platform shaped by erosion emerges, stretching out to a kilometre into the sea, showcasing the natural riches that define this extraordinary volcanic coastline.
Additionally, recent enhancements around the trail have included the establishment of several bird-watching points, and all informational signage along the trail has been updated, amongst other improvements.
Check the renovation plan for the coast of Punta del Hidalgo here.
Summary of blue trails for 2025 by communities. / The Day
Blue Trail Programme
The ADEAC is a non-profit Association that is responsible in Spain for the international programmes of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE): Blue Flag, Ecoschools, and Green Key. The goal of the Blue Trails programme is to recognise the restoration and enhancement of trails and paths across the national territory, transforming them into valuable resources for environmental interpretation and enjoyment of nature. The Blue Trails are ideal venues for environmental awareness, seen as a tool contributing to social change.
In 2025, the highest number of nominations for the Sendero Azul award (157) was recorded, with 76% (124) being renewals and 24% (33) being new trail candidates. Similarly, in 2025, the largest number of Blue Trails (154) has been awarded, with 80.5% (124) being renewals and 19.5% (30) being new trails.
This distinction underscores the commitment of municipalities and public administrations towards the recovery and enhancement of trails and paths that encourage environmental education and sustainable enjoyment of our environment. The programme fosters the learning about the conservation and recovery of trails and routes, turning them into invaluable resources for interpretation and environmental education, as well as for the sustainable enjoyment of nature through recreational, sporting, and tourism activities.
In the Canary Islands, in addition to the lagoon trail, the Time Trail in Tazacorte (La Palma) has also been included on the list.
