Puerto Calero to Puerto del Carmen Coastal Walk

The sea below the path shifts between blue and green, and the black lava shore breaks into small coves along the whole way. The walk keeps to the cliff tops between the marina at Puerto Calero and the old harbour of Puerto del Carmen, and once the town is behind you the coast goes quiet.

A few stairways drop to the water, and the coves below are good for snorkelling. Benches stand along the route, so you can stop for the view as often as you like. Joggers use it too.

A water taxi runs between the two harbours. Walk one way and come back by boat, and you see the same cliffs again from the sea.

• Nothing is on sale between Puerto del Carmen's old harbour and Puerto Calero marina: carry water.
• The ground is stony and uneven in places, with steps up and down. Wear closed shoes.
• The cliff tops are open to the sun, and the heat builds faster than it feels. Bring a hat and sun cream.
• You need not walk back: a water taxi links the two harbours, and taxis and buses are the other options.
• Part of the route is dirt track with steps, so it does not suit wheelchairs or pushchairs.

The walk links Puerto Calero marina with the old harbour of Puerto del Carmen, and you can start at either end. Asphalt car parks lie about 800 m away, and the Puerto Calero bus stop about 1.2 km away; buses run between the two towns.

From the Puerto del Carmen end, the first stretch is paved before it turns to dirt track along the cliff tops. Each leg takes about an hour at an easy pace, or a little over. Plan the return before you set off: walk back, take the water taxi between the harbours, or catch a taxi or bus.

Best: early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low and the path is cooler.

Avoid: the middle of a hot day, especially if you plan to walk both ways.

The cliff tops are exposed to the sun for the whole hour, and the heat is what turns a return walk into a taxi ride.