TF-436 is a challenging zigzag road on Canary Islands

TF-436 is a challenging zigzag road on Canary Islands

Spain, europe

Length

22.1 km

Elevation

1,060 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

# TF-436: Tenerife's Ultimate Twisty Mountain Adventure

Ready for one of Europe's most thrilling drives? Welcome to TF-436, a hidden gem tucked into the northwestern corner of Tenerife in Spain's Canary Islands. This 22.1 km (13.73 miles) stretch of pure adrenaline connects the coastal town of Buenavista del Norte to Santiago del Teide, and it's absolutely spectacular.

Let's be real—this road is *intense*. It winds through the Macizo de Teno mountains with hundreds of curves and hairpin turns that'll keep your hands glued to the steering wheel. We're talking about a skinny, fully paved ribbon that's basically a one-lane road with occasional pull-overs. Two large vehicles? Forget about it. The road climbs at a punishing 16% gradient in places, so leave the car-sickness-prone passengers at home (seriously, this one's not for the faint of heart).

Plan on spending between 1 to 1.5 hours for the drive—though Google Maps optimistically suggests 48 minutes if you're completely stopping. Pro tip: avoid this road in peak summer when the mountain traffic gets hectic.

The payoff? Absolutely worth it. You'll crest at 1,060m (3,477ft) elevation at Mirador de Cherfe, a stunning natural viewpoint where the landscape opens up in every direction. The views are genuinely breathtaking, with 360-degree vistas showcasing Tenerife's wild natural beauty. This is one of the Canary Islands' best roads—no question about it.

Where is it?

TF-436 is a challenging zigzag road on Canary Islands is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 39.8432, -2.9309

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Spain
Continent
europe
Length
22.1 km
Max Elevation
1,060 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
39.8432, -2.9309

Related Roads in europe

A curvy road with 75 hairpin turns to Col de la Lombardeextreme

A curvy road with 75 hairpin turns to Col de la Lombarde

🇫🇷 France

# Col de la Lombarde-Colle della Lombarda Ever dreamed of conquering a legendary Alpine pass? Welcome to Col de la Lombarde-Colle della Lombarda, sitting pretty at 2,354m (7,723ft) on the Italy-France border. This beast connects southeastern France's Alpes-Maritimes with Italy's Cuneo Province in Piedmont, and trust us—it's absolutely worth the detour. Perched high above the Isola 2000 ski resort, this fully paved road is a thrilling roller coaster of 75 hairpin turns that'll keep your hands glued to the steering wheel. The French call it M97; the Italians know it as Strada Provinciale 255 (SP255). Built in 1971, it's typically open to traffic only during the summer months. The full 41.6 km (25.84 miles) stretch from Isola in France to Vinadio in Italy is a white-knuckle adventure that usually takes between 1 to 1.5 hours to drive. Some sections climb at a gnarly 17% gradient, so this isn't for the faint of heart. But here's the payoff: absolutely breathtaking Alpine views at every turn, plus historical WWII ruins—blockhouses and barracks—scattered near the summit. There's a small parking lot at the top where you can catch your breath and celebrate. Fun fact: the Tour de France didn't tackle this beast until 2008, proving that some roads are just too epic to ignore. Ready for the challenge?

A 5-Star Road to Monte Croce di Comelico Passmoderate

A 5-Star Road to Monte Croce di Comelico Pass

🇮🇹 Italy

Passo Monte Croce di Comelico is a stunning high mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,636m (5,367ft) above sea level, right where South Tyrol and Belluno provinces shake hands in northern Italy. You might also hear locals calling it Kreuzbergpass. This is one of those epic border crossings that really marks the transition between two worlds – it's the dividing line between the majestic Dolomites to the west and the rugged Carnic Alps to the northeast. It's also where the Autonomous Province of Bolzano meets the Veneto region, not far from the Austrian border. The drive itself is a beauty. The 37km (23-mile) route runs south-north from Santo Stefano di Cadore all the way up to San Candido, and the whole thing is silky smooth – pristine pavement the entire way along Strada Statale 52 (SS52). No rough surprises here, just quality asphalt for the full journey. Once you crest the summit, you'll find yourself at a proper little hub with a spacious parking lot, a charming chapel, a hotel, and a restaurant where you can catch your breath and refuel. It's the kind of place that's earned its stripes too – professional cyclists have tackled this pass during the Giro d'Italia, so you know it's legit. Whether you're a serious driver or just chasing mountain views, this is one pass that truly delivers.

Where is Col de la Chaudière?hard

Where is Col de la Chaudière?

🇫🇷 France

Okay, adventure-seekers, let's talk about the Col de la Chaudière! You'll find this gem nestled in the Drôme department of France, part of the stunning Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. So, what's it like? This isn't just any drive; it's a 22.5km (13.98 mile) rollercoaster on the D156, connecting Saillans and Bourdeaux in a north-south dance. Expect a fully paved road, but be warned: it's a bit rough around the edges! Think narrow lanes, hairpin turns galore, and views that'll have you pulling over every five minutes. And steep? Oh yeah. Some corners crank up to a solid 10% grade! If you're coming from Bourdeaux, get ready for an 11.6 km climb, gaining 637 meters at an average of 5.5%. Starting in Saillans? Buckle up for an 11.5 km ascent, racking up 773 meters with an average gradient of 6.7%. Traffic is light, making it feel like you've got the mountains all to yourself. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!

Where is Llanberis Pass?moderate

Where is Llanberis Pass?

🇬🇧 Wales

Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Llanberis Pass in stunning Snowdonia, Wales! Nestled right in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, this isn't just a drive, it's an experience. Picture this: you're cruising on the A4086, a completely paved road snaking between the Glyderau and Snowdon ranges. Built way back in the 1830s, this 17.05km (10.6 miles) stretch connects Llanberis, chilling by Llyn Padarn lake, to Capel Curig. Give yourself about 20-30 minutes for a non-stop run, but trust me, you'll want to pull over. The views from the top are killer! Plus, the summit’s got everything you need: a bar, café, hostel, and parking. Just be ready for some steep climbs – we're talking gradients hitting over 10%! The Tour of Britain even tackles these hills, so you know it's legit. Llanberis Pass: history, tranquility, and views that will blow your mind!