Altavista Refuge is the only high mountain refuge in the Teide National Park and an essential stopping point for those who wish to climb Spain's highest peak. This refuge is a focal point for hikers and nature lovers who dream of conquering the volcano's summit and experiencing Mount Teide's striking shadow over the Atlantic Ocean.
A refuge with history
This construction has been part of several historical milestones for scientific research and mountaineering, ever since it was first built. In 1856, the Scottish Astronomer Royal, Charles Piazzi Smyth, established the first rudimentary shelter for high-altitude astronomical observations on Mount Teide. He was convinced that the mountains' atmospheric clarity improved scientific accuracy. Later, from 1891-1892, George Graham Toler reinforced and added to the structure, promoting its use as a base for European researchers, photographers and mountaineers. Since then, it has become the epicentre of scientific, volcanological and astronomical exploration in these islands.
The refuge even played a pioneering role in astronomy: Piazzi Smyth and his wife Jessie made unprecedented stellar observations, taking stereoscopic photographs of stars such as Gamma Andromeda, Jupiter, Saturn and the Moon at this site, benefiting from the pure, clear sky at high altitude. These investigations, collected in his work, Astronomical Experiment on the Peak of Teneriffe (1858), marked the origin of high-altitude astronomy and laid the foundations of what would later become the Teide Observatory, consolidating its fame as a 'beacon of science' in the Canary Islands.
Altavista Refuge today
Today, Altavista Refuge is much more than just a place to stay: it is an emblematic place for mountaineers seeking to experience the magic of Mount Teide from within its borders. Located on the slopes of Mount Teide, it has three communal dormitories, a first aid room, a lounge, a dining room, a kitchen and a terrace. It can accommodate a maximum of 49 people. It also has toilets, heating, and vending machines for hot drinks, water and non-perishable food. The refuge has been designed to make your experience comfortable and safe!
You are only allowed to stay for a single night, and advance online booking is essential.
Mountaineers usually leave the refuge in the early hours of the morning to reach the summit at dawn and enjoy an extraordinary natural spectacle.
Did you know that Altavista Refuge is located within the Teide National Park and is a protected natural area and UNESCO World Heritage Site?
This unique environment is home to vulnerable ecosystems and sometimes extreme conditions, both in summer and winter. It poses various risks, including both the altitude and sudden temperature changes.
To ensure the safety of visitors and the park's conservation, access to the refuge is strictly regulated and there are rules on the basic mandatory equipment and permits for accessing the trails set by the Tenerife government. The number of people permitted to walk the trails that lead to the Refuge is limited and there are protocols to ensure a safe and environmentally friendly experience for visitors.
Want to experience an unforgettable stay? At Altavista Refuge it's a sure thing!
