Roques de Anaga

Roques de Anaga are two rocky formations rising out of the sea off the north-eastern coast of Tenerife, widely regarded as one of the island's most recognizable natural landmarks. They sit near Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the Anaga area, and form a distinctive silhouette visible to anyone approaching the island from the water.

What exactly are the Roques de Anaga?

They are two separate rock monoliths, remnants of the volcanic activity that shaped the wider Anaga region. The first, Roque de Tierra, lies closer to the main island and rises 179 meters above sea level. The second, Roque de Fuera, sits further out and reaches 66 meters in height. Their names — "de Tierra" (of the land) and "de Fuera" (the outer one) — directly reflect their position relative to the Tenerife coastline.

Why are these rocks protected?

Roques de Anaga are included in the European Union's Natura 2000 network of protected areas. This designation reflects the ecological significance of the site: the rocks and the surrounding waters form a distinct habitat, separated from the rest of the island, which helps preserve the specific conditions needed by the species found there. Being part of Natura 2000 means the area is subject to rules intended to limit human interference and keep it as undisturbed as possible.

Where are they located?

The formations lie at coordinates 28.598, -16.159, placing them just off the coast of Tenerife, near the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the Anaga mountain massif that occupies the island's north-eastern tip. Standing offshore rather than on the coastline itself, they act as a landmark for sailors and fishermen navigating this stretch of the coast.

Frequently asked questions

How many Roques de Anaga are there, and what are their names? There are two: Roque de Tierra and Roque de Fuera.

Which of the two rocks is taller? Roque de Tierra, at 179 meters above sea level, compared to 66 meters for Roque de Fuera.

Which rock is closer to the island? Roque de Tierra is the one closer to the main island, while Roque de Fuera lies further out to sea.

Are the Roques de Anaga legally protected? Yes, both formations are part of the Natura 2000 network, the European Union's system of protected natural areas.

Where in Tenerife are they found? Off the north-eastern coast of the island, near Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the Anaga massif.

Are they volcanic in origin? Like most of Tenerife's characteristic rock formations, the Roques de Anaga are remnants of the region's past volcanic activity, which explains their steep, monolithic shapes rising directly out of the sea.