Once back to the bus, we made the drive over to the base station of the Teide Cableway (Teleférico del Teide) at 2356m above sea level. The ride took a mere eight minutes and got us up to an elevation of 3555m. Our guide had secured the necessary permits, allowing us, to attempt the walk up to the top – covering another 160m of altitude difference, to make it to the peak at 3715m.

Obviously the air was thin up here – and breathing was noticeably more strenuous than at sea level. Nevertheless many of the group made it (including myself) – rewarded by perfect weather and a great view in all directions.

After a climb back to the top station and another eight minutes cableway ride, we made it back to the bus for the downhill drive to our base at the beach, a pre-dinner ocean swim and dinner with a slightly overwhelmed service.