Renovation work is set to begin this Thursday on the historic Punta de Teno Lighthouse in the northwest of Tenerife. Abandoned for several years, the lighthouse will soon be transformed into a cultural and tourist attraction, offering visitors a blend of heritage, scenic beauty, and modern amenities.
The project, led by the Cabildo de Tenerife in coordination with the Buenavista del Norte Town Council and the Port Authorities, aims to restore and repurpose the 100-year-old structure while preserving its architectural and environmental value.
One of the highlights of the renovation will be the inclusion of a café or restaurant within the lighthouse complex, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments in one of the island’s most breathtaking coastal locations.
Initial works will focus on improving access, parking, and pedestrian pathways, laying the groundwork for broader restoration. The lighthouse, perched beside Tenerife’s dramatic sea cliffs once referred to as "the wall of hell," will also be upgraded with vital services such as running water and electricity. Plans also include the installation of underground restrooms and storage facilities to support daily operations.
The total cost of the project is €1.6 million, financed through the European Union’s Next Generation EU Recovery Plan. Construction is expected to last approximately 10 months.
Efforts will be made to enhance the surrounding natural environment, ensure visitor safety, and boost accessibility through improved public transport links. Parking for authorised vehicles will also be expanded, with a clear emphasis on sustainability and protecting the fragile coastal landscape.
About Punto de Teno
Built between 1891 and 1893 and first lit in 1897, the Punta de Teno Lighthouse was designed by Catalan engineer José Sanz Soler. It was the third lighthouse to illuminate Tenerife’s coastline. The structure includes living quarters for lighthouse keepers, office space, storage, and a tower built with stone sourced from nearby La Gomera.
Access to the lighthouse and the Punta de Teno area is tightly regulated via the TF-445 road, with restrictions in place to reduce traffic and environmental impact. Currently, only public buses and authorised vehicles, such as those used by local fishermen, farmers, and emergency services, are permitted to enter. These restrictions will remain in effect throughout the renovation period.
Public transport to Punta de Teno is provided by the TITSA line 369, which runs from Buenavista del Norte and takes approximately 20 minutes. Tickets are priced at €1 per person, offering an affordable way for visitors to explore this iconic location while helping to preserve its natural charm.
Once complete, the refurbished lighthouse is expected to become a landmark destination, blending history, ecology, and tourism in one of Tenerife’s most scenic and remote corners.
