Tenerife: Discovery of the Island on Caterham Lotus 7

If you’re looking to add a splash of adrenaline and a pinch of style to your Tenerife trip, this Caterham 7 driving experience might be just the thing. For $118 per group, you can explore the island’s scenic roads behind the wheel of a legendary sportscar—a lightweight, powerful vehicle that promises a driving experience unlike any other. Whether you’re keen on a quick one-hour thrill or a full-day exploration, this tour offers a unique way to see Mount Teide, Anaga Forest, and other stunning sights.

What makes this experience stand apart? First, the sheer joy of driving such an iconic car—light, agile, and with a sporty soul—connects you directly with the scenery, almost as if you’re part of the landscape. Second, the flexibility to choose your route, follow road books, or opt for a personalized trip with a professional driver, caters perfectly to both self-drive enthusiasts and those wanting a guided adventure.

That said, a couple of caveats exist: if you prefer a leisurely, sightseeing-focused tour, this may be a bit high-octane for your taste. Also, the security deposit of €3,000 for drivers is not trivial and requires a credit card hold. It’s best suited for confident drivers and those comfortable with manual transmissions. Overall, if you’re craving a thrilling, exclusive experience with incredible views, this will suit adventurous spirits who love cars and scenic drives.

Key Points

  • Unique driving experience in a legendary Caterham 7 sports car
  • Flexible options for short, half-day, or full-day adventures
  • Spectacular scenery including Mount Teide and Anaga Forest
  • Includes safety briefing, simulator test, and vehicle familiarization
  • Option for self-driving or guided ride
  • Mileage options vary from 50 km to 280 km, depending on your chosen duration
You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Tenerife on Four Wheels: A Deep Dive

Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a landscape that ranges from volcanic peaks to lush forests. The Caterham 7 experience taps into this diversity, giving you the chance to see the island from a perspective few travelers get—at the wheel of a legendary, high-performance sports car.

The Logistics and Who’s It For

For $118, you get a group experience, typically up to one person per booking, but the experience can be tailored for couples or small groups if booked accordingly. The tour begins in front of Loro Parque, a famous Tenerife attraction, making the start convenient for those staying near Puerto de la Cruz. The activity lasts from 1 to 8 hours, with mileage allowances that match the duration: 50 km for 1 hour, 140 km for 4 hours, and 280 km for 8 hours.

This experience suits drivers aged 25+ with at least five years of driving experience, especially if you want to drive yourself. Those who prefer not to take the wheel can be accompanied by an instructor driver, ensuring everyone can enjoy the scenic drive safely. The provision of racing shoes for drivers and a security deposit of €3,000 might seem steep, but it’s a standard measure for high-performance driving experiences.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

You have the choice of visiting Tenerife’s top natural sights, including the spectacular Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, or the lush Anaga Rural Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs and verdant landscape. The briefing on the route ensures you’re prepared, whether you’re following a pre-planned road book or opting for a tailored adventure.

Travelers have shared that the views are breathtaking—imagine twisting mountain roads with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic, volcanic landscapes, and pine forests. The light and agile Caterham excels on winding mountain roads, giving you a sensation akin to a karting experience but with the comfort of a proper car.

The Experience Inside the Car

The brand new Caterham 340 SV models are known for their impressive power-to-weight ratio of 340 horsepower per ton. We loved the way the car responded instantly to our inputs, making every turn feel purposeful. The test drive on a professional simulator before hitting the road helps even seasoned drivers feel confident. The vehicle familiarization session with an instructor ensures you understand the controls, which is particularly helpful if you’re self-driving.

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What Travelers Are Saying

One review notes, “Driving the Caterham was unlike anything I’ve experienced—light, quick, and just plain fun.” Others appreciated the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, who guided them through the process, making it accessible even for first-timers. Several mentioned how the scenic drives through Tenerife’s varied landscapes made the experience memorable, with one traveler stating, “The views from the mountain roads are simply stunning, and the car’s responsiveness made it all the more exciting.”

The Value and Practicalities

At just over $100, this experience offers excellent value considering the exclusivity and thrill factor. The all-included briefing, safety instructions, and vehicle familiarization mean you’re well-prepared, and the option to choose longer drives adds flexibility for those wanting a deeper adventure.

Refueling after the test drive isn’t included, so plan accordingly. The meeting point at Loro Parque is convenient, and the activity ends back at the start, making logistics straightforward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for car enthusiasts eager for a thrilling drive amid Tenerife’s stunning scenery. It’s especially suitable for experienced drivers comfortable with manual transmissions and confident on mountain roads. If you’re looking for a luxury, adrenaline-fueled adventure that combines spectacular views with a bit of speed, this tour won’t disappoint.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, sightseeing-focused day, or those with mobility or height restrictions. The driving requirement and deposit might be a hurdle for some, but if you fit the criteria, it’s an unforgettable way to explore the island.

The Sum Up

For those craving a unique, adrenaline-pumping experience in Tenerife, this Caterham 7 adventure offers an unbeatable blend of scenic beauty and sporty excitement. The flexibility of routes and professional guidance ensure you can tailor the experience to fit your preferences, whether you want a quick thrill or a full-day exploration.

Travelers who appreciate spectacular views, driving precision, and a sense of speed will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a perfect choice for adventure-oriented visitors who want to make their Tenerife visit stand out.

If you’re comfortable behind the wheel and love scenic mountain roads, this experience is a rare opportunity to connect with the island’s natural beauty in a truly memorable way. Just be prepared for the security deposit and ensure you meet the driving requirements—then get ready for a driving adventure you’ll be talking about for years.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for all drivers?
No, drivers must be at least 25 years old and have a minimum of 5 years of driving experience, especially if they want to drive themselves.

Can I be a passenger if I do not want to drive?
Yes, you can opt for a guided ride with a professional instructor driver, so you don’t need to drive if you prefer.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a safety briefing, a brief history of the Caterham brand, a simulator test, vehicle familiarization, route briefing, and the chosen duration of drive (1, 4, or 8 hours).

Are there mileage limits?
Yes, depending on your drive duration—50 km for 1 hour, 140 km for 4 hours, and 280 km for 8 hours.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins in front of Loro Parque and ends back at the same meeting point.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, suitable shoes (racing shoes are provided if you drive), and a valid driver’s license.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
People over 6 ft 6 in (200 cm), visually impaired individuals, and those unable to drive manual cars cannot participate.

This tour is a fantastic way to combine the thrill of driving with the natural beauty of Tenerife. If you’re after a memorable adventure that puts you in control of a legendary vehicle while soaking in the island’s breathtaking scenery, this is an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: