A method is provided for preparing cineoles in an improved yield and with increased 1,4-cineole content, by reaction of terpin hydrate, terpineol or mixtures thereof with an acid, such as 50% sulfuric acid or 85% phosphoric acid, in the presence of a solvent for cineole which solvent is immiscible with the aqueous acid phase of the reaction mixture, and separating the cineole-containing solvent layer from the acid.