Gran Canaria, the island Located in the heart of the Canary archipelago, offers visitors an enchanting blend of natural wonders, culture, and history. From its golden sandy beaches to its rugged mountain peaks, this destination is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. In this travel article, we’ll explore ten must-see attractions that have made Gran Canaria a popular choice for tourists, as well as ten hidden gems that will take you off the beaten track.
- Las Canteras Beach: Start your journey by unwinding on the golden sands of Las Canteras Beach, a sun-soaked paradise stretching for 3 kilometers along the island’s capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
- Roque Nublo: Venture inland to Admire the Roque Nublo, a monolithic basalt rock formation that offers panoramic views of the island. It is a sacred symbol for the indigenous people and definitely worth the hike.
- Tejeda: Immerse yourself in the village of Tejeda, Located amidst the mountain landscape. Explore its streets, visit local craft stores, and sample traditional Canarian cuisine like goat cheese and almond-based sweets.
- Maspalomas Dunes: Visit the Maspalomas Dunes, a natural wonderland where the golden sands meet the Atlantic Ocean. Take a camel ride, witness sunsets, or simply relax amidst the tranquility of the desert-like landscape.
- Vegueta: Step back in time as you wander through the streets of Vegueta, the oldest neighbourhood in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Admire its colonial architecture, visit the magnificent Catedral de Santa Ana, and explore the Casa de Colón museum.
- Puerto de Mogán: Discover the enchanting “Little Venice” of Gran Canaria, Puerto de Mogán. This fishing village is adorned with colourful bougainvillea flowers, canals, and waterfront restaurants.
- Caldera de Bandama: Embark on a hiking adventure to the Caldera de Bandama, a volcanic crater offering vistas of the island’s interior. Don’t miss the chance to taste the exquisite local wines produced in the nearby vineyards.
- Palmitos Park: Immerse yourself in nature at Palmitos Park, a subtropical oasis housing an incredible variety of exotic plants and animals. Enjoy entertaining dolphin and parrot shows and explore the botanical gardens.
- Casa-Museo León y Castillo: Delve into the island’s history at the Casa-Museo León y Castillo. This beautifully restored mansion once belonged to two influential Canarian statesmen and offers a glimpse into the island’s political past.
- Bandama Golf: Experience a round of golf in a truly setting at Bandama Golf, a highly regarded course located in a volcanic crater. Play amidst scenery and enjoy the challenging layout.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:
- Barranco de los Cernícalos: Embark on a hike through the Barranco de los Cernícalos, a hidden valley filled with vegetation, waterfalls, and winding trails. This oasis is a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
- Faro de Sardina: Located in the north of the island, Faro de Sardina is a hidden gem with rugged coastal cliffs and a lighthouse offering views of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the tranquility and watch the sunset in this lesser-known spot.
- Cueva de Valerón: Explore the mysterious Cueva de Valerón, an ancient troglodyte settlement carved into the volcanic rock. This historical site reveals the island’s indigenous past and provides a glimpse into the lives of its original inhabitants.
- Montaña de Arucas: Scale Montaña de Arucas, a dormant volcano boasting unparalleled panoramic views over the traditional village of Arucas and its famous neo-gothic church. This off-the-beaten-path destination is suitable for tranquility seekers.
- Charco Azul: Seek out the Charco Azul, a secluded natural rock pool formed by volcanic activity. Located among banana plantations, this hidden gem invites you to take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.
- Los Tilos de Moya: Take a leisurely stroll through Los Tilos de Moya, a serene laurel forest offering a cool escape from the island’s heat. Explore its enchanting pathways, listen to the chirping birds, and revel in the tranquility of this lesser-known paradise.
- Playa de Güigüi: For the adventurous souls, set off on a challenging hike to Playa de Güigüi, a secluded beach accessible only by foot or boat. Experience unspo
