On our island hopping around the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria was the one we instantly fell in love with. We decided to stay for some months to discover its beauty and we didn’t regret it: turquoise waters, amazing landscape scenery, beautiful towns, lovely people…and much more! There would be a never-ending list, but trying really hard to summaries, these are the top 10 things to do we recommend while in Gran Canaria:
1. Get lost in Las Palmas
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has a special vibe. Walk along the beautiful beach of Las Canteras, where to relax sun-bathing or practicing surf.
Stop for a drink or have lunch in one of the many terraces on the promenade, with the amazing ocean view, and enjoy the mix of local and international atmosphere.
Visit as well the Old Town and stop by Mercado de Vegueta to discover local products such as vegetables, fruit, cheese, mojo (typical Canarian sauce) and more. Colorful stands with very friendly owners, this market is considered one of the 10 most beautiful markets in Europe.
2. Walk the dunes of Maspalomas
Desert looking unique landscape, located in the south coast of Gran Canaria, these scenery will leave you speechless.
A natural reserve where golden sand dunes touch the blue ocean, this is the perfect place to watch the sunset.
3. Stroll around Puerto de Mogan
Picturesque fishing coastal town, with its colorful streets bathe in flowers and blue and white houses, Puerto de Mogan is a real beauty.
It is one of the most touristic towns in Gran Canaria, called by many the Little Venice (for its canals and bridges).
It counts as well with a cute beach under the steep cliffs, and a small promenade where to enjoy a good cappuccino.
Just 20min by car from Maspalomas but, if you are staying in Las Palmas, it will take around 1h. However, it’s definitely worth the hype!
4. Hike to Roque Nublo
Time to explore! Roque Nublo is one of the icons of the Canary Islands and an emblematic natural monument of Gran Canaria.
Located in the municipality of Tejeda, this hiking route of 1,5km per way will take you around 30-45min to the top and same to come back.
Enjoy the fascinating views along the way and the nature around, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and also to reconnect with yourself.
If you can, better to plan this trail on week-days, to avoid crowds. Stay till the sunset, promise you will not regret it!
5. Relax at Punta Sardina
One of the best discoveries we have made while in Gran Canaria was the Charcos in Punta Sardina.
All the way down to the coast from the Punta Sardina lighthouse, you’ll find this natural pools, with crystal water where to float and to forget your worries.
Perfect combination of the waves crashing the rocks and the gentle sea breeze caressing you.
Go here with low tide, with high tide the pools will be underwater and this area can become a bit dangerous because of the rough sea. Something else to consider is that there are no services around, so make sure to pack some lunch and water and you’re ready to go!
6. Explore Charco Azul
Another hike worth mentioning is the route of Charco Azul. Starting in the small village El Risco, in the municipality of Agaete, this trail of 3km can be done in about 1h 30min.
Stunning mountain views along the path, ending at the famous Charco Azul, a natural lake under a small waterfall. Jump into the fresh water and be aware of the frogs!
Depending on how much it rained the previous days the waterfall will have more or less water. Before heading here is recommended to check if the weather is good enough to walk this route smoothly. Try to plan it in the morning to avoid the hours when the sun is more intense, since there is no much shadow, and bring plenty of water with you.
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7. Tamadaba Natural Park
The spectacular coastal road leading to Tamadaba park from Agaete, is simply breathtaking and of course a must-see in your trip to Gran Canaria.
Enjoy the outstanding Barranco de Guayedra with its palm-tree landscape and a secluded beach. Then, drive along the winding road direction Aldea de San Nicolás.
Mirador del Balcón is an impressive viewpoint, where you will witness the sea cliff formation known as “Dragon tail” from a glass balcony carved into the rocks, 400m above sea level. Another good spot to watch the sunset!
8. Swim in Playa de Amadores
This shell-shaped beach, surrounded by resorts, might be some times of the year the most overcrowded of the island. We hesitated to give it a try because it is considered a very touristic place…
However, by chance, we were nearby and decided to stop and see. Surprisingly we found it really beautiful and relaxing! Intense blue waters, golden sand and palm trees created the perfect peaceful atmosphere for a nice day at the beach.
9. Have a look at Barranco de las vacas
This could be called the ”Small canyon of Gran Canaria”. Spectacular and peculiar landscape that seems to be in USA or Jordania, but is just here, another gem of this beautiful island.
We suggest to go early in the morning to avoid crowds. It is a bit difficult to find, you should look for ‘Tobas de Colores’ in google maps to get to the right place.
10. Discover Sendero del Álamo
Sendero del Álamo is a less known hiking route, but not less interesting.
Located in the highland of Teror, Barranco del Álamo is a place where to immerse yourself completely in nature.
Some parts of the trail are connected by wooden ladders, that you need to climb. Not so many people know about this traditional path, so no crowds and the atmosphere is really peaceful.
BONUS: Parador de Cruz de Tejeda
If you would like to have a relaxing afternoon in Tejeda, we recommend to book the spa of Parador de Cruz de Tejeda. For around 25€, you can spend 2h in this wellness center, with its stunning infinity pool and Jacuzzi, enjoying the spectacular views.
After hiking to Roque Nublo, you deserve it!
Thank you so much for reading! Hope you will enjoy your upcoming trip to this beautiful island 💙
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