Route through Gran Canaria
Discover behind the wheel this "miniature continent" of cosmopolitan cities, picturesque towns, overflowing nature and spectacular beaches
Descubre al volante este “continente en miniatura” de cosmopolitas ciudades, pintorescos pueblos, desbordante naturaleza y espectaculares playas
"The Route through the Story Island" will manage to surprise even the most experienced traveler. You are facing a true "miniature continent" of mild temperatures throughout the year. Gran Canaria is the island of open doors, the mix of cultures and dream beaches. In its 1,500 km² you can travel from the rugged north coast, through extinct volcanoes and prehistoric laurel forests, relics of the Tertiary Era, to the challenging central peaks. A land of great contrasts, it houses in its geography an extensive coastline of sand of all colors and calm waters, deep ravines, arid landscapes, beautiful gardens, unique dunes in the world and an infinity of charming corners... This car route will allow you to discover at your own pace -and always with the freedom to drive your own car and design your own stages- lively cities, picturesque fishing villages, elegant tourist enclaves... And kilometers of postcard beaches where you can cool off and rest under the sun. It is also a route to discover a unique nature, recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, admire an elegant colonial architecture, participate in centuries-old traditions, get to know a genuine seafaring atmosphere and an eclectic culture that translates into a welcoming and open population and a delicious gastronomy full of surprises.
Day 1 - Home City - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Departure on a flight from your home city to Gran Canaria. Arrival at the airport and pick up your rental car. The distance from the airport to the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is about 25 kilometers on the GC 1 highway. After settling in and checking in at the hotel, you can embark on your first visit to this cosmopolitan and lively city. Did you know that the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria was built on the site where the first Castilian conquerors settled? Already in the 16th century, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria was a fully-fledged city. Currently, tradition and avant-garde coexist in this cosmopolitan city with friendly metropolitan airs that has masterfully integrated its urban core into a wide coastline that extends from the historic center to the busy and beautiful port of La Luz.
You can dedicate today to stroll around the pedestrian street of Triana and its adjacent streets. Here, you will discover an interesting commercial offer with traditional shops, bazaars, excellent boutiques, and stores where you can find electronic products with significant tax exemptions. Other streets that have commercial importance are Ripoche, Albareda, Juan Rejón, and the streets behind Santa Catalina Park. Those who want to discover the monumental area should head to the nearby neighborhood of Vegueta, which houses a great variety of heritage and museum sites. Here, you will find bars, restaurants, and a varied nightlife. Another option is to go to the Las Canteras area, one of the best urban beaches in Europe. As the day falls, admire its six kilometers of golden sand. Its sunsets by the shore are simply unbeatable. Need more ideas to enjoy the Island's excellent gastronomic offer? The port or the picturesque San Cristobal neighborhood are two good options to taste excellent local fish dishes at a good price. Accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Day 2 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Telde - Valsequillo de Gran Canaria - Ingenio - Agüimes - Maspalomas
Our second day starts in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and aims to discover the magical inland towns. We recommend taking a complete breakfast that will give you enough energy for the fascinating journey ahead. From the island's capital, you can explore four municipalities that mostly have spectacular beach areas suitable for water sports such as diving and windsurfing. The distance by car between Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Telde, the former capital of Gran Canaria, is about twenty minutes. Telde is the third most important city in the Canary Islands and offers a wide range of cultural, gastronomic, and archaeological experiences. It is a beautiful city rich in traditions and local handicrafts. Don't miss trying the Canarian stew, roasted suckling pig leg, or their exquisite cheese. You can also find excellent fresh fish and delicious desserts, such as guava sweet, banana merengada, or bizcochón. In Telde, you can stroll through the historic San Gregorio neighborhood, with its important church and picturesque traditional shops, or go to the founding area of San Juan, full of stately homes, with the majestic basilica of San Juan as a backdrop. Another option is to visit the Leon and Castillo House Museum, which houses an important collection of artistic objects related to the history of the Canary Islands. Finally, you can visit the San Francisco artistic and historic complex. For archaeology enthusiasts, the surroundings of Telde offer significant archaeological sites, such as La Restinga, Tufia, or the Cuatro Puertas Cave. Next, you can get back on the road and, after driving for about twenty minutes, you will arrive at Valsequillo de Gran Canaria. You are in a town that rises 600 meters above sea level and is surrounded by majestic mountains. Discover a paradise for hiking.
From Valsequillo, there are interesting routes where you can contemplate the exuberant Canarian nature, the chromatic contrast of its flora, its volcanic landscapes, and its rich autochthonous fauna. Additionally, in its surroundings, there are important pre-Hispanic caves. After the visit, return to the car. Your next stop will be Ingenio, about three-quarters of an hour away. Here you can calmly stroll through its historic center or head to the colossal archaeological site Barranco de Guayadeque, located in the vicinity of Ingenio. It is a natural area with unique pre-Hispanic sites, full of nature and archaeological remains, such as its famous cave houses. There is a very interesting interpretation center that will allow you to know these aboriginal treasures firsthand. The next stop of the day will be Agüimes. In this beautiful colonial town, you can visit the surprising Church of San Sebastián, whose facade is of a renowned Canarian neoclassical style, or the Rural Hotel Casa de los Camellos, a stately building with an intense aristocratic flavor. Very close to here, in the square of San Antón, is the Agüimes Tourist Information Office, essential to know the architectural history of this village. If you still have time, you can head to the Museum of History of Agüimes, the former Episcopal Palace. You can end the day by heading to nearby beaches and, in this way, contemplate a magnificent sunset from the beach of Vargas, the beach of Arinaga, the beach of Balos, or El Burrero. We end the day in the touristy and lively town of Maspalomas, where we will stay for the next few days and from where we will make interesting excursions. Say goodbye to the day with a pleasant dinner at its trendy restaurants and enjoying its renowned nightlife. Accommodation in Maspalomas.
Day 3 - Maspalomas - Santa Lucía de Tirajana - San Bartolomé de Tirajana - Maspalomas
We wake up in Maspalomas, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with sea views. Today you can combine your stay in this town, with its beaches and wide range of leisure activities, with an excursion that will allow you to discover the towns of Santa Lucía de Tirajana and San Bartolomé de Tirajana, located just over an hour's drive away. We start our car excursion towards the interior of Gran Canaria by visiting Santa Lucía de Tirajana. We find ourselves in a unique municipality, located in a privileged landscape enclave. Discover the beautiful church of Santa Lucía, with its whitish dome, or the nearby archaeological sites, such as La Fortaleza, formed by three rocks and which legend relates to the surrender of the aborigines to the Castilian troops in 1483. The nearby Tirajana Dam has great landscape beauty, where you can contemplate extensive palm groves, such as La Sorrueda. And from the center of Santa Lucía, numerous hiking trails depart that will allow you to enjoy a few hours in the middle of nature.
Next, we head to San Bartolomé de Tirajana. Tunte is the capital of the municipality and is located in the Caldera de Tirajana, a huge volcanic crater that emerged in the middle of the island. In Tunte, you can visit the church of San Bartolomé and see the magnificent views that can be observed from its viewpoints. And our tour continues through the south of Gran Canaria, specifically towards the always lively and internationally popular town of Maspalomas. It's time to look for sun, magnificent beaches, a wide range of leisure activities, and spectacular dune landscapes. You will need about 40 minutes to cover the distance between Tunte and Maspalomas. Known worldwide for its endless beach and wonderful dunes. Contemplating its six kilometers of constantly moving sand from the viewpoint is a spectacle. To avoid burning your feet, there's nothing better than seeing them on the back of a camel. You will feel like a true explorer sailing through the desert! The climatic conditions of this environment are always favorable, and the temperatures are eternal spring-like. And we are in the tourist area par excellence of Gran Canaria. Discover a setting that will transport you to the desert and the oasis! Close to Playa del Inglés, it is also a destination for surfers all year round. We recommend visiting the Palmeral, the Charcas, and the Dunas, the three ecosystems of its Special Natural Reserve, the old lighthouse, its lively promenade... The mild climate and magnificent views make water sports and golf unique... Enjoy its long days and warm nights full of fun. Plagued by large tourist complexes, it still retains intimate corners away from the hustle and bustle. Accommodation in Maspalomas.
Day 4 - Maspalomas - San Agustín - Arguineguín - Puerto Rico - Amadores - Taurito - Puerto de Mogán - Maspalomas
We can dedicate this fourth day to discovering the stunning beaches of the south of the island. Today you will discover kilometers and kilometers of paradisiacal beaches. There are popular and well-known ones, such as the long tongue of sand in Maspalomas, a huge line of blonde sand that starts from Playa del Inglés and touches the foot of the great lighthouse of Maspalomas, after skirting a desert of dunes that bathes the southern coast of the island. Also in the south, you will find another long series of good beaches. We present the main ones, so that you can organize your day according to your tastes. Let's get started! San Agustín beach has all the services and facilities. Famous for its elegant hotels, discreet villas, small urbanizations surrounded by vegetation and its black sand beach, in San Agustín you will feel that time stops. With an intimate atmosphere, it is just a few minutes away from the crowded coasts of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, whose animation is well known throughout Europe. A privileged location that will allow you to choose between a peaceful and beautiful environment and another, very close, of bustling activity and continuous festive atmosphere. Sheltered from excessive currents, it is an ideal enclave for diving and enjoying a colorful seabed. On the other hand, the picturesque coastal town of Arguineguín, about 13.6 kilometers from Maspalomas along the GC-1, is another good alternative to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere without excessive tourist crowds. Its intact customs and seafaring atmosphere have become hallmarks of this tranquil enclave, ideal for a few hours of rest. Choose from a range of beaches and coves located a few kilometers from its port, including Patalavaca Beach, La Verga, Anfi del Mar... The next stop could be Puerto Rico, a town that you will reach after driving along a beautiful stretch of road that snakes parallel to the coast. Did you know that Puerto Rico is one of the areas of the island that receives the most hours of sunshine per year? Exclusive and elegant, Puerto Rico is one of the most beautiful tourist centers on the island, famous for its luxurious hotel plants and its charming white apartments that seem to be "hanging" from the slopes of the valleys. Located on the photogenic coast of Mogán, it is known for its excellent climate, its beautiful coastline of soft and fine sand from the Sahara, its calm waters, its exquisite gastronomic spaces, and its stylish marina where you will see both pleasure boats and luxury yachts docked. (Note: If you have time, we recommend signing up for the whale watching excursions organized on boats with fun glass bottoms).
Just a few kilometers away, you can visit the Angry Birds Activity Park, the Puerto Rico shopping center, and the well-kept Amadores beach, which you can reach through a pleasant seaside promenade lined with colorful gardens, commercial areas, and original restaurants... Throughout the year, many visitors are encouraged to practice water sports in this area, which is the birthplace of recognized Olympic medalists. The last part of the day will take you to Playa del Taurito, located between Puerto de Mogán and Puerto Rico. Its well-kept fine sand beach is well protected from excessive winds, thanks to the high rocky walls that surround it. Just a few minutes away, you will find a large artificial seawater lake, surrounded by colorful green and sports areas, and the only seawater water park on the island of Gran Canaria. (Note: In this town, you can discover the Molino Quemado de Mogán, also called the "Molino de la rebelión", known for being the tallest windmill on the island, measuring seven meters in height, and for its legend: the locals say that in the past it was burned by a villager in protest against the abuse of political power. Reconstructed in 1998, it is the only one on the entire island with six blades and has become a tourist attraction). And as a final touch, Playa de Mogán, a place of great natural beauty, attractive vegetation, and a well-kept black sand beach... Its active sports pier, a meeting point for numerous nautical enthusiasts, is a peaceful and lively place where you can taste exquisite fish and seafood dishes. Its numerous canals, crossed by small bridges, will make you feel suspended at sea level, which is why it is known as "Little Venice". For sea lovers, it is the ideal place to hire a boat ride, engage in water sports, or take an unforgettable excursion to spot dolphins and whales. Return and accommodation in Maspalomas.
Day 5 - Maspalomas - La Aldea de San Nicolás - Agaete - Gáldar - Santa María de Guía - Moya - Firgas - Arucas - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Our fifth day is going to be very intense and exciting. We leave Maspalomas and, after a little over an hour of traveling around the western coast of the island, we arrive at La Aldea de San Nicolás de Tolentino, in the interior. The homonymous municipality offers a great landscape richness and has more than thirty kilometers of very rugged coasts, secluded beaches, and coves ideal for diving. The beaches of Tasarte and Tasartico have an exceptional climate. Once in the interior, you can visit the hermitage of San Nicolás and stroll through its small urban center. Next, and after three-quarters of an hour by car, we arrive in Agaete. You can head to its beaches or, if you prefer, explore the natural beauty of its surroundings, such as the nearby Tamadaba Natural Park, of great natural and geological interest. As you get closer to the coast, the landscape becomes more rugged and rugged. The Canarian pine forests are characteristic of this area, and the Agaete valley presents an exceptional landscape, always green, with dream temperatures. Another option is to walk around the Puerto de Las Nieves and the Playa de las Nieves, where you will see a breathtaking panoramic view with its nearby cliffs, such as Roque Partido, better known as the Finger of God. Then, get back on the road towards Gáldar, a little over twenty minutes away. The area houses a rich archaeological heritage that you can visit. It is also worth knowing the Church of Santiago de los Caballeros, the Consistorial Theater, or the Antonio Padrón House-Museum. And in its surroundings, the lighthouse and the Sardina beach are especially picturesque, one of the most beautiful corners of the island. And if you have more time, just three kilometers away, you will find the Montaña de Amagro Natural Monument, of great landscape value.
Our tour continues in the municipality of Santa Maria de Guia. Take a leisurely stroll through its historic center and discover its picturesque buildings and rich heritage. Another option, if you are a lover of surfing, is to head to the beach of San Felipe. Those looking for a more family-friendly atmosphere can head to the Roque Prieto natural pools, where you can enjoy a delicious sea bath with volcanic cliffs and rocks as a backdrop. Don't forget to try their excellent local cheese! Now we head to the nearby towns of Moya and Firgas, very close to each other. You can walk through their historic center and contemplate their rich monumental heritage, such as the church of San Juan Bautista. Another option is to head to the nearby Rural Park of Doramas and observe its unusual landscape, full of steep ravines and lush vegetation. Next, we head to Arucas, where we recommend that you visit its urban center, declared of historical-artistic interest in 1976. Don't miss the beautiful panoramic view of the north of the island from the viewpoint of the Arucas mountain. Accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Day 6 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Santa Brígida - Vega de San Mateo - Tejeda - Artenara - Valleseco - Teror - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Today, you can spend the day exploring the interior of the island. Your first stop could be Santa Brígida, located about twenty minutes away by car. The natural surroundings that surround this historic town are of singular beauty. Be sure to visit its famous mother church, as well as the Casa del Vino, located in the historic center. The market that takes place on weekends offers an interesting display of local products, such as cheeses, traditional honeys, country bread, or delicious jams. And if you prefer, you can head to the nearby Atalaya de Santa Brígida village, where pre-Hispanic cave houses are preserved. Next, we head to Vega de San Mateo, just a few minutes away by car. It is worth taking a slow stroll through its small historic center and visiting its parish church, as well as the Alameda de Santa Ana and the Town Hall. On weekends, it is possible to visit a market of agricultural and artisanal products. Nature lovers and those who love stunning views are in luck, as just 15 kilometers away is the breathtaking viewpoint of Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve, where you can contemplate magnificent views of the island and even the Teide of the nearby island of Tenerife.
Next, you can head to Tejeda, which is less than half an hour from the viewpoint. Discover this beautiful town located over a thousand meters above sea level. The unique natural surroundings, with Canary pine forests and rugged mountains, make Tejeda a must-visit destination. In Tejeda, you can visit the Abraham Cárdenes Sculpture Museum or the Ethnographic Museum. You can also head to the Church of Our Lady of Socorro or its Parador Nacional, located nine kilometers away, and of course, the nearby Degollada de Becerra viewpoint is a good option for taking in the views. Finally, the incredible Bentayga and Nublo rocks, with their unique rock formations, await. Now, we head to Artenara. In this municipality, which descends to the coast and is surrounded by mountains and beautiful forests, you can visit the Archaeological Complex of Acusa, with its famous pre-Hispanic cave houses, the Hermitage of the Virgen de La Cuevita, excavated in a rock face, or the Church of San Matías. Other places of interest are the Casas Cuevas de Artenara Ethnographic Museum and the Unamuno viewpoint, with impressive views. The car journey continues to Valleseco. This is a beautiful village surrounded by vegetation that offers magnificent hiking trails. In the Barranco de la Virgen, you can see some remains of laurel forests. Our visit ends in Teror, just a quarter of an hour from Valleseco. This municipality has great cultural and natural value. Don't miss a stroll through the historic center of Teror and a visit to the famous Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, an excellent example of Canary architecture. Return and accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Day 7 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The last day of this exciting route can be dedicated to getting to know the main corners of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria more thoroughly. Don't miss visiting the Puerto-Canteras district, with its Las Canteras neighborhood and its almost four kilometers of promenade that surround its famous beach. Around it, you can discover streets full of shops and countless places where you can enjoy a good atmosphere. If you head to the La Isleta neighborhood, you can visit the Castle of La Luz, which was the first fortress built by the Castilians (1494) on a reef when they conquered Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Then, you can go to the Vegueta neighborhood and visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the Atlantic Center of Modern Art, the Vegueta Market, the Columbus House Museum, and the nearby Church of San Antonio Abad and the Canarian Museum, where you will find interesting exhibitions of goldsmithing, ceramics, utensils, and pre-Hispanic mummies.
Once you have visited this historic district, you can head to the neighborhood of Triana and stroll along Triana street, where you will find many unique shops, buildings, and facades of different artistic styles. The Pérez Galdós House-Museum, located where the famous novelist was born, contains personal mementos, his library, work studio, and other historical treasures that will help you appreciate the importance of this important Realist writer. In Alcaravaneras, you can visit the Pueblo Canario, a unique building inspired by island architecture, where you will find craft and gift shops, an excellent terrace, the Santa Catalina hermitage, and the Néstor Museum. And if you leave Parque Doramas, you can head to Ciudad Jardín, where you will find aristocratic buildings of various architectural styles. Accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Day 8 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Home city
Depending on your flight departure time, today you can spend a few hours continuing to explore Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and its surroundings. You can stroll through the peaceful San Telmo Park and discover its historic hermitage. Additionally, there are two kiosks worth seeing: the La Prensa kiosk and the modernist kiosk. Near Santa Catalina Park, you will find the beautiful building of the Tourist Office, a characteristic work of local Canarian architecture designed by the artist Néstor Martín Fernández de la Torre. The surrounding area is full of shops where you can do some last-minute shopping. It is also possible to visit the Protected Landscape of La Isleta, which was joined to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria by means of a sandy isthmus. This isthmus has aligned volcanic cones, cliffs with a great diversity of birds, the beach of El Cofital, and interesting archaeological sites such as the Cueva de los Canarios. (Note: It is possible to hike through this unusual and desolate place. Check out proposed walking routes. Not included).
Outside Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, twenty minutes south of the capital, is the Viera y Clavijo Canary Botanical Garden, which offers visitors a great variety of plants from the Macaronesian region (Azores, Canary Islands and Cape Verde). Another option is to head to the Bandama Natural Monument, just ten minutes from the Botanical Garden and relatively close to the airport, about twenty minutes away. Discover a unique natural space, where you will find a great variety of native species and traditional crops around this volcanic crater. Don't miss the impressive views from the viewpoint at the top. Present yourself at the airport with sufficient time in advance to return the rental car and take the return flight to your city of origin. Arrival. End of the trip and our services.
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