Join me in discovering Gran Canaria (page 4 of 10)

MOGÁN - PRESA DEL MULATO

27.91497, -15.69332 Parking and start of the 1.7 km round-trip trail

The Mulato Dam, located in the Mogán ravine, is a hydraulic structure of great historical and cultural value.

Currently, the Mulato Dam is about 35 meters high and has a reservoir capacity of around 750,000 m³, placing it among the 73 large dams in operation on the island.

In addition to its practical role in water management and retention, the Mulato Dam has become an attractive destination for lovers of rural tourism and historical routes.

Its setting, marked by a blend of traditional engineering and the rugged landscape of a Canarian ravine, appeals to both engineering enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the history and nature of Gran Canaria.

https://youtu.be/zv9ZZdmovNA

LAS GARZAS - PRESA DEL REGANTE

28.13489, -15.62724 Parking 28.13605, -15.62311 Dam endpoint 28.13440, -15.62381 Viewpoint

The Regante Dam, also known as Las Garzas Dam, is located in the municipality of Santa María de Guía.

Its main purpose is to retain water from the Pérez, Lugarejos, and Las Hoyas dams through a canal about 15 km long, ensuring irrigation in an environment where water availability is limited.

Beyond its practical function, the Regante Dam area has become a popular spot for hiking and nature tourism.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore a 3.1 km loop trail that offers a variety of natural scenery, endemic trees, areas with abundant wildflowers, and stunning panoramic views of the reservoir.

While direct access to the dam is sometimes restricted due to safety measures, the walk around it is highly appreciated by those seeking a peaceful stroll in nature.

During our visit, we were able to observe aquatic birds and huge fish, which we think were catfish.

https://youtu.be/uMPAreViwaw

RUTA LA PLATA - PRESA CHO FLORES & EL CHARCO HONDO

27.93031, -15.59804 Start of the trail 27.93964, -15.60235 Charco Hondo

We started our hike on the trail called "Camino de la Plata," located near the Mirador Degollada de la Cruz Grande.

The Camino de la Plata is an old royal path that crosses the island's magnificent and rugged interior via a trail that long served as a communication route between the southern and northern sides of the island.

This route originated from the need to transport large herds of livestock in search of abundant pastures in the southern lands after the winter rainy season.

We only covered part of this route, 3.4 km round trip, to reach Charco Hondo, located practically at the top of the mountain.

As you'll see in this video, the trail is well-marked, winding, and quickly climbs toward the mountain's summit.

The panoramic views of the region are truly stunning.

https://youtu.be/1LsHRyiQC_Q

VEGA DE ACUSA - CANDELARIA DAM

28.01069, -15.68153 Parking 28.01193, -15.68191 Dam at 675 m

The Candelaria Dam is located in Vega de Acusa. The area surrounding the dam is very popular with hiking and nature enthusiasts.

We parked our vehicle by the side of the road and walked down a gravel path that quickly led us to the Candelaria Dam.

The site is very photogenic and offers lovely views of the emerald-colored waters of the reservoir.

We decided to continue our hike along the reservoir and spotted several ducks as well as a kestrel.

https://youtu.be/-5ALC21XGYk

HERMITAGE OF LA CANDELARIA – ACUSA SECA VIEWPOINT

28.01005, -15.68235 Hermitage of La Candelaria 28.00858, -15.68032 Viewpoint

The Hermitage of La Candelaria is a small chapel located at Plaza Vega de Acusa. It was closed during our visit.

However, we took the opportunity to go for a hike on a trail near the chapel.

It leads to a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Tejeda ravine, various rock formations including Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga, the village of La Solana where the Cuevas del Rey are located, as well as the small village of Acusa Seca where you can also find caves and a few troglodyte houses available for rent.

The landscape is magnificent.

https://youtu.be/pZeFDW_WwUo

VALSEQUILLO DE GRAN CANARIA – ROQUE LA VELA

27.97573, -15.53331 Parking 27.97605, -15.53348 Start of the trail 27.97577, -15.53568 Roque La Vela 27.97612, -15.53713 Return via the dirt path

Roque La Vela is an impressive natural structure that has withstood the effects of erosion.

To get there, we took a ±2.4 km loop trail lined with cacti that quickly leads to the top of the cliff where Roque La Vela is located.

The panoramic views of the lush green valley below are stunning throughout the entire route.

In the second half of the hike, the cacti become sparser, giving way to a variety of pretty flowers that line the trail.

https://youtu.be/7mjpmoq2otU

AYAGAURES DAM – GC-602

27.85146, -15.60733 Parking 27.83450, -15.60180 End of our route (3.1 km one way)

The GC-602 road between Ayagaures Dam and Arteara is a gravel path about 16 km long.

This path is mainly used by hikers and cyclists.

We only covered a tiny portion of it—just 3.1 km (one way)—before turning back.

Still, this short stretch gave us stunning panoramic views of not only the Ayagaures Dam but also the Ayagaures ravine and the Los Vicentes ravine.

https://youtu.be/7nBRQcPDW7I

LOMO DEL PALO - MONTE PAVÓN TRAIL

28.06007, -15.62944 Parking 28.05389, -15.62971 Start of the trail 28.04734, -15.62582 Galeote Cross

We parked at the Monte Pavón recreational area and walked along the main road to reach the start of the trail, which is 700 meters from the parking lot.

There are farms along this road, and we got to see flocks of sheep.

There are signs along the road indicating the start of the trail. The trail itself is on red dirt (can be muddy if it has rained).

The trail crosses several lush valleys and leads to the top of a hill where the Galeote Cross, an important monument on the island of Gran Canaria, has been erected.

This wooden cross is considered a landmark for hikers and pilgrims and marks a strategic viewpoint, offering a 360° panoramic view of the island.

We then retraced our steps to return to the parking lot. The total distance we covered was 3.2 km. However, we could have continued the hike to complete a 5-kilometer loop.

https://youtu.be/D_8FzBQRFa4

LUGAR LA LAGUNA - LEVADA

28.06421, -15.56204 Start of the levada 28.07197, -15.55707 Turn left 28.07254, -15.55800 Turn left – Carratera del Pico

After visiting the La Laguna de Valleseco Recreational Area, we went for a 2.6 km loop hike on a trail near the site.

Actually, this trail (Lugar La Laguna - Osorio - Levada) is a 6.9 km loop. However, we only walked half of it since we turned left roughly halfway along the ridge and returned via the road to our starting point.

As the name suggests, the trail follows a levada. Some sections are very narrow. Be careful, especially if it has rained, as the trail could become muddy and very slippery.

The route is pleasant and offers lovely views of green hills dotted with houses and small villages.

https://youtu.be/eg8No3V7hqI

FATAGA DAM & GORGE

27.8745, -15.5662 Parking 27.8853, -15.5664 Landmark 27.8807, -15.5657 Return via the road

The Fataga Gorge is a canyon that offers a stunning panorama with its emerald-colored watercourse and numerous palm trees.

We parked our vehicle near the Fataga Dam, and as we approached it, we saw people climbing the steep high cliffs.

We then headed toward the dam, which we crossed to reach the trail along the left bank of the watercourse.

The cliffs surrounding us are multicolored, creating a breathtaking landscape. Even a turtle surfaced to say hello!

The trail is easy to walk and is lined not only with beautiful palm trees but also cacti, pretty flowers, and fruit trees.

We returned via the road to complete the loop. In total, we covered a distance of 3 km.

https://youtu.be/ceKk1NbXJqU

MOGÁN BEACH

Location: 27.81771, -15.76298

Mogán Beach, stretching 200 meters, is nestled in a small bay on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. It has a family-friendly vibe.

There are outdoor showers and ramps for wheelchair and stroller access. You can rent sun loungers and parasols here.

The calm waters are perfect for snorkeling, and you can rent a mask and snorkel on-site.

You’ll also find water activities like jet-skiing, kayaking, or pedal boating.

Nearby, there are shops, restaurants, and bars.

https://youtu.be/8-blqJiUD3c

TAURITO BEACH

27.815537, -15.753642 Parking 27.814588, -15.753293 Beach 27.813273, -15.752518 Cueva de Lucas

Taurito Beach, which is 150 meters long, is located in the municipality of Mogán in the southwest of the island. It’s famous for its views and stunning sunsets.

It’s surrounded by several hotels, including Taurito Princess, TUI BLUE Suite Princess, and Mogán Princess.

The beach is equipped with sun loungers, parasols, showers, restrooms, and a café-bar.

You can also rent water sports equipment there.

Additionally, at low tide, you can explore a series of caves. They’re located on the side of the beach when you’re facing the sea and are easily accessible.

Behind this beach, you’ll find a water park and a mini-golf course.

https://youtu.be/ko9YnPe1Bmk

TAURO BEACH

Location: 27.79571, -15.72749

If you're looking for a beach away from the crowds and tourist resorts, Tauro Beach, located north of the village of Puerto Rico on the southwest coast of the island, is the perfect spot. It’s mostly frequented by locals.

Nestled in a sheltered cove, this fine, golden-sand beach is ideal for swimming since there are few waves and the slope is gentle. However, this beach isn’t lifeguarded.

There’s no equipment rental, and I didn’t see any showers or restrooms near the beach.

There are a few restaurants near the beach, including Vistamar, Guantánamo, and Tauro.

There are parking spaces around the buildings near the beach as well as on the main road leading to the beach access path.

Alternatively, there are also a few parking spots along the GC-500 road that leads to Amadores Beach. Just follow the trail down to Tauro Beach.

https://youtu.be/qYs6GbiziH8

AMADORES BEACH

27.79032, -15.72280 Parking 27.78910, -15.72360 Beach 27.79050, -15.72369 Paid public restrooms

Amadores Beach is a very popular beach located on the southern coast of the island. Its waters are calm and crystal-clear.

It has also been awarded the Blue Flag for water quality and beach safety.

It’s an artificial beach, but there’s no doubt it’s one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

We’ve visited this spot several times, and the color of the water—even though it varied each time—was truly stunning.

You’ll find amenities like sun loungers and parasols for rent, showers, restrooms, and a variety of bars and restaurants. Water activities are also available.

Parking spaces are free and plentiful.

It’s also easily accessible by bus from nearby resorts or via the coastal trail from Puerto Rico.

https://youtu.be/QVTi2TSqGpA

PUERTO RICO BEACH

27.78611, -15.71165 Parking 27.78463, -15.71361 Beach

Puerto Rico Beach is located in a tourist area with a large marina on the southern coast. Its waters are calm and crystal clear.

This beautiful family-friendly beach, stretching 280 meters, is perfect for kids.

You’ll find amenities like sun loungers and parasols for rent, showers, restrooms, as well as a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops. Water activities are also available.

It’s easy to get there, whether by car or bus.

There are several parking areas near the beach, but they are paid.

https://youtu.be/il3PbCF-6j4

ANFI DEL MAR BEACH

27.77533, -15.69519 Free parking 27.77271, -15.69604 Beach

Playa Anfi del Mar is an artificial beach located in the south of the island. It sits in the municipality of Mogán, between the towns of Puerto Rico and Arguineguín.

Its fine white sand, turquoise and calm waters, and surrounding palm trees create a pleasant tropical atmosphere.

Numerous services are available for visitors: restaurants, bars, a marina, changing rooms, showers, restrooms, sun lounger and parasol rentals, as well as kayaks and pedal boats.

Near the beach, there’s a shopping center with supermarkets and cafés.

Several free parking spaces are available along the GC-500 road, about 600 meters from the beach.

Alternatively, paid parking (blue zones) is also available a bit closer to the beach.

https://youtu.be/KadBIoQX8ZM

PATALAVACA BEACH

27.77006, -15.68770 Parking 27.77013, -15.68861 Beach

Patalavaca Beach is a seaside resort located on the southern coast of the island.

Swimming conditions are generally good, but winds can sometimes cause bigger waves. Lifeguards are on duty year-round.

You can rent sun loungers and parasols there.

There’s also a promenade along the beach where you’ll find restaurants, bars, and shops.

https://youtu.be/LNMKiqUh4Pk

MELONERAS BEACH

27.74513, -15.61096 Parking 27.74494, -15.61173 Beach

Playa Meloneras is a 500-meter-long beach located in the heart of Maspalomas on the southern coast of Gran Canaria.

It’s the ideal beach for those looking to escape the tourist crowds since it’s not packed. Just note that there are pebbles right before you enter the water.

Sun loungers and parasols are available for rent. There are also several restaurants, bars, and cafés right next to the beach, along with public restrooms and showers.

A stroll along the promenade leads to a chic neighborhood filled with boutiques and designer shops.

There are several free parking spaces at the top of the promenade leading to this beach.

https://youtu.be/C2odQ5XQUp0

MASPALOMAS BEACH

Location: 27.73588, -15.59470

Maspalomas Beach, nearly 3 km long, is located in the south of the island. It’s world-famous for its dunes, which offer a striking contrast with the ocean in the background.

Nearby stands the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse.

To the west, the beach offers services like sun lounger and parasol rentals, as well as showers. You’ll also find several bars and restaurants there.

As the beach extends toward Punta de Maspalomas, areas for nudism begin to appear.

https://youtu.be/gNW2nQJvgJM

PLAGE DES ANGLAIS (PLAYA DEL INGLÉS)

27.75372, -15.56937 Parking 27.75362, -15.56821 Beach

Playa del Inglés is one of the island’s most famous tourist beaches.

Located in the south of the island, near the Maspalomas Dunes Special Nature Reserve, it stretches for almost three kilometers and is home to numerous hotels and apartments.

Its waters are calm and perfect for swimming. Lifeguards are on duty.

Sun loungers and parasols are available for rent, and there are also toilets and showers.

The promenade along the beach is lined with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.

https://youtu.be/sE-emW4-In0