Join me in discovering Gran Canaria (page 6 of 10)

EMILIANO NATURAL POOL - EL AGUJERO

Location: 28.15972, -15.66396

Emiliano’s natural pool is located in the village of El Agujero. It’s also known as the Bocabarranco pool since it’s right next to the beach with the same name.

It’s quite large and protected from the waves by rocky formations that soften them. The water is crystal clear.

The seabed has different depths in well-defined, safe areas, making it great for family swimming. It’s best to wear water shoes.

There are no lifeguards on site.

There’s a large concrete terrace where you can lie down and sunbathe.

Check the tide conditions before heading there, because when the waves are strong, this pool turns into a real wave pool.

You can see this in the video since we went twice, and the swimming conditions were completely different each time.

There’s a bar, a restaurant, and a Spar supermarket nearby.

https://youtu.be/5ZVaFl916uY

NATURAL POOL OF EL AGUJERO

Location: 28.16158, -15.66067

This natural pool is located in the village of El Agujero. It’s about 400 meters from the natural pool of Emiliano.

It has a very large surface area and is protected from the waves by a barrier of concrete pillars. Its waters are crystal clear.

It consists of three sections with different depths. It’s best to wear water shoes.

There’s no lifeguard on site.

There are small rocky beach areas on either side of the pool. It’s not very comfortable! Some people prefer to lie on the concrete promenade along the coastline.

Check the tide conditions before you go because when the waves are strong, this pool turns into a real wave pool.

You can see this in the video since we went there twice and the swimming conditions were completely different each time.

There’s a bar and a restaurant as well as a Spar supermarket nearby.

https://youtu.be/pE4NtjeFTes

NATURAL POOLS OF ROQUE PRIETO

Location: 28.16972, -15.63539

The natural pools of Roque Prieto are located near the town of Santa María de Guía on the north coast of the island.

There are two man-made pools protected by breakwaters, perfect for enjoying a peaceful swim on a coast where the sea is usually rough.

With shallow areas and others reaching up to three meters deep, this spot is ideal if you're looking for a quiet place to relax away from the crowds.

There’s no lifeguard or services available.

https://youtu.be/OWf_E7U8Dw8

EL ALTILLO NATURAL POOL

Location: 28.14622, -15.56549

The El Altillo natural pool is a rocky cove by the sea located on the coast of Moya.

Seawater collects in a basin with calm, crystal-clear waters. The depth varies with the tides.

We discovered some really pretty seashells there.

There’s a concrete platform for sunbathing or relaxing in the shade.

https://youtu.be/bNniX32xfdw

LOS CHARCONES DE BAÑADEROS – ARUCAS

Location: 28.15083, -15.53761

Los Charcones de Bañaderos is located near the town of Bañaderos on the north coast of the island.

There are two natural pools with crystal-clear water, separated by a low wall, offering different depths.

One of them is particularly large. Marine life is abundant here.

They’re protected from Atlantic Ocean waves by a large rock barrier.

They’re also accessible to people with reduced mobility.

The surrounding wall is perfect for a stroll at low tide. However, be cautious as it can be slippery in some spots.

Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the volcanic rocks, and check the tides to avoid strong swells.

This swimming area is easily accessible and has toilets, showers, restaurants, and plenty of nearby services. There’s also plenty of parking.

https://youtu.be/ULylBZh02mE

NATURAL POOLS OF EL CHARCO DE LAS PALOMAS – ARUCAS

28.15298, -15.53102 Parking 28.15419, -15.53041 Large natural pool 28.15492, -15.52929 Small natural pools

The natural pools of El Charco de Las Palomas are a series of natural pools located in the El Puertillo neighborhood of Arucas, on the northern coast of the island.

Stunningly beautiful, these natural pools are considered some of the best on the island.

They’re situated in the flattest parts of the rocky coastline, away from tourist areas.

Access depends on weather conditions and tides.

The largest and deepest pool is where most people gather.

However, if you head toward the edge of the coastline, on the other side of the cliff overlooking the largest pool, you’ll discover many small natural pools with crystal-clear water where you can also swim.

They’re also very photogenic!

Be careful when reaching these natural pools—the slope is quite steep, and the rocks can be slippery when it’s raining.

Nearby, there’s a large parking lot that can fit about ten cars. Otherwise, there are a few parking spots at the end of the road leading to these pools. The road ends in a cul-de-sac.

https://youtu.be/zvZ_0SpGL4I

NATURAL POOLS OF LA LAJA - LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA

28.06521, -15.419170 Parking 28.06411, -15.418344 Pool 28.06490, -15.418032 Pool

The natural pools of La Laja are located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

These are two natural pools where the water is replenished at high tide. It's best to go at low tide to fully enjoy them.

They are very long and ideal for swimming.

The black sand beach of La Laja, which is nearly a kilometer long, is located to the right of these two pools.

Parking is on the other side of the highway. We need to park there and walk to the pools through a tunnel under the highway.

https://youtu.be/QrlHwkkVL8Q

CUEVA DE LA REINA MORA - LA GARITA

28.00891, -15.37372 Parking 28.00947, -15.37565 Cave – Natural pool

The Cueva de la Reina Mora is a lovely little cave with a natural pool inside. It’s located in the La Garita neighborhood on the east coast of the island.

You can reach it via Calle Narciso. There are two ways to get there. The first, and easiest, is to go to the end of the street and then head down along the coastline. The cave is about 200 meters to the left.

The second option, which we chose, is to descend about 4 meters down the cliffside toward the cave. However, this option is less safe.

Make sure to wear good shoes because the rocks are sharp and the algae are very slippery.

This cave is also known as the "Cave of a Thousand Colors." It’s actually a small cavity carved into volcanic rock, with walls covered in algae and mineral deposits that create brown, green, and ochre stripes.

Inside the cave, there’s a circular turquoise-water pool where you can swim.

It’s essential to check the tide conditions before heading there, as the cave is only safe at low tide.

https://youtu.be/bWuKLGahlhc

NATURAL POOLS OF CASTILLO DEL ROMERAL

Location: 27.79798, -15.45928

The two natural pools of Castillo del Romeral are located on the southeast coast of the island.

Built along a seaside promenade, they offer a safe swimming area as they are protected by a breakwater.

They are easily accessible and have amenities such as a concrete area where you can set up your chair or towel to relax in the sun, showers, and nearby restaurants.

The area is very windy, which is why several wind turbines have been installed in the surroundings.

Local restaurants serve cuisine based on fresh fish caught by the village fishermen.

It’s easy to park in the surrounding streets.

https://youtu.be/W79-Irpqk7U

SANTA BRIGIDA

28.03448, -15.49141 Ermita San José de las Vegas 28.03276, -15.49700 Parking 28.03296, -15.49758 Casa del Vino de Gran Canaria 28.03298, -15.49872 Calle Real 28.03338, -15.49980 Plaza de León y Castillo

The town of Santa Brígida, located about fifteen kilometers from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, sits in the middle of a beautiful plain dotted with fruit trees and vineyards.

You’ll find charming colorful houses that still preserve elements of traditional architecture today.

https://youtu.be/qzH5Oa0KnJY

VEGA DE SAN MATEO

28.01067, -15.53261 Plaza Nuestra Señora del Pino 28.01095, -15.53271 Alameda Santa Ana 28.01069, -15.53221 Calle Principal

Vega de San Mateo is a municipality located in the east-central part of the island in the province of Las Palmas. It was officially founded in 1824 and retains a strong Canarian heritage. The parish church, located on Calle Principal, has a set of bells designed by sculptor José Luján Pérez and brought back from Cuba by local emigrants.

Nearby, the Alameda de Santa Ana and the town hall are also inspired by Canarian tradition.

You’ll also find the "Museo Etnológico La Cantonera," set up in a 300-year-old farmhouse. It features various collections documenting the everyday life of Canarians in the past.

https://youtu.be/2SdDYMp5FJw

TEJEDA

27.99552, -15.61565 El Balcon de la Mujer 27.99523, -15.61515 Sculpture "La Aguadora" 27.99533, -15.61575 Plaza Nuestra Señora del Socorro 27.99495, -15.61561 Plaza Mirador del Ayuntamiento 27.99370, -15.61445 Calle Dr. Domingo Hernández Guerra

Tejeda, a charming village nestled at about 1,000 meters above sea level, is located in the interior of the island.

Made up of pretty white houses with red-tiled roofs, it’s part of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Spain.

Its historic center isn’t very large. A short walk lets you discover some lovely pedestrian streets, including Calle Dr. Domingo Hernández Guerra.

On one side, you’ve got the village restaurants, while on the other side there’s a promenade offering a stunning view of the lower part of the village and the mountains.

The Plaza Mirador del Ayuntamiento is at the end of this street. You’ll find the town hall and its mirador there. The church is nearby.

https://youtu.be/JnlALIdthOk

ARTENARA

28.01988, -15.64662 Plaza de San Matías 28.01955, -15.64676 Mirador de La Esquina 28.01944, -15.64635 Mirador de Unamuno 28.01864, -15.64270 Ermitage de la Virgen de la Cuevita

Artenara is a lovely village located inland. It’s surrounded by a stunning landscape of sheer cliffs and pine forests.

The parish church of San Matías, built in the 19th century, sits at the heart of the village. It features a beautiful wooden ceiling and magnificent stained-glass windows.

The Ermita de la Virgen de la Cuevita, located about 400 meters from the town center, is a troglodyte church built in the 17th century.

It includes a choir, an altar, a pulpit, and a confessional all carved into the rock. It’s dedicated to the Virgen de la Cuevita, the patron saint of cyclists.

Several viewpoints, including the Mirador de Unamuno and the Mirador de La Esquina, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains where you can see the Roque Nublo and the Roque Bentayga rising.

https://youtu.be/LHVaplZ5cdA

VALLESCO

28.05071, -15.57413 Parking 28.05012, -15.57482 Plaza Iglesia San Vicente Ferrer

Valleseco is a municipality located in the north-central part of the island. Situated at around 1,000 meters above sea level, it’s one of the coolest and greenest areas on the island.

This small village can be explored in less than half an hour. You can discover its church, which has an 18th-century German organ, a free ethnographic museum, and some beautiful Canarian houses.

https://youtu.be/hbpUeBR0na8

TEROR

28.06034, -15.54568 Parking 28.06124, -15.54562 Parking 28.06076, -15.54645 Calle Réal de la Plaza 28.05959, -15.54694 Plaza Teresa de Bolívar 28.05967, -15.54757 Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pino 28.05950, -15.54761 Basilica 28.05954, -15.54838 Town Hall 28.05921, -15.54822 Plaza de La Alameda 28.05997, -15.54828 Fuente de la Escalinata - Calle Diputación

The village of Teror, located in the mountains at the center of the island, has a rich historical and religious heritage.

Its historic center is made up of charming streets lined with colorful houses. Several feature wooden balconies and flower-filled patios.

The Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pino, dedicated to the patron saint of Gran Canaria, is a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

A beautiful century-old tree stands at the heart of the Plaza de La Alameda, located next to the basilica.

The Plaza Teresa de Bolívar pays tribute to Teresa de Bolívar, the wife of Simón Bolívar, the liberator of South America. She was born in Teror.

Another must-see site is the artificial waterfall built at the intersection of Diputación and Nueva streets. It’s flanked on either side by a series of steps leading to a large cross at the top of the waterfall.

https://youtu.be/iRcX2U941Ug

SANTA LUCIA DE TIRAJANA

27.90718, -15.53877 Olive Harvest 27.90813, -15.53875 Tribute to the Canarian Rebels 27.91256, -15.54139 Parking 27.91288, -15.54180 Santa Lucia Square 27.91237, -15.54097 Santa Lucia Park

“Olive Harvest” and “Tribute to the Canarian Rebels” are two lovely monuments you’ll find at the entrance of the charming little village of Santa Lucía de Tirajana.

The Santa Lucía Church, built in 1905, overlooks the village square, which features pretty gardens, fountains, and sculptures.

Nearby, you’ll find the Santa Lucía town hall, the Santa Lucía Casco library, and several beautiful old Canarian houses.

https://youtu.be/bxRYG7H9Hg8

FATAGA

27.89036, -15.56311 Fataga Outlook 27.88756, -15.56400 Plaza de San José

Route to stroll through the streets: 27.88799, -15.56539 27.88773, -15.56553 27.88697, -15.56491 27.88754, -15.56487

Fataga is a picturesque village located in the south of the island. Surrounded by ravines, pine trees, and a lush palm grove, it offers a timeless atmosphere with its narrow cobbled streets, small white houses, and wooden balconies.

https://youtu.be/TuEZXOl61wI

SAN BARTOLOMÉ DE TIRAJANA

27.92556, -15.57421 Parking 27.92380, -15.57280 Mirador de La Orilla 27.92524, -15.57301 Plaza de Santiago

The village of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, known as Tunte, is relatively small. So, you can explore it very quickly.

Most of the shops, restaurants, and bars are located on Calle Tamarán, the main road.

The Mirador de La Orilla offers a lovely viewpoint over the Barranco de Tirajana and Santa Lucía.

Walking up Calle Santiago Cazorla, you’ll find the Pancho Guerra Cultural Center and the town hall on Plaza de Santiago.

The parish church, completed in 1922, is right next to Plaza de Santiago.

Wandering through the village streets, we admired some beautiful houses with different architectural styles.

https://youtu.be/N4LDBPxV1Mo

PUERTO DE MOGÁN

27.81911, -15.76296 Parking 27.81701, -15.76617 Little Venice Stroll through the streets behind the port to see the beautiful houses and flowering shrubs 27.81905, -15.76641 Mirador 27.81820, -15.76398 Beach

27.88408, -15.72320 Parking 27.88399, -15.72431 Plaza Sarmiento y Coto – Church

Puerto de Mogán, nicknamed "Little Venice of Gran Canaria" due to its picturesque canals and flower-covered bridges, is a port area in the southwest of the island that’s packed with charming houses, cute cafés, and restaurants.

A long staircase leads to a mirador offering a stunning view of Puerto de Mogán. Don’t miss it!

We also visited the lovely little village of Mogán nestled in a ravine. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking.

This village has an old mill dating back to the 18th century, as well as a church (San Antonio de Padua) whose construction was completed in 1814. You’ll also find a few commemorative monuments there.

https://youtu.be/zfAfvBwjGw4

LA ALDEA DE SAN NICOLAS

27.98598, -15.78141 Plaza de La Alameda/Plaza Vieja

If you're interested in history and local culture, don't hesitate to visit the historic district of La Aldea de San Nicolás.

Its cobbled streets and traditional Canarian architecture offer a great glimpse into the past of this agricultural village.

Plaza de La Alameda was built around the mid-18th century. The Church of San Nicolás de Tolentino is located there, surrounded by pretty houses built between the 18th and 19th centuries.

Take a little stroll through the nearby streets to discover beautiful examples of Canarian architecture.

https://youtu.be/ZYqcDDpb6Fw