Join me in discovering Gran Canaria (page 9 of 10)

VIEWPOINTS - ROUTES GC-604, GC-505, GC-132, GC-42 AND GC-802

ROUTE GC-604

Mirador Norte Presa de Chira

Location: 27.91849, -15.62834

The Mirador Norte Presa de Chira offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the reservoir, the adjacent ravines, and the rugged terrain of the island's central mountain range.

Mirador de Presa de Chira (reservoir dam)

27.90498, -15.63916 Parking 27.90554, -15.64118 Dam

From the parking area located by the roadside, we need to walk about 250 meters to reach the middle of the dam.

This dam was built to collect rainwater and create multiple water reserves, primarily for agriculture. The surrounding landscape is stunning.

You can even spot large carp swimming near the water’s surface.

ROUTE GC-505

Mirador Presa de Soria

Location: 27.90644, -15.67011

The Mirador Presa de Soria is a viewpoint located near the Soria Dam, one of the three large water reservoirs that cross the heart of the island.

Here, you get a spectacular view of the dam’s retaining wall, the deep Soria ravine, and the island’s central mountain range.

ROUTE GC-132

Mirador Lomo del Fregenal

Location: 27.98369, -15.47443

The Mirador Lomo del Fregenal offers a panoramic view of the peaks of the Caldera de Tenteniguada, as well as the ravines of Tecen, San Miguel, and Valsequillo.

NEAR ROUTE GC-42

Mirador Cruz de Herrero

Location: 28.01973, -15.56226

The Mirador Cruz de Herrero offers a panoramic view of the deep ravines of La Mina and Las Lagunetas, surrounded by lush green mountains.

ROUTE GC-802

Mirador Pico de Bandama

Location: 28.03750, -15.45785

The Mirador Pico de Bandama is located at the top of a volcanic cone, just a few kilometers from the village of Santa Brígida.

It offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Bandama Caldera and a large part of the island’s northeast.

https://youtu.be/AKU2Oxb2RNc

EL BUFADERO DE LA GARITA – TELDE

28.00266, -15.37563 Parking 28.00277, -15.37481 Viewpoint 28.00299, -15.37510 Path to get closer 28.00287, -15.37423 El Bufadero

"El Bufadero de La Garita" is a blowhole located in the municipality of Telde.

It’s actually a coastal geological formation where the sea, by pushing water through tunnels or cavities in the rock, creates a natural geyser effect.

This phenomenon occurs when waves hit the rock and force water up through these openings, resulting in an impressive display of water jets and sound.

It’s not recommended to get too close to the geyser because the waves are dangerous and could sweep you away. Besides, you can see it perfectly from the promenade.

https://youtu.be/jzsMn_gbAlk

ROUTE GC-505

The GC-505 road starts near La Playa de Arguineguin in the southwest of the island. It leads to the village of Las Filipinas and the Presa de Soria.

This beautiful scenic route crosses a long valley along the Barranco de Arguineguin. It’s a very popular route among cyclists.

https://youtu.be/KIYT6jIAaF0

FINCA LAS HACIENDAS (LOS MOCANES) LEFT ABANDONED – LAS VEGAS DE VALSEQUILLO

Location: 27.97907, -15.49488

The Hacienda de Los Mocanes is a historic agro-livestock estate located in Las Vegas de Valsequillo. It’s a remarkable example of traditional Canarian rural architecture and agricultural systems.

Dating back to the mid-17th century, the estate was known for its diverse production, including cereals, almonds, olives, and fruits like plums and pears.

There were also vineyards, though the wine produced was often turned into anisette due to its quality.

The estate included facilities such as two cellars, a wine press, and a still for wine processing.

There was also a chapel with images of Saint Joseph and Our Lady of the Conception.

Over the years, the property changed hands several times, with notable owners contributing to its development and preservation.

The estate is no longer maintained, but you can still imagine the beauty of this place in its more prosperous days.

https://youtu.be/ROn3cDXGi_A

SAN JUAN BATTERY IN RUINS - LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA

28.09357, -15.42182 Parking 28.09235, -15.42230 San Juan Battery

The San Juan Battery, located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is an old military installation dating back to 1898. It was built to defend the region against potential invasions, particularly during World War II.

This complex includes bunkers, machine gun nests, and artillery platforms.

Although it’s now in ruins, this site remains an important testament to the island’s military history.

https://youtu.be/03DrcLnnET0

JARDÍN BOTÁNICO CANARIO VIERA Y CLAVIJO - LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA

Location: 28.06516, -15.45957

The Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo, also known as the Canarian Botanical Garden, is a stunning natural haven located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Spanning 27 hectares, it’s the largest botanical garden in Spain. Founded in 1952 by Swedish botanist Eric Sventenius, the garden is dedicated to preserving the unique flora of the Canary Islands, featuring over 500 endemic plant species, some of which are endangered.

The garden includes various zones like a cactus garden, a palm grove, and a laurel forest, showcasing the islands’ rich biodiversity. It’s also home to the Gran Canaria giant lizard, an endemic species.

Entry is free, and the garden is open year-round, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

https://youtu.be/oIVNfvlLwy0

SALINAS DE TENEFÉ

Location: 27.81450, -15.42310

The Salinas de Tenefé are a fascinating historical site located in Pozo Izquierdo. These salt pans, over 250 years old, showcase traditional salt production methods that are still preserved today. They’re renowned for their high-quality virgin salt, rich in essential minerals.

The site also holds architectural and ecological significance, with its endemic flora and role as a stopover for migratory birds. Visitors can explore the area through guided tours or audio guides, learn about the history of salt production, its nutritional aspects, and even take part in tastings.

https://youtu.be/0UW15H2IXxw

DAMS OF LOS PÉREZ, LUGAREJOS & LAS HOYAS

28.04933, -15.66800 Presa de Los Pérez 28.04534, -15.66533 Parking viewpoint Presa de Los Pérez 28.04676, -15.67266 Presa de Lugarejos 28.04137, -15.66903 Ermita de San Antonio 28.04422, -15.67062 Viewpoint 1 28.04265, -15.67539 Viewpoint 2 28.03710, -15.67450 Presa de Las Hoyas

The dams of Los Pérez, Lugarejos, and Las Hoyas are located in the municipality of Artenara.

These three dams are part of a hydraulic system belonging to the Northern Irrigation Community.

The construction of the Los Pérez dam dates back to 1934, and it covers an area of 95,000 square meters. It’s actually the largest of the three tiered reservoirs in the summit ravine and is surrounded by the Tamadaba Natural Park.

This area is known for its natural beauty and tranquility. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers.

https://youtu.be/TGajxU7nuWQ

MONTE PAVÓN, THE LITTLE IRELAND OF GRAN CANARIA

28.05843, -15.62293 View of Monte Pavón 28.05806, -15.62831 Los Cortijos viewpoint

The lush green landscapes of Monte Pavón and its surroundings have earned it the nickname "the little Ireland of Gran Canaria."

With flocks of sheep racing down the slopes of its verdant hills, there’s no doubt that Monte Pavón fully deserves this title.

https://youtu.be/zS4fodJ6cY8

AIRE RÉCRÉATIVE DE LA LAGUNE DE VALLESECO

28.06639, -15.56379 Café de la Laguna 28.06444, -15.56409 Lagune

The Recreational Area of the Valleseco Lagoon is located in the heart of the Doramas Rural Park.

This area is one of the wettest zones on the island, and it can get cold during the winter months. That said, it’s still a good idea to bring warm clothes for the rest of the year, just in case...

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy nature with family or friends, as there are plenty of picnic tables, barbecue areas, and well-marked trails—including one that circles a small lagoon where you can observe different types of birds (ducks, hens with their chicks, etc.) as well as turtles.

There’s also a circular hippodrome nearly 1 km long where you might sometimes see horses training.

Dogs are allowed as long as they’re kept on a leash. Don’t forget to bring bags to clean up after them.

Note that there’s a fee of 1.50 € per person for using the picnic tables and barbecue areas. If your group is very large, you’ll need to get permission from the Valleseco Town Hall. Otherwise, you can pay the fee directly in cash to the on-site attendant.

There’s no charge for people walking around, exercising, or for children under 6.

The official opening hours are from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM. However, since the site is technically always open, you can visit before or after these hours to walk or exercise. Just keep in mind that the restrooms will be closed outside of opening hours, and there’s no lighting after the site closes.

https://youtu.be/AS9Tb5ZXgQg

CLIMBING - FATAGA GORGE

Location: 27.875802, -15.567528

The cliffs of Fataga Gorge are ideal for sport climbing.

Easy access to the site, the number of routes available (over 100), and the wide variety of difficulty levels make it a favorite spot for climbing enthusiasts.

During our visit, we saw people climbing in this area. You can get a glimpse of it in this video.

https://youtu.be/KpdJo5H_6Gs

SURF – EL AGUJERO

El Fronton, located in El Agujero, is a well-known spot for surfers and bodyboarders. The waves can reach 50 to 150 meters in length and are renowned for their world-class surfing quality.

The spot is about 200 meters from La Guancha beach and is suitable for intermediate surfers, given its challenging conditions.

https://youtu.be/_cEM8O6Kikw

RESTAURANT EL CAIRETE - CARRIZAL DE TEJEDA

Location: 27.98024, -15.68068

El Cairete restaurant, located in Carrizal de Tejeda, is a small, authentic, and cozy spot specializing in traditional Spanish cuisine. It’s surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Tucked behind the village’s small church, it offers tables inside as well as outside on a lovely terrace with stunning views of the area.

The portions are generous and delicious, the prices are affordable, and the service is top-notch.

I highly recommend it!

https://youtu.be/sGzCovte-4U

PARAGLIDING FLIGHT OBSERVATION - LOS GILES

Los Giles offers a breathtaking view of the northwest coast of Gran Canaria Island. It’s also the most popular paragliding spot on the island because it allows you to fly over the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Las Canteras Beach safely.

With excellent wind conditions, paragliding can be enjoyed here for most of the year.

During our visit, several paragliders were soaring in the sky. You can get a glimpse of it in this video.

https://youtu.be/_FtohgMBo0E

RESTAURANT LA CUEVITA AYAGAURES

Location: 27.84651, -15.60828

La Cuevita Ayagaures is a charming cave restaurant nestled in the lush Barranco de Ayagaures. It specializes in traditional Canarian dishes.

Its large outdoor terrace is perfect for enjoying a great meal while taking in the stunning panoramic views of the valley.

https://youtu.be/F_ENoV8twCA

STATUES AND MURALS - CRUCE DE ARINAGA

Location: 27.87715, -15.426842

The small town of Cruce de Arinaga, located on the southeast coast of the island, is a true open-air museum.

It features several sculptures with childhood and social themes, as well as beautiful murals displayed along its main avenues and squares.

Each of these sculptures has a special meaning, including:

- the blend of fragility and strength in childhood - progress, freedom, and early personal discoveries - a tribute to the role of women in Canarian society, especially in rural areas - cooperation and the simple rules of children's games - the joy and spontaneity of kids - the importance of preserving a playful culture - community, friendship, and the eternal return of childhood

https://youtu.be/YdgJpbjOD7g

AVIATION MONUMENT (LAS MAJORERAS) & MURALS – CARRIZAL

27.91750, -15.39975 Aviation Monument 27.91420, -15.40128 Murals

The Aviation Monument is a commemorative space dedicated to the centenary of aviation in the Canary Islands. It’s located facing the beginnings of runways 3R/3L at Gran Canaria Airport in Las Palmas.

This small park not only pays tribute to the archipelago’s aeronautical history but also offers a prime viewpoint for watching planes approaching and taking off.

The monument features two historic aircraft, including a CASA C-212A Aviocar, a tactical transport plane designed for the Spanish military, and a Bleriot XI, which is a replica of Louis Blériot’s famous monoplane.

The Bleriot XI, the first aircraft to land on the island, marks the opening of the island to civil aviation in the early 20th century. It symbolizes the pioneers of aviation and the feat of crossing the English Channel in 1909.

Each plane has an explanatory panel detailing its history and technical specifications.

On another note, if you’re a fan of street art, several murals have also been painted on a long wall at the entrance to the city. They’re worth the detour!

https://youtu.be/CsQaJpZCU6A

ARTISTIC UPCYCLING BY ANTONIO PEÑITA - OJOS DE GARZA

Location: 27.94953, -15.38133

Next to Ojos de Garza beach, to the right of the ravine facing the sea, you’ll find Antonio Peñita’s artworks.

For years, this man has been creating original pieces from used objects, including tiles, glass bottles, chairs, sinks, toilets, sports equipment, seashells, and more.

You’ll also see a house that’s truly an example of material recovery and reuse.

https://youtu.be/QRLknw33_G4

RAINBOWS

During our travels around Gran Canaria, we saw several rainbows form during passing showers.

Some of them were truly spectacular. You’ll get a glimpse in this video.

https://youtu.be/wvbNKevHHj8

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Hello, We're heading to Gran Canaria in January—could you recommend a car rental company? Thanks for your reply! Have a great evening