Gran Canaria
Exploring Gran Canaria: A Day in Las Palmas and Beyond
November 30, 2023
On my visit to Gran Canaria, I embarked on a nine-hour tour through Las Palmas, the island’s vibrant capital, and its surrounding landscapes. This excursion offered a mix of breathtaking scenery, dramatic altitude changes, and surprising temperature shifts as we ascended and descended the island’s rugged mountains. Gran Canaria, often referred to as a "continent in miniature," is known for its diverse terrain, from sandy beaches to verdant hillsides, making it a must-visit destination in the Canary Islands.
First Stop: The Botanical Garden of the Duchess of Arucas
Our first stop was the Jardín Botánico de la Marquesa de Arucas (Botanical Garden of the Duchess of Arucas), one of the island’s most enchanting landmarks. Nestled near the northern coast of Gran Canaria, this 19th-century botanical garden was established by the aristocratic family of the Marquis of Arucas. It serves as a lush haven for both native and exotic plants, showcasing Gran Canaria’s rich biodiversity.
As we wandered through the garden's serene pathways, we marveled at an array of fascinating flora, from towering palm trees to vibrant flowering shrubs. The botanical garden also houses an impressive collection of birds, whose lively chatter added to the ambiance of this tranquil retreat. Visitors can enjoy not only the beauty of the plants but also a sense of the island’s colonial history, as the garden is tied to Arucas’s legacy as a cultural and agricultural hub.
This stop offered a perfect introduction to the natural and cultural richness of Gran Canaria, blending ecological wonder with historical charm.
Discovering the Charms of Teror: A Historic Gem of Gran Canaria
Our next stop was the picturesque town of Teror, one of Gran Canaria’s most historic and culturally significant destinations. Nestled in the island’s lush interior, this charming town is renowned for its colonial architecture, religious heritage, and welcoming atmosphere.
A highlight of the visit was the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino (Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine), a stunning 18th-century church dedicated to the island’s patron saint, Nuestra Señora del Pino. According to local legend, the Virgin Mary appeared beneath a pine tree here in 1481, shortly after the Spanish conquest of Gran Canaria. This miraculous event made Teror an important pilgrimage site, and the basilica now stands as a symbol of the town’s deep spiritual roots.
After exploring the basilica, I took a leisurely stroll through the town’s cobblestone streets, lined with beautifully preserved Canarian balconies and colorful colonial homes. The local community’s warmth and hospitality were evident, as residents shared friendly greetings and offered insight into Teror’s rich traditions. Despite a playful nickname some locals use—referring to themselves as “Terorists”—their charm and humor added to the town's appeal.
Tejeda for Lunch
The picturesque village of Tejeda, located in the mountainous heart of Gran Canaria, was our next destination. Known for its breathtaking vistas and traditional charm, Tejeda is often regarded as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Upon arrival, we paused to admire the stunning views.
After soaking in the scenery, we made our way to a local restaurant to enjoy a typical Canarian meal, a highlight of the day. The meal featured regional specialties, offering a true taste of the island’s culinary heritage, including dishes from locally sourced ingredients that reflect Gran Canaria's agricultural traditions.
As we continued our journey, we stopped to capture more photos of Tejeda’s idyllic surroundings, including its whitewashed houses perched against the backdrop of rugged mountains. A chance encounter with a friendly local chicken added a touch of humor and charm to the experience, leaving me with yet another fond memory of this enchanting village.
Tejeda, with its blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and authentic Canarian culture, offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into the essence of Gran Canaria.
Bandama Natural Monument: Exploring Gran Canaria’s Volcanic Past
One of the most striking stops on our Gran Canaria journey was the Bandama Natural Monument, home to one of the largest extinct volcanic craters on the island. This awe-inspiring geological feature, formed millions of years ago, offers visitors a rare glimpse into the island’s volcanic origins. The Caldera de Bandama, as it’s known locally, spans about 1,000 meters in diameter and reaches depths of up to 200 meters, making it an impressive natural landmark.
As we reached the viewpoint, the panoramic view was nothing short of spectacular. From here, you can see not only the massive crater, with its steep slopes and rich vegetation, but also the surrounding landscape of Gran Canaria. The town of Las Palmas and the port below appeared in the distance, offering a unique perspective of the island's bustling maritime life. If you look closely, you can even spot the cruise ship where we had parked earlier—adding a sense of scale to the vastness of the volcanic terrain.
Bandama’s rich geological history and its stunning views make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Gran Canaria’s natural beauty. The crater, surrounded by lush flora and fauna, is a symbol of the island’s ancient volcanic past and a reminder of the forces that shaped Gran Canaria into the island it is today.
Exploring Las Palmas: History and Culture in the Heart of Gran Canaria
Our visit to Las Palmas, the largest city we explored on Gran Canaria, was a perfect introduction to the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. Conveniently located next to the port, where our cruise ship was docked, Las Palmas served as a gateway to both the past and present of this Canary Island gem.
We began our tour at the Casa Museo de Colón, or the Christopher Columbus Museum, a historical landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's role in the Age of Exploration. In 1492, Columbus stayed in this very house while his ship was being repaired after a stopover in Las Palmas before crossing the Atlantic to the New World. The museum showcases artifacts from Columbus’s time, along with exhibits that detail his voyages and the city’s connections to global trade and exploration during the Spanish Empire.
As we wandered through the streets, we were immersed in the city’s traditional Spanish architecture. The narrow alleys and picturesque squares lead to the vibrant town center, where locals and visitors mingle among historic buildings and lively markets. The contrast between the modern port area and the charming old town highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Las Palmas.
This blend of history, culture, and urban life made Las Palmas a truly memorable stop during our Gran Canaria tour.
