How to experience authentic Gran Canaria and avoid artificial tourist areas created for the masses? I would recommend the most charming coastal or inland villages on Gran Canaria for you to stop at.
Only in such places will you learn curiosities and inspiring stories from native islanders. Moreover, you will spot indigenous symbols, colorful buildings, cave houses in the mountains, and exotic plants that will amaze any plant lover.
What makes Gran Canaria so special?
- Microclimates – Dubbed a “miniature continent,” this island features diverse landscapes, from arid deserts in the South to lush greenery in the North.
- Greenery – Gran Canaria’s climate fosters iconic plant species like bougainvilleas, hibiscus, and strelizia, alongside varied vegetation such as palm groves and pine forests.
- The Canarian dialect (habla canaria) – The melodic local language contrasts with mainland accents, characterized by rapid speech and occasional elisions, influenced by Canarian Spanish settlers.
- Surf & Sand – Discover excellent beginner-friendly surfing beaches on Gran Canaria, such as El Puertillo in Arucas, providing a wild, dramatic, and satisfying nature experience.
- Hiking & The Camino de Gran Canaria – Trekking enthusiasts can traverse the scenic island, starting either from north to south or east to west, with captivating landscapes.
- Festivities & Celebrations – Local culture includes many traditional events. It’s enjoyable to participate in these celebrations with locals.
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Recommendations for rural Gran Canaria exploration, minimizing encounters with crowds.
When crafting this guide, I specifically focused on researching the following:
- Location
- Attractions
- Festivities & Celebrations
- Inspiring stories & Curiosities
- Food & Drink
- What is nearby
1. Teror
Teror lies in Gran Canaria’s north, 540m above sea level, 20km from the capital, and 70km from Maspalomas and Tejeda. Its lush landscape and fertile soil make it perfect for agriculture. Its ample water and vegetation preserve beautiful natural spots. The town’s streets and buildings display colonial architecture, enhancing its charm and making it a must-see destination for visitors.
The name “Teror” is believed to have originated from the Guanche word “Tara,” referring to a type of ancient palm tree found in the area.
The historic center of Teror’s Plaza del Pino hosts the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pino and a 300-year-old Ficus tree. Colorful houses with Canarian balconies and beautiful flowers encircle the town center.
As a foodie I could not miss the Sunday street market (Mercadillo de Teror). It definitely deserves a visit, attracting visitors with handcrafted products and local delicacies such as Queso de Flor cheese. I recommend tasting candied hibiscus flowers and aloe vera, iconic to Gran Canaria.
You can also buy local herbs like laurel or eucalyptus leaves as souvenirs, along with honey (Miel de Palma), banana marmalade, or Almendrados, almond-based cookies. My personal favorites were the local pastries, a must-try.
Unique festivals
One of the most important celebration is the Water Festival, celebrated in July, to give thanks for the year’s rains, with festivities including Carnival and Latin Music. The statue of the Virgin is carried through the streets in a grand parade, accompanied by marching bands and adorned with flowers and offerings from the faithful. Another key feature of the Water Festival is the traditional “bath of the Virgin.” This ritual involves sprinkling water on the statue of the Virgin del Pino as a symbol of purification and blessing. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the town and its residents.
September hosts Fiestas del Pino, commemorating the Virgen del Pino with the Pine Festival. During the Fiestas del Pino, the streets of Teror are adorned with pine branches and colorful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. The highlight of the celebration is the procession of the Virgen del Pino, where the statue of the Virgin is paraded through the town accompanied by traditional music and dancing.
Wandering chicken
Did you know that in Teror you can spot wild chicken wandering freely around the city, sometimes sitting on the trees or on small building roofs? There are many wandering chickens in Teror due to the town’s rural setting and traditional agricultural practices allowing them to roam freely.
Teror’s traditional cuisine intricately links regionally grown products like potatoes, maize, beans, and courgette to its culinary heritage. Locals actively incorporate pork, especially in stews, locally crafted blood sausages, or chorizos de Teror, emphasizing its essential role. You shouldn’t miss the delicious tortillas at Cafetería Pabeli, especially the chicken one. It’s common to find Conejo en Salmonero dish in restaurants featuring marinated rabbit meat in a flavourful saurce.
During your visit don’t miss the opportunity to explore the aisles of local supermarkets stocked with unique local products that showcase the flavors and traditions of Gran Canaria. Renowned products stand out, such as Gofio, toasted flour, and pastries and bread from small artisan bakeries or larger brand-name factories.
I relish exploring the local grocery stores, where exotic fruits and sweet specialities await.
During my stay at my friend’s, I learned they collect water from the nearby natural spring. Fuente Agría in Teror is famous for its mineral-rich waters, attracting visitors who fill containers for drinking or medicinal use.
A tranquil nature retreat on farmland near Teror
The entirety of the area was formerly owned by the firstborn of the Manrique de Lara family, who oversaw the main house at the center of the Finca, cultivated the surrounding crops, and established and tended to the diverse forests.
Presently, it is managed by the Cabildo Insular de Gran Canaria, which maintains the grounds, operates a hostel for groups, and arranges educational trips focusing on environmental awareness, as well as occasional weekend sporting events.
The main house is a great example of the traditional Canarian housing architecture (“casa patio”) featuring whitewashed walls, wooden beam, terracotta tiles and greenery cascading from balconies adorning the patio area.
Eager adventurers set out on guided nature walks, exploring trails that lead through ancient forests and indigenous plant species in the Parque Rural de Doramas. Make sure you get a permission to enter the farmland and trails upfront.
The educational trail in Parque Rural de Doramas that covers an area of 4 hectares with representation of the species and ecosystems of Monteverde Gran Canaria and information for visitors to identify 18 species of trees of the Doramas Rural Park. As part of an EU project, efforts are underway to reintroduce an endemic species that vanished from the island over a century ago. This initiative also includes planting over 250,000 trees to restore the habitat of this species.
Many visitors recommended visiting the romantic and well-maintainted Classic Garden located next to the Casona de Osorio where you can see a collection of unique plants indigenous to the Canary Islands
For those seeking a taste of local tradition, hands-on workshops offer insight into Canarian craftsmanship. Every year from September 15 to October 15 the Nature Classroom provides teaching resources along with specialized personnel who support the group’s educational activities.
Near Teror are several notable destinations: Arucas, renowned for its historical sites; Valleseco, famous for its cider production; San Mateo, known for its agricultural heritage; and the Finca Canarias Aloe Vera plantation, located near Fataga Valley.
2. Agaete – the place of water
Agaete’s authentic charm, especially Puerto de Las Nieves, known for its white and blue houses and dramatic cliffs, attracts locals. Situated 39 km northwest of Las Palmas, Agaete features two stone beaches, Las Nieves and Muelle, along with natural pools at Las Salinas. The name “Agaete” is believed to stem from the Guanche language, signifying “place of water.
In Agaete, an annual highlight is the Festival of the Rama, held every August to honor Nuestra Señora de las Nieves. Villagers venture to Tamadaba to collect tree branches (known as the Rama). Afterwards they will parade to Puerto de las Nieves beach, where they perform an ancient rain ritual by beating the sea with branches.
Tasting tours
The seafood restaurants in Puerto Las Nieves, including Bar Salsamora Boutique and Marisquería Ragù, offer delightful tapas and seafood experiences.
Additionally, the family-owned farm La Finca La Laja, produces a very selected Arabica coffee and cultivates oranges and tropical fruits. Their undulating vineyards yield exquisite Canarian wines crafted from unique local grape varieties like listán and malvasía. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the journey of coffee and wine from plant to cup. They can also taste tropical fruits, tour the chapel and winery, and end with a tasting session.
If you are a sheep’s cheese enthusiast, head to the prize-winning Quesería La Caldera, close to Fagajesto. They maintain a long family tradition of cheese-making. The family offers in-depth tastings showcase a variety of artisanal cheeses crafted from the sheep’s milk. Alternatively, guests can participate in a masterclass on cheese-making held on the sun-soaked terrace overlooking the pine-dusted hills.
Other nearby attractions include the town of La Aldea, located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Agaete. Historically, it was isolated due to its rugged terrain, making access difficult. La Aldea is famous for its agricultural products such as tomatoes and tropical fruits.
Archeological findings nearby
If you are interested in archeological sites, go to Galdar, which features Cueva Pintada (Painted Cave), showcasing ancient indigenous cave paintings.
Another place nearby, El Roque is renowned for its quaint village ambiance and traditional Canarian white-houses. The practice of whitewashing buildings, including houses, is common in many Canary Islands towns and villages. The white color not only helps to reflect sunlight and keep the buildings cool in the island’s warm climate but also contributes to the characteristic charm and aesthetic appeal of the area.
Swimming enthusiasts and nature lovers can visit Las Salinas de Agaete, natural pools renowned for their therapeutic properties and stunning coastal views, located about 1.5 kilometers from Agaete.
3. Tejeda
Nestled among mountains and ravines, Tejeda claims acclaim as one of Gran Canaria’s most beautiful villages, situated 45 km from Las Palmas in the island’s mountainous heart, reachable via winding routes.
“Tejeda” derives from the Spanish word “teja,” meaning roof tile, possibly alluding to the mountain ridges’ shape, resembling overlapping tiles.
Key attractions include the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Socorro church, La Tosca district for hiking and exploring geological features, and the Folk Museum for local crafts, clothing, and history.
The almond trail
In January, visitors enjoy the three-day Almond Blossom Festival, featuring Canarian folklore, music, dance, art, sports, and agricultural fairs, as well as local delicacies like frangollo and carnival tortillas alongside traditional dishes and stews.
It’s crucial to note that Tejeda is in the island’s central high and cold region, differing greatly from southern Gran Canaria’s weather. At Bar Restaurante Sombras del Nublo, I enjoyed a local fish in onion sauce, a glass of Ágala wine, and bienmesabe dessert. Then, I visited Dulceria Nublo for famous Tejeda pastries.
Near Teror, discover the charming village of Artenara, famous for its breathtaking views and traditional cave houses. Experience Arte Gaia Restaurant, a family-run establishment showcasing locally sourced products through its unique concept as a restaurant, eco-tasting venue, gastrocave, and shop, allowing visitors to sample and purchase goods from the area.
4. Arucas
Arucas, located in the North of Gran Canaria, sits 17 km from the capital city, Las Palmas. It beautifies pedestrian streets with flowers and plants, highlighting Europe’s oldest rum factory, encircled by banana plantations, in its magnificent old town.
The town is famous for the basalt stone (Piedra de Arucas) prized for its versatility, durability, and aesthetic qualities. It’s often seen in the facades of buildings, including churches, such as San Juan Bautista (La Catedral de Arucas), and historic landmarks.
The entire structure of San Juan Bautista (La Catedral de Arucas), including the façade, towers, and intricate details, is built using basalt stone quarried from the area.
Close to the church you will find the stunning Parque de las Flores, alternatively named El Parque Municipal de Arucas or Parque de Gourié with a varied botanical collection. Native plants include dragon trees, Canary Island palm, and Canary Islands pine. The park also boasts white broom, bencomia, til, barbusano, and others.
Rum, sugar cane and bananas
Few realize that the Canary Islands have produced sugar cane since the 14th century. Since the 15th century, Arucas has cultivated sugar cane and now focuses on rum production. There are sweets reflecting the sugar cane heritage such as: Dulce de Caña or Panela de Papelón.
Passionate about rum? Head to Arehucas Rum Distillery for guided tours, tasting various flavors like chocolate, lemon, mint, and caramel, offering a delightful sensory experience.
Another culinary opportunity is provided by Finca La Esperanza, where they offer guided tours of their open-air banana museum, culminating in sampling sessions featuring jams, liquor, wine, and, of course, bananas. Finca La Esperanza was founded on the fundamental principle that our food should be cultivated in harmony with the natural rhythms of the organic world.
In Arucas, discover top farm-to-table restaurants emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional Canarian cuisine. Restaurante El Ingenio, near Arehucas Rum Distillery, serves dishes crafted with local produce and meats.
At De Enyesque you can sample local wine, honey rum (ron miel), and liqueurs infused with flavors such as banana, coffee, or herbs. You can try to pair these local liquors with small plates of tapas or Canarian snacks, known as “enyesques,”.
Key festive events to celebrate
- Feast of San Juan Bautista: This festival honors St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of Arucas, typically celebrated around June 24th with religious ceremonies, processions, music, dance, and traditional Canary Islands festivities.
- Fiesta de la Virgen de la Luz: Celebrated in September, this festival venerates the Virgin of Light. The festivities include religious rituals, cultural events, music, and dance, bringing the community together to honor their spiritual heritage.
- Feria de Arucas: Arucas Fair is an annual event usually held in late August or early September, showcasing the municipality’s culture, gastronomy, crafts, and agriculture.
A delightful barbecue experience
Located just 12 km from Arucas, the village of San José del Álamo offers an immersive BBQ experience with its scenic outdoor setting and traditional Canarian barbecue specialties, providing guests with a flavorful journey through local cuisine amidst nature.
For an authentic beach experience, consider visiting El Puertillo beach nearby. El Puertillo beach bar / restaurant El Dorado Del Norte offers a laid-back seaside atmosphere with refreshing drinks and snacks, perfect for enjoying a relaxing day by the ocean.
5. Montaña de las Tierras & Guayadeque
The Guayadeque Ravine, known for its cave homes, is located near Agüimes and Ingenio, a 15-minute drive from Agüimes and 45 km from Las Palmas. It beckons as an intriguing destination for exploration, even if you’re simply seeking a nearby restaurant, it’s worth venturing to experience its unique charm.
The Caves of Guayadeque are visible along the route to Montaña de las Tierras. Potentially once inhabited by locals, now function as eateries, shops, or charming rental accommodations, like Ca Juani Guayadeque in Agüimes. Montaña de las Tierras is a charming village boasting cave houses and breathtaking views. You will be amazed by the landscape and the ravine slopes covered by numerous species of local vegetation. If you wish to learn more about the ancient cave inhabitants and their customs firsthand visit the Guayadeque Interpretation Center.
There are three cave restaurants in the area offering typical local cuisine. My friends and I opted for Restaurant Vega, a hidden gem worth the drive into the hills. We indulged in shared dishes like tuna croquettes, ropa vieja with papas arrugadas and mojo picón, garlic prawns, and cuttlefish. Additionally, cave shops offer native flower honey, such as Multifloral Cuevas de Guayadeque.
Find some time to enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by towering cliffs, indigenous flora, and the soothing sound of the Guayadeque River flowing nearby. The picnic area in Guayadeque is typically located within the Guayadeque Ravine itself. It provides opportunities for visitors to relax, dine, and appreciate the beauty of the Guayadeque Ravine.
If you seek for a leisurely walk from Montaña de las Tierras, head to Lereta village, leaving your car at the nearby Restaurant Vega parking lot; observe multicolored beehives, enjoy valley views, and pass by.
Many visitors of
Delve into the agricultural practices
- Visit Finca Canarias Aloe Vera in Fataga to delve into aloe vera properties. This area, known as the “Valley of Thousand Palm Trees,” is celebrated for its world heritage status in Gran Canaria. Engage in hands-on experiences such as harvesting aloe vera leaves and participating in workshops to create your own aloe-based products.
- Los Palotes Farm Estate in Telde offers a tranquil escape amidst lush greenery and scenic vistas. Nestled in the heart of Telde’s countryside it creates a serene oasis for relaxation and exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in rural life, with opportunities to explore the farm’s agricultural activities or enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences/
- Playa de San Agustín offers a serene coastal escape, featuring golden sands, gentle waves, and stunning natural scenery for relaxation.
6. Artenara, a hidden place between rocks
Artenara, means “hidden place between rocks” in the aborigines’ language.Rather than just parking and walking, venture further for stunning vistas. The town is Gran Canaria’s highest village, with five viewpoints, 24 km from Las Palmas. Immerse yourself in the cultural landscape by hiking diverse trails to Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria.
The municipality features ancient cave houses, which were once widespread until the mid-20th century. Nearby, you can visit the Casas Cueva de Artenara Ethnographic Museum. Additionally, you can explore the Caves of Acusa Seca, although they are not open to the public. Further uphill, you can discover Airbnb rentals in well-maintained cave houses, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy the landscapes and hiking trails.
The five viewpoints
Artenara boasts five viewpoints. The Esquina Viewpoint, Balcon de Unamuno, and Mountain of La Cilla offer views of Roque Bentayga and Roque Nublo. The Heart of Jesus (Corazón de Jesús) provides views of Artenara, while La Atalaya showcases a steel cactus sculpture. The Solanita Viewpoint reveals a recreational area with the municipal swimming pool.
Within proximity to Artenara lies the Mirador Astronómico de Pinos de Gáldar, just 7 km away. This observation deck offers easy access and parking. Visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views, spotting the sea of clouds, Teide peak, and the volcano crater below.
Take trails to escape the crowds
The town offers various outdoor trails, with Cruz de Tejeda-Artenara being prominent, stretching 7 km and showcasing breathtaking views.
Escape tourist crowds at Los Pérez, known for traditional cave dwellings, and at Lugarejo, famous for Canarian architecture. Las Hoyas Reservoirs in Artenara offer scenic beauty and recreational activities like hiking and picnicking. They provide water for agriculture.
Local curiosities
Throughout the year, numerous feasts occur, notably La Cuevita in August, honoring the Virgen de la Cuevita, renowned for its grandeur.
In Artenara bakeries, try potato bread rolls with cinnamon and aniseed, popular treats known as “pan de papas” in the Canary Islands.
7. Agüimes
As we drove from Ingenio to Teror, my friend diverted us to Aguïmes, where we took a brief stroll. Aguïmes, a quaint town, boasts a meticulously preserved ancient quarter adorned with exquisite bronze sculptures and cobblestone streets, flanked by traditional homes.
The town, situated 20 km southeast of Las Palmas, is separated from Ingenio by the ravine of the Barranco de Guayadeque.
Every year, the festival Traída del agua y el gofio entices numerous visitors, revitalizing the oldest Canary Island traditions. Participants relive the ancient custom of grinding barley, corn, or wheat into gofio at the mills. As they journey to the mills, gofio is distributed, and everyone dances joyfully. Subsequently, as they return to town, water is sprinkled on them from the balconies.
Have you noticed the camel sculpture in the old town? Positioned at the entrance of La Casa de los Camellos, a delightful hotel housed in a former camel stable. This sculpture symbolizes the camel, a vital animal in a past era when it served as the primary means of transportation due to the inadequate road conditions.
Aguïmes’ artisanal souvenirs allow you to take a piece of the region’s rich heritage home with you. The city has a strong handcraft tradition. Whether you’re looking for ceramics, leather accessories, or colourful textiles, in Aguïmes, you’ll find a variety of souvenir shops and artisanal boutiques.
Baraquito coffee, olives and cheese
Overall, Aguïmes offers a delightful culinary experience, with a mix of traditional flavors, street food delights, and artisanal products waiting to be discovered:
- The Gastronomic Museum of Agüimes is a space for the cultural experience, the purchase and tasting of select Canarian products. Here you can find a wide variety of Canarian cheeses, as well as other products such as oil, jam or craft beers.
- The best olives of Gran Canaria are from the hamlet of Temisas, where several olive mills are located. If you want tranquility and kindness from the people you have to visit it, you will not regret it. It has beautiful views and the abundant olive trees give it the perfect touch of a dream town.
- At El Populacho bar in Plaza del Rosario, famous for papas arrugas. You can try most of the genuine Canarian specialities here or simply grab a Baraquito coffee with a delcious cheesecake and enjoy people watching. In Bodega Municipal Señorío de Agüimes you can try some local wine.
One of the island’s most significant festivals is The Agüimes Carnival, held yearly in February. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring activities like the Murgas contest, where groups in traditional costumes sing. Throughout the Old Carnival Dance, masked girls engage in pranks. On Carnival Tuesday, rice puddings and Carnival tortillas with honey are enjoyed alongside local musical bands. Ash Wednesday marks the Sardine Burial, followed by masked girls mourning the end of Carnival. The festivities conclude with fireworks.
What’s near Agüimes?
- Embark on a short hike at Barranco de Las Vacas (3.5 km), offering magnificent views to Las Cuevas de la Audiencia from Temisas (1.5km). Barranco de Las Vacas features a fascinating and magical gorge. Water, wind, and erosion have sculpted a remarkable canyon that bears a striking resemblance to the renowned Antelope Canyon in the United States. It stands as a genuine marvel of nature!
- Engage in radical windsurfing at Playa de Vargas, host to the annual Vargas PWA Wave Classic Grand Prix. Dive into the depths of Playa de Cabrón if you’re an enthusiast.
- Museo La Zafra (10 presents Gran Canaria’s tomato business evolution, showcasing old cultivation techniques, tools, and farmer’s lifestyles.
8. Salinas de Tenefé
Nestled in our “Miniature Continent,” this charming spot boasts traditional salt ponds where two men craft “Flor de sal” by hand. The owner happily explain the process of salt production in Spanish. Adjacent, a vast wind farm and banana plantation thrive. For adventure seekers, Playa Pozo Izquierdo offers a spectacle of windsurfers and kitesurfers.
What’s nearby?
- On the coast of Santa Lucia municipality lies near the renowned surfing spot Pozo Izquierdo, attracting enthusiasts and tourists alike.
- ESA Maspalomas Station and Playa Pozo Izquierdo (El Arenal), located 750 meters apart, lie nearby, facilitating seamless collaboration.
When visiting Gran Canaria, consider these tips for a memorable experience.
- Be aware of the siesta time in Gran Canaria; most shops close from 1-4pm or later. However, it offers a quiet walk opportunity.
- Before booking your stay at a small hotel or B&B, inquire about local events and festivals from the owners.
- Explore local food markets where you’ll discover and sample local fruits not found elsewhere, enhancing your culinary adventure. At the lively bars and cafes within the markets, you can indulge in tapas featuring jamón, olives, and papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes), or savor a plate of huevos rotos (‘broken eggs’) paired with Teror chorizo, often complemented by live music performances.
- Local appreciation grows when you communicate in their language. They speak rapidly, often dropping words, but remain encouraging. Learn Spanish before visiting the Canary Islands.
- Mind the weather changes! If you’re in Las Palmas, ensure to bring a hat when visiting Tejeda. Summertime there can be significantly warmer.
- Navigating Gran Canaria by car presents challenges, particularly when venturing into rural regions. Drive cautiously, expect narrow, winding roads.
