Excursions in Gran Canaria
Here we are going to recommend excursions to spend a pleasant day on the island and where we will also introduce curiosities or places where mass tourism does not reach or essential places to really know the island
It is a set of dunes with a characteristic halophilic dune habitat of the Canary archipelago, unique on the island of Gran Canaria, since there is no other dune system with the same characteristics on the island. Most of the flora and some of the ornithic species that visit the humid areas (Oasis de Maspalomas, also known as Charca de Maspalomas) of this reserve, are protected by both national and regional laws. In addition, there are many species of sabulícola insects, including some endemic ones, related to the African fauna, which are only known in this environment, the Giant Lizard of Gran Canaria (Gallotia stehlini) that can be seen abundantly in the palm grove area. next to the Oasis of Maspalomas and a large number of birds.
La reserva natural especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas posee un clima con muy escasas precipitaciones y temperaturas cálidas. La temperatura media anual es de 23,5ºC, 21ºC en invierno y 30ºC en verano de media. Las noches son templadas y cálidas.
Las precipitaciones son muy escasas, su media anual es inferior a los 100mm (80.2mm aproximadamente). Solamente llueve unos 10 o 15 días por año, concentrándose en los meses de febrero y noviembre. Se calcula una media de 259 días soleados al año, 87 con nubes y tan solo 13 días cubiertos.2
322 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Riżerva tad-Dune Naturali ta 'Maspalomas
It is a set of dunes with a characteristic halophilic dune habitat of the Canary archipelago, unique on the island of Gran Canaria, since there is no other dune system with the same characteristics on the island. Most of the flora and some of the ornithic species that visit the humid areas (Oasis de Maspalomas, also known as Charca de Maspalomas) of this reserve, are protected by both national and regional laws. In addition, there are many species of sabulícola insects, including some endemic ones, related to the African fauna, which are only known in this environment, the Giant Lizard of Gran Canaria (Gallotia stehlini) that can be seen abundantly in the palm grove area. next to the Oasis of Maspalomas and a large number of birds.
La reserva natural especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas posee un clima con muy escasas precipitaciones y temperaturas cálidas. La temperatura media anual es de 23,5ºC, 21ºC en invierno y 30ºC en verano de media. Las noches son templadas y cálidas.
Las precipitaciones son muy escasas, su media anual es inferior a los 100mm (80.2mm aproximadamente). Solamente llueve unos 10 o 15 días por año, concentrándose en los meses de febrero y noviembre. Se calcula una media de 259 días soleados al año, 87 con nubes y tan solo 13 días cubiertos.2
Poema del Mar is the great aquarium of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. A space designed to the smallest detail that recreates the different ecosystems inhabited by the more than 350 animal species that the visitor will encounter.
The aquarium opened its doors in January 2018 and is located on the Sanapú Pier in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The facilities belong to the business group that manages Loro Parque and Siam Park in Tenerife, so success is more than assured.
If you want to know the history and gastronomy of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and rest for a few days with your family, make a reservation now.
The species of the Great Aquarium Poema del Mar
The visitor will find, as soon as they enter the aquarium, with a gigantic Mexican cenote (an underground lagoon).
The 12,700 m² space has been divided into three thematic areas: the jungle, the reefs and the great ocean. In them you can see more than 350 species including fish, amphibians, reptiles and marine flora. The most impressive thing is the faithful recreation of the various ecosystems that allow the visitor, for a moment, to move to different countries and areas of the globe.
Among the many animals that can be seen in this Poema del Mar Aquarium are crocodiles, four-eyed fish, large black piranhas, pig-nosed turtles, black tip sharks, coconut crabs, jellyfish or electric eels that can produce discharges of up to 850 volts.
In the Jungle there are several freshwater pools and an environment full of lush vegetation where various species of parrots and parrots fly overhead. Also, visitors with greater visual acuity will be able to find the 30 chameleons that are camouflaged in an artificial baobab.
The area of the Reef is made up of a huge cylinder with more than 400,000 liters of water inhabited by a great variety of colors of coral and fish.
And finally, in the thematic area of the ocean, a large 36-meter curved window has been installed that allows you to contemplate the entire exhibition area and feel that you are immersed in the ocean. This huge fish tank is the new home of 8 sharks from the Siam Park Aquarium and four bull sharks among other species.
It also has a small artificial beach designed for turtles to spawn. The new offspring will be reintegrated into the Canarian natural environment.
The Canary species have a special area, one of them known as El Veril, where you can see more than 100 moray eels, green cockerels, old women and pejeperros (one of the most representative fish species on the island).
The tour of the Poema del Mar Aquarium has an estimated duration of 3 hours.
Canarian residents enjoy a significant discount when obtaining their tickets. Children under 4 years old do not pay entry. It is essential to carry a document that proves both the Canarian residence and the age to avoid misunderstandings when taking out the tickets.
You can bring a camera to the aquarium but the use of flash is not allowed inside the facilities, as it affects and alters the fish and animals. At the entrance of the facilities, it is reminded that minors under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Details
Hour: 9:00 - 18:00
Price: From € 13.00 to € 25.00
Age: All
158 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Poema del Mar
s/n Av. de Los ConsignatariosPoema del Mar is the great aquarium of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. A space designed to the smallest detail that recreates the different ecosystems inhabited by the more than 350 animal species that the visitor will encounter.
The aquarium opened its doors in January 2018 and is located on the Sanapú Pier in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The facilities belong to the business group that manages Loro Parque and Siam Park in Tenerife, so success is more than assured.
If you want to know the history and gastronomy of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and rest for a few days with your family, make a reservation now.
The species of the Great Aquarium Poema del Mar
The visitor will find, as soon as they enter the aquarium, with a gigantic Mexican cenote (an underground lagoon).
The 12,700 m² space has been divided into three thematic areas: the jungle, the reefs and the great ocean. In them you can see more than 350 species including fish, amphibians, reptiles and marine flora. The most impressive thing is the faithful recreation of the various ecosystems that allow the visitor, for a moment, to move to different countries and areas of the globe.
Among the many animals that can be seen in this Poema del Mar Aquarium are crocodiles, four-eyed fish, large black piranhas, pig-nosed turtles, black tip sharks, coconut crabs, jellyfish or electric eels that can produce discharges of up to 850 volts.
In the Jungle there are several freshwater pools and an environment full of lush vegetation where various species of parrots and parrots fly overhead. Also, visitors with greater visual acuity will be able to find the 30 chameleons that are camouflaged in an artificial baobab.
The area of the Reef is made up of a huge cylinder with more than 400,000 liters of water inhabited by a great variety of colors of coral and fish.
And finally, in the thematic area of the ocean, a large 36-meter curved window has been installed that allows you to contemplate the entire exhibition area and feel that you are immersed in the ocean. This huge fish tank is the new home of 8 sharks from the Siam Park Aquarium and four bull sharks among other species.
It also has a small artificial beach designed for turtles to spawn. The new offspring will be reintegrated into the Canarian natural environment.
The Canary species have a special area, one of them known as El Veril, where you can see more than 100 moray eels, green cockerels, old women and pejeperros (one of the most representative fish species on the island).
The tour of the Poema del Mar Aquarium has an estimated duration of 3 hours.
Canarian residents enjoy a significant discount when obtaining their tickets. Children under 4 years old do not pay entry. It is essential to carry a document that proves both the Canarian residence and the age to avoid misunderstandings when taking out the tickets.
You can bring a camera to the aquarium but the use of flash is not allowed inside the facilities, as it affects and alters the fish and animals. At the entrance of the facilities, it is reminded that minors under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Details
Hour: 9:00 - 18:00
Price: From € 13.00 to € 25.00
Age: All
Las Canteras, the changing beach
Are you arriving to the island by cruise ship? If you are one of the passengers arriving in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on a cruise ship, we will quickly give you the keys to the city's treasure chest. As soon as you set foot on the ground. Why hide it? She would find him sooner or later.
The unburied treasure of the island's capital is Playa de Las Canteras. It is the pearl that the city does not hide. A long stretch of sand, several kilometers long, that stretches across the bay. A place with a special charm that you can find 3 or 4 blocks from the cruise terminal.
The city's residents repeat that Las Canteras is one of the best urban beaches in the country. And they have reason to think so. Because it is a beach with good weather almost all year round. The place in the capital to escape, where all the clocks stop. A kind of Central Park beach version, where you can play sports any day of the week, wearing a swimsuit, bikini or surfboard.
In addition, it is a great reserve of marine life. Its seabed is a refuge for a thousand types of fish. On land, the refuge for walkers, fishermen, surfers and surfers. And it has a special feature. This peculiarity is what the locals call "La Barra", a long rock formation that spreads out not far from the sand and protects a large part of the beach from the tides. A curious stone line that makes the bay the best place on this side of the globe to practice swimming and that allows bathers to walk on the water on low tide days.
And for a walk, we recommend the long walk that winds continuously to the sand, avoiding cafes and ice cream parlors. At the beginning of the walk you will find the terraces of La Puntilla and the fresh fish restaurants. At the other end of the beach, the surfing atmosphere around the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, with more terraces and cafes facing the sea.
Although we must warn you, if you are planning to stay in the city for several days, forget about finding the beach you saw on Monday on Wednesday.
467 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Il-Plażża ta 'Las Canteras
Las Canteras, the changing beach
Are you arriving to the island by cruise ship? If you are one of the passengers arriving in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on a cruise ship, we will quickly give you the keys to the city's treasure chest. As soon as you set foot on the ground. Why hide it? She would find him sooner or later.
The unburied treasure of the island's capital is Playa de Las Canteras. It is the pearl that the city does not hide. A long stretch of sand, several kilometers long, that stretches across the bay. A place with a special charm that you can find 3 or 4 blocks from the cruise terminal.
The city's residents repeat that Las Canteras is one of the best urban beaches in the country. And they have reason to think so. Because it is a beach with good weather almost all year round. The place in the capital to escape, where all the clocks stop. A kind of Central Park beach version, where you can play sports any day of the week, wearing a swimsuit, bikini or surfboard.
In addition, it is a great reserve of marine life. Its seabed is a refuge for a thousand types of fish. On land, the refuge for walkers, fishermen, surfers and surfers. And it has a special feature. This peculiarity is what the locals call "La Barra", a long rock formation that spreads out not far from the sand and protects a large part of the beach from the tides. A curious stone line that makes the bay the best place on this side of the globe to practice swimming and that allows bathers to walk on the water on low tide days.
And for a walk, we recommend the long walk that winds continuously to the sand, avoiding cafes and ice cream parlors. At the beginning of the walk you will find the terraces of La Puntilla and the fresh fish restaurants. At the other end of the beach, the surfing atmosphere around the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, with more terraces and cafes facing the sea.
Although we must warn you, if you are planning to stay in the city for several days, forget about finding the beach you saw on Monday on Wednesday.
The Las Vacas ravine has become a well-known tourist attraction for the residents and visitors of Gran Canaria. Why? For its peculiar rock formations called Tobas de Colores. These striking formations bear a certain resemblance to the famous Antelope Canyon in the United States. However, we are talking about a small area in the middle of the ravine. However, since it is a place that is fashionable and occupies such a small space, its enjoyment is becoming more difficult. Both because of its overcrowding and because of the scarce parking in the area. We will tell you everything below!.
How to get to the Barranco de Las Vacas in Gran Canaria
The Barranco de Las Vacas is located in the municipality of Agüimes, but people confuse it with Las Tobas de Colores that we show you in these photos. If what you really want to visit is this spectacular geological canyon, it is located in the Barafonso ravine. If you want to get to Las Tobas by car, you must enter in Google maps "Tobas de colores del Barranco de Las Vacas" or "way to go down to Las Tobas de Colores". You can directly copy this exact address on your mobile and follow it with your car.
Where to park to visit the Tobas de Colores (Barranco de Las Vacas)
You will see that in the vicinity you only have 2 options to park to visit the ravine. One with space for only two cars next to the access to the shortest path (just 5 minutes walking). On the other hand, there is another option to leave the car with a few more places about 100 meters before arriving (approximately 10 minutes on foot). The problem is that you will have to walk along the road and the shoulder is very small. That is, it is not necessary to do a great route or hike if you only want to visit the formations on the mountain, but its access is not very safe. In any case, with regard to the path itself, you can go with children as it is not a difficult path, although they should wear good shoes for the first descent.
If you want to take a walk to go all over the ravine and take the opportunity to visit the Cuevas de La Audiencia, you will probably arrive when a large number of visitors are concentrating on this resource. Therefore, the ideal is that you start the tour from the Tobas de Colores. The only access on foot to appreciate these formations is crossing the stone bridge and tunnel that we show you below. It can be seen from the road, which will serve as a guide to try to park in the area.
34 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Barranco de Las Vacas
The Las Vacas ravine has become a well-known tourist attraction for the residents and visitors of Gran Canaria. Why? For its peculiar rock formations called Tobas de Colores. These striking formations bear a certain resemblance to the famous Antelope Canyon in the United States. However, we are talking about a small area in the middle of the ravine. However, since it is a place that is fashionable and occupies such a small space, its enjoyment is becoming more difficult. Both because of its overcrowding and because of the scarce parking in the area. We will tell you everything below!.
How to get to the Barranco de Las Vacas in Gran Canaria
The Barranco de Las Vacas is located in the municipality of Agüimes, but people confuse it with Las Tobas de Colores that we show you in these photos. If what you really want to visit is this spectacular geological canyon, it is located in the Barafonso ravine. If you want to get to Las Tobas by car, you must enter in Google maps "Tobas de colores del Barranco de Las Vacas" or "way to go down to Las Tobas de Colores". You can directly copy this exact address on your mobile and follow it with your car.
Where to park to visit the Tobas de Colores (Barranco de Las Vacas)
You will see that in the vicinity you only have 2 options to park to visit the ravine. One with space for only two cars next to the access to the shortest path (just 5 minutes walking). On the other hand, there is another option to leave the car with a few more places about 100 meters before arriving (approximately 10 minutes on foot). The problem is that you will have to walk along the road and the shoulder is very small. That is, it is not necessary to do a great route or hike if you only want to visit the formations on the mountain, but its access is not very safe. In any case, with regard to the path itself, you can go with children as it is not a difficult path, although they should wear good shoes for the first descent.
If you want to take a walk to go all over the ravine and take the opportunity to visit the Cuevas de La Audiencia, you will probably arrive when a large number of visitors are concentrating on this resource. Therefore, the ideal is that you start the tour from the Tobas de Colores. The only access on foot to appreciate these formations is crossing the stone bridge and tunnel that we show you below. It can be seen from the road, which will serve as a guide to try to park in the area.
Traveling to Gran Canaria is usually associated with dream places such as the Dunes of Maspalomas but, how could it be otherwise, the island itself is a continent. It offers options for all tastes. Connecting the sea with the mountain in a short period of time impresses anyone. And if we talk about mountains, the path to Roque Nublo (1,813 m) is undoubtedly one of the essentials.
The Roque Nublo Natural Monument has such a distinguished silhouette that it has been used countless times to promote the island of Gran Canaria. In fact, at the airport as soon as you pick up your suitcases you find an immense image of this monolith. It is one of the most representative icons of the Canary Islands. Yes or yes you have to know it.
You can choose the morning or the afternoon to approach the Roque Nublo. We recommend the afternoon because the influx of visitors is much smaller and, in addition, enjoying a sunset in the high mountains is always a plus, especially if you match those colors that represent the island so well.
Of course, you have to be well prepared because the temperature drops considerably (especially during autumn and winter) and most likely the night will catch you while you return to the beginning of the trail, so you always have to be careful if you decide to visit Roque Nublo at sunset.
Preparations to visit the Roque Nublo
We have good news. The path to Roque Nublo is easy and accessible to almost anyone. A minimum of physical condition is sufficient. Of course, you are not going to a New Year's Eve party. Having mountain boots there is no reason to wear cholas (flip flops) or high heels to walk on the summit of Gran Canaria. It seems obvious but from experience we comment on it because day in and day out we also see many cases that cry out to heaven.
Therefore, to undertake the path to Roque Nublo, what is necessary is good footwear (sports or mountain shoes that grip well), some water, a cap, a coat and a frontal if you visit in winter or just before sunset. Remember that you are at almost 2,000 meters of altitude, in an area influenced by the trade winds and in a matter of minutes you can go from a totally clear sky to see yourself immersed in a thick fog. It happened to us.
How to get to Roque Nublo?
The Roque Nublo is located in the municipality of Tejeda and within the Nublo Rural Park. Arriving is easy, leaving is not so easy. Few places as special as this one we have visited. From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria it is best to head towards Santa Brígida, continue along Vega de San Mateo and, before arriving, stop at Cruz de Tejeda to buy local delicacies such as local cheeses.
From there, our recommendation is to continue to the Degollada de Becerra Viewpoint, the views are truly spectacular. You can see El Fraile, Roque Nublo on the left, the unmistakable Roque Bentayga (1,414 meters), the Tejeda caldera, the town of Tejeda ... and, if you are lucky enough to coincide with a day with good visibility, you will see the horizon the silhouette of the Teide volcano.
Once in the area, go to the Degollada de la Goleta car park as it is the beginning of the path to Roque Nublo, one of the largest rocks in the world. There are more trails to get to this point, but this car park is the most comfortable and popular option.
During the morning the influx of tourists is important and it is often difficult to park. As we mentioned at the beginning, we did the trail in the afternoon, with hardly any people, much calmer and hoping to enjoy the sunset. It's certainly not a bad plan.
Path to the emblem of Gran Canaria
We started walking well into the afternoon. The fresco makes an appearance but it makes up for the few people we see around. There are barely a handful of cars in the parking lot, which makes us especially excited. Arriving at the Nublo and being almost alone is the plan for the end of the afternoon.
From La Goleta the path to Roque Nublo is only 1.5 km long and starts out easy. It is well indicated and the road in perfect condition. We are surrounded by Canarian pines (Pinus canariensis) fruit of repopulations carried out during the 40s and 50s, some specimens that resist the wind well and that are capable of regrowing after a fire.
Soon after, the route begins to get uphill. Fresh, clean air rises up the nearby La Culata ravine like a funnel. Canarian pines, some chestnut trees and gorse contribute their grain of sand in the festival of smells.
With regard to the fauna, there we can find some reptiles such as lizards, smooth and perennials. There are also some birds linked to the pine forest such as the Great Spotted Woodpecker or the Gran Canaria blue finch as well as blue tit, crows, the canary or the mosquito net. It is also not uncommon to see birds of prey such as the kestrel, the buzzard, the hawk, the long-eared owl and the owl.
30 minutes after starting the walk, the pines disappear. Suddenly everything is stones. The landscape is lunar. It seems that some are arranged in the form of a ladder, pure chance. Three steps, two steps, one step and we enter another world. As if by magic a great plain opens up before us.
The one known as Tablon del Nublo is an elongated space. A sort of plain at the end of which two rocks are embedded, the Roque de la Rana (small and to the left) and the Roque Nublo (large and to the right). Both due to their position, shape and geographical situation are visible from different points of the island, which make them a landmark.
The Roque Nublo is the remainder of a stratovolcano that collapsed about 2.9 million years ago. The term rock defines those volcanic formations that are the product of more or less dense lavas that, due to their composition and speed, plug the outlet conduit, forming solid cliffs capable of withstanding erosion. In the case of Roque Nublo, its nickname alludes to a constant influence of the Alisio clouding the place we travel.
It must be taken into account that geological processes take place over hundreds, thousands and even millions of years, so it is difficult to summarize in a few words certain transformations of the land. It is believed that the Roque Nublo volcano could exceed 3,000 m in altitude. Obviously, the Roque Nublo is not alien to erosion, so long exposed to different phenomena has shaped its silhouette. Today it measures 80 meters from its base and is elevated 1,813 meters above sea level.
Behind us and looking east, the Pico de las Nieves appears, the highest point on the island of Gran Canaria at 1,949 meters.
We walked around it, always following the marked path and found a balcony with views of Mount Teide (just before the clouds came in with force). Without a doubt we arrived at a magical place but not only for us, but also for the ancient Canaries, well known to the inhabitants of Gran Canaria before the Castilian conquest.
And it is that the Roque Nublo was a place of special significance for the aborigines of this island. A place of worship. A sacred area where religious ceremonies were held and where some caves used as funerary spaces have been found.
With the views of the Tejeda caldera and the unmistakable Roque Bentayga, the visit to Roque Nublo is completed.
452 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Roque Nublo
Traveling to Gran Canaria is usually associated with dream places such as the Dunes of Maspalomas but, how could it be otherwise, the island itself is a continent. It offers options for all tastes. Connecting the sea with the mountain in a short period of time impresses anyone. And if we talk about mountains, the path to Roque Nublo (1,813 m) is undoubtedly one of the essentials.
The Roque Nublo Natural Monument has such a distinguished silhouette that it has been used countless times to promote the island of Gran Canaria. In fact, at the airport as soon as you pick up your suitcases you find an immense image of this monolith. It is one of the most representative icons of the Canary Islands. Yes or yes you have to know it.
You can choose the morning or the afternoon to approach the Roque Nublo. We recommend the afternoon because the influx of visitors is much smaller and, in addition, enjoying a sunset in the high mountains is always a plus, especially if you match those colors that represent the island so well.
Of course, you have to be well prepared because the temperature drops considerably (especially during autumn and winter) and most likely the night will catch you while you return to the beginning of the trail, so you always have to be careful if you decide to visit Roque Nublo at sunset.
Preparations to visit the Roque Nublo
We have good news. The path to Roque Nublo is easy and accessible to almost anyone. A minimum of physical condition is sufficient. Of course, you are not going to a New Year's Eve party. Having mountain boots there is no reason to wear cholas (flip flops) or high heels to walk on the summit of Gran Canaria. It seems obvious but from experience we comment on it because day in and day out we also see many cases that cry out to heaven.
Therefore, to undertake the path to Roque Nublo, what is necessary is good footwear (sports or mountain shoes that grip well), some water, a cap, a coat and a frontal if you visit in winter or just before sunset. Remember that you are at almost 2,000 meters of altitude, in an area influenced by the trade winds and in a matter of minutes you can go from a totally clear sky to see yourself immersed in a thick fog. It happened to us.
How to get to Roque Nublo?
The Roque Nublo is located in the municipality of Tejeda and within the Nublo Rural Park. Arriving is easy, leaving is not so easy. Few places as special as this one we have visited. From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria it is best to head towards Santa Brígida, continue along Vega de San Mateo and, before arriving, stop at Cruz de Tejeda to buy local delicacies such as local cheeses.
From there, our recommendation is to continue to the Degollada de Becerra Viewpoint, the views are truly spectacular. You can see El Fraile, Roque Nublo on the left, the unmistakable Roque Bentayga (1,414 meters), the Tejeda caldera, the town of Tejeda ... and, if you are lucky enough to coincide with a day with good visibility, you will see the horizon the silhouette of the Teide volcano.
Once in the area, go to the Degollada de la Goleta car park as it is the beginning of the path to Roque Nublo, one of the largest rocks in the world. There are more trails to get to this point, but this car park is the most comfortable and popular option.
During the morning the influx of tourists is important and it is often difficult to park. As we mentioned at the beginning, we did the trail in the afternoon, with hardly any people, much calmer and hoping to enjoy the sunset. It's certainly not a bad plan.
Path to the emblem of Gran Canaria
We started walking well into the afternoon. The fresco makes an appearance but it makes up for the few people we see around. There are barely a handful of cars in the parking lot, which makes us especially excited. Arriving at the Nublo and being almost alone is the plan for the end of the afternoon.
From La Goleta the path to Roque Nublo is only 1.5 km long and starts out easy. It is well indicated and the road in perfect condition. We are surrounded by Canarian pines (Pinus canariensis) fruit of repopulations carried out during the 40s and 50s, some specimens that resist the wind well and that are capable of regrowing after a fire.
Soon after, the route begins to get uphill. Fresh, clean air rises up the nearby La Culata ravine like a funnel. Canarian pines, some chestnut trees and gorse contribute their grain of sand in the festival of smells.
With regard to the fauna, there we can find some reptiles such as lizards, smooth and perennials. There are also some birds linked to the pine forest such as the Great Spotted Woodpecker or the Gran Canaria blue finch as well as blue tit, crows, the canary or the mosquito net. It is also not uncommon to see birds of prey such as the kestrel, the buzzard, the hawk, the long-eared owl and the owl.
30 minutes after starting the walk, the pines disappear. Suddenly everything is stones. The landscape is lunar. It seems that some are arranged in the form of a ladder, pure chance. Three steps, two steps, one step and we enter another world. As if by magic a great plain opens up before us.
The one known as Tablon del Nublo is an elongated space. A sort of plain at the end of which two rocks are embedded, the Roque de la Rana (small and to the left) and the Roque Nublo (large and to the right). Both due to their position, shape and geographical situation are visible from different points of the island, which make them a landmark.
The Roque Nublo is the remainder of a stratovolcano that collapsed about 2.9 million years ago. The term rock defines those volcanic formations that are the product of more or less dense lavas that, due to their composition and speed, plug the outlet conduit, forming solid cliffs capable of withstanding erosion. In the case of Roque Nublo, its nickname alludes to a constant influence of the Alisio clouding the place we travel.
It must be taken into account that geological processes take place over hundreds, thousands and even millions of years, so it is difficult to summarize in a few words certain transformations of the land. It is believed that the Roque Nublo volcano could exceed 3,000 m in altitude. Obviously, the Roque Nublo is not alien to erosion, so long exposed to different phenomena has shaped its silhouette. Today it measures 80 meters from its base and is elevated 1,813 meters above sea level.
Behind us and looking east, the Pico de las Nieves appears, the highest point on the island of Gran Canaria at 1,949 meters.
We walked around it, always following the marked path and found a balcony with views of Mount Teide (just before the clouds came in with force). Without a doubt we arrived at a magical place but not only for us, but also for the ancient Canaries, well known to the inhabitants of Gran Canaria before the Castilian conquest.
And it is that the Roque Nublo was a place of special significance for the aborigines of this island. A place of worship. A sacred area where religious ceremonies were held and where some caves used as funerary spaces have been found.
With the views of the Tejeda caldera and the unmistakable Roque Bentayga, the visit to Roque Nublo is completed.
A kilometer of wild sand like few others. Gran Canaria still conserves part of that virgin coastline, far from the urban barbarities perpetrated in other areas of the island, and which transports us to a dream place, a hidden corner where we simply lose track of time. It is the Güi Güi beach. Haven't you heard of her? Well, it points out because we are facing one of the most beautiful beaches in Gran Canaria and, fortunately, still quite unknown. Do you want to know what awaits you at Güi Güi beach, how to get there and everything you need to know to organize an excursion?
You will see it written in different ways and, after investigating a little, I still have not very clear what its official name is. It is not important. This name is unmistakable. It is located in the west of Gran Canaria, it is difficult to access since it cannot be reached by car, and the closest town to it is the small village of Tasartico.
How to get to Güi Güi beach, all the options
They say that to get to paradise you have to suffer. Well I tell you not necessarily. We have two options. Both recommended and with a happy ending: the impressive Güi Güi beach. Let's see a short summary so you can decide which is the one that best suits your needs and physical form.
Güigüi beach: how to get there on foot
This is the alternative that requires the most physical effort, but also the most complete in terms of landscapes, sustainable and the one that allows you to enjoy this little paradise for as long as you want. First you have to drive to the small village of Tasartico. A remote little town located an hour and a half drive from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or an hour from Maspalomas.
Beyond the main nucleus of houses we find a small parking lot and the beginning of the path. A well-marked hiking trail of just 5 kilometers (one way). But don't claim victory so fast. They are 5 kilometers of constant ascents and descents and a strong unevenness between volcanic, arid landscapes and lacking shade where to take shelter. Approximately 2 and a half hours of walking to get there, and as many to return. In other words, it becomes a full-day excursion that requires some effort.
üi Güi beach: how to get there by boat
I already anticipated it at the beginning. If you do not see yourself in good physical shape or with the necessary strength to face this hiking route, you have another option by sea. It is a small boat excursion that allows you to access Guigui beach directly by the sea and enjoy this little piece of paradise without breaking a sweat.
In this sense, you also have two alternatives: either ask for prices and schedules of a watertaxi or book a fully organized excursion. Taxi boats can be taken from Tasarte, La Aldea, Puerto Rico or Puerto de Mogán. Right there they will be able to inform you about prices, departure days and schedules. You should bear in mind that, depending on the season, they may not go out daily. The tide also intervenes when it comes to going.
Regarding the organized tours, some of them also take the opportunity to navigate the Canarian waters in search of dolphins and observe a good part of the west coast of Gran Canaria from the sea. A more complete excursion impossible. Of course, you always have to take into account the circumstances of the sea. On days with the heaviest waves, the boat may not be able to dock on the beach and they may have to consider alternatives.
t is very important to get up as early as possible and bring several bottles of very fresh water. During most of the tour you will be completely exposed to the sun's rays. So the ideal is that you park your car at the beginning of the trail around 9:00 in the morning. Remember that, beyond the village itself, an unpaved track begins that leads to the Tasartico campsite. Before reaching the campsite, less than a kilometer from the town, there is a small parking lot and the signs for the beginning of the trail.
The road begins strongly. You have to climb a fairly high mountain to the so-called Degollada de Aguas Sabinas, and the ascent does not seem to give respite for the first kilometer and a half until reaching 546 meters of altitude. Nothing that does not reward the incredible views of the Güi Güi massif from the highest point of this hiking route.
From here, the path turns into an endless descent between landscapes that seem taken out of any American West movie. They say that sometimes the road is as beautiful as the destination itself. And this premise is perfectly fulfilled in Güigüi. Cliffs of a thousand colors with truly whimsical shapes, tall cacti and strange native plants. A true wonder! Of course, I hope you have brought good shoes because you will need them for the descent. There are very steep areas with a lot of loose stone.
Towards the end of the route, when we can almost feel the triumph of having completed the path, we find a small house that serves as a bar. A very rudimentary bar whose presence is greatly appreciated. You can't imagine how good a cold beer or soft drink feels before tackling the last stage. Remember that Güigüi beach does not have any lifeguard service or shops or restaurants. It is a completely virgin beach in every way and with very low occupancy. There are people who take the opportunity to camp on the beach and return to civilization the next day.
That's it, we've already passed the last palm trees and we're stepping on the fine, dark sand of Güi Güi beach. Enjoy this moment and find your place in this immense landscape. In reality, it is divided into two extensive beaches, Güigüi grande and Güigüi chico, joined at high tide and completely surrounded by high volcanic cliffs. In addition, on the clearest days, you will get to see the silhouette of Teide and the neighboring island of Tenerife. A picture of extreme beauty to enjoy several hours of relaxation and bathing in the sea.
The best thing is that, although it is not dimmed in the images, the water next to the shore is completely crystalline. Perfect for a good snorkeling session or simply long baths to defuse the heat.
And if you'll allow me one last tip… when you get back to the car and if you still have some time to spare, you can drive to Aneas beach in Tasarte. Here you can enjoy one of the best sunsets on the island. Only in the company of fishermen, local people and with the shadow of the great giant Teide on the horizon, the sky is dyed with colors leaving us an unforgettable picture.
Playa Gui Gui
A kilometer of wild sand like few others. Gran Canaria still conserves part of that virgin coastline, far from the urban barbarities perpetrated in other areas of the island, and which transports us to a dream place, a hidden corner where we simply lose track of time. It is the Güi Güi beach. Haven't you heard of her? Well, it points out because we are facing one of the most beautiful beaches in Gran Canaria and, fortunately, still quite unknown. Do you want to know what awaits you at Güi Güi beach, how to get there and everything you need to know to organize an excursion?
You will see it written in different ways and, after investigating a little, I still have not very clear what its official name is. It is not important. This name is unmistakable. It is located in the west of Gran Canaria, it is difficult to access since it cannot be reached by car, and the closest town to it is the small village of Tasartico.
How to get to Güi Güi beach, all the options
They say that to get to paradise you have to suffer. Well I tell you not necessarily. We have two options. Both recommended and with a happy ending: the impressive Güi Güi beach. Let's see a short summary so you can decide which is the one that best suits your needs and physical form.
Güigüi beach: how to get there on foot
This is the alternative that requires the most physical effort, but also the most complete in terms of landscapes, sustainable and the one that allows you to enjoy this little paradise for as long as you want. First you have to drive to the small village of Tasartico. A remote little town located an hour and a half drive from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or an hour from Maspalomas.
Beyond the main nucleus of houses we find a small parking lot and the beginning of the path. A well-marked hiking trail of just 5 kilometers (one way). But don't claim victory so fast. They are 5 kilometers of constant ascents and descents and a strong unevenness between volcanic, arid landscapes and lacking shade where to take shelter. Approximately 2 and a half hours of walking to get there, and as many to return. In other words, it becomes a full-day excursion that requires some effort.
üi Güi beach: how to get there by boat
I already anticipated it at the beginning. If you do not see yourself in good physical shape or with the necessary strength to face this hiking route, you have another option by sea. It is a small boat excursion that allows you to access Guigui beach directly by the sea and enjoy this little piece of paradise without breaking a sweat.
In this sense, you also have two alternatives: either ask for prices and schedules of a watertaxi or book a fully organized excursion. Taxi boats can be taken from Tasarte, La Aldea, Puerto Rico or Puerto de Mogán. Right there they will be able to inform you about prices, departure days and schedules. You should bear in mind that, depending on the season, they may not go out daily. The tide also intervenes when it comes to going.
Regarding the organized tours, some of them also take the opportunity to navigate the Canarian waters in search of dolphins and observe a good part of the west coast of Gran Canaria from the sea. A more complete excursion impossible. Of course, you always have to take into account the circumstances of the sea. On days with the heaviest waves, the boat may not be able to dock on the beach and they may have to consider alternatives.
t is very important to get up as early as possible and bring several bottles of very fresh water. During most of the tour you will be completely exposed to the sun's rays. So the ideal is that you park your car at the beginning of the trail around 9:00 in the morning. Remember that, beyond the village itself, an unpaved track begins that leads to the Tasartico campsite. Before reaching the campsite, less than a kilometer from the town, there is a small parking lot and the signs for the beginning of the trail.
The road begins strongly. You have to climb a fairly high mountain to the so-called Degollada de Aguas Sabinas, and the ascent does not seem to give respite for the first kilometer and a half until reaching 546 meters of altitude. Nothing that does not reward the incredible views of the Güi Güi massif from the highest point of this hiking route.
From here, the path turns into an endless descent between landscapes that seem taken out of any American West movie. They say that sometimes the road is as beautiful as the destination itself. And this premise is perfectly fulfilled in Güigüi. Cliffs of a thousand colors with truly whimsical shapes, tall cacti and strange native plants. A true wonder! Of course, I hope you have brought good shoes because you will need them for the descent. There are very steep areas with a lot of loose stone.
Towards the end of the route, when we can almost feel the triumph of having completed the path, we find a small house that serves as a bar. A very rudimentary bar whose presence is greatly appreciated. You can't imagine how good a cold beer or soft drink feels before tackling the last stage. Remember that Güigüi beach does not have any lifeguard service or shops or restaurants. It is a completely virgin beach in every way and with very low occupancy. There are people who take the opportunity to camp on the beach and return to civilization the next day.
That's it, we've already passed the last palm trees and we're stepping on the fine, dark sand of Güi Güi beach. Enjoy this moment and find your place in this immense landscape. In reality, it is divided into two extensive beaches, Güigüi grande and Güigüi chico, joined at high tide and completely surrounded by high volcanic cliffs. In addition, on the clearest days, you will get to see the silhouette of Teide and the neighboring island of Tenerife. A picture of extreme beauty to enjoy several hours of relaxation and bathing in the sea.
The best thing is that, although it is not dimmed in the images, the water next to the shore is completely crystalline. Perfect for a good snorkeling session or simply long baths to defuse the heat.
And if you'll allow me one last tip… when you get back to the car and if you still have some time to spare, you can drive to Aneas beach in Tasarte. Here you can enjoy one of the best sunsets on the island. Only in the company of fishermen, local people and with the shadow of the great giant Teide on the horizon, the sky is dyed with colors leaving us an unforgettable picture.
Emblematic places
Here we will take a tour of all those places that are interesting for their history and also make known all the businesses or interesting distractions for sightseeing and knowing more about the capital of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
One of the places that you cannot miss in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the Barrio de Vegueta 👌. It is the neighborhood in which the city was founded and the combination of its history 🤓 with its streets of colonial houses, museums and monuments make it a very special place 😍. Do you already have a pen or paper ✍? Well, the notepad on your mobile is also worth 📱. Well, you're ready to discover with MiniOnTour 10 cool places that you have to see in Vegueta.
1. Know the place where it all started
Did you know that Las Palmas de Gran Canaria was the first city founded by the Crown of Castile in the Atlantic 😵? Specifically in the year 1478, and it all began in what is now the Barrio de Vegueta. This was the place chosen by Captain Juan Rejón to install a military camp, at the mouth of the Barranco del Guiniguada.
Yes, Las Palmas was founded before Christopher Columbus's trip to the Americas ⛵, so if you thought that the style of colonial houses that you are going to see in the Vegueta neighborhood was brought to them by the Spanish who emigrated to the American continent, you are very wrong ❌. In fact, it was the city of Las Palmas that served as an example to build many cities in America. How strong, right? 😲
The founding nucleus of the city is in the Plaza de San Antonio Abad, where you can see the Mudejar Hermitage of San Antonio Abad ⛪, one of the essentials to see in Vegueta. We have been told that this hermitage occupies the place where the camp chapel built by the conquerors was built, and that Columbus prayed in it 🙏 before leaving on his first trip to the New World 🌏.
2. Discover the first plaza mayor that was planned in Spain
Yes, you read that right 👍, we also gave a whoa! when they told us 🗣. The Plaza de Santa Ana was the first major square that was planned in Spain 🧐. In this square are grouped some of the most important buildings 🔝 of the capital such as the cathedral, the Town Hall, the Provincial Historical Archive, the Episcopal Palace or the Regental House. So we don't have to tell you that it should be a must on your list of things to see in the Vegueta neighborhood during your visit to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Guarding the square we find 8 bronze dogs 🐕 very loved by the inhabitants of the city. They have told us that there are eight, because they represent the main islands of the Canary Islands and that they are known as "the guardians of Santa Ana." The truth is that we were afraid to approach in case they bit us, but then they told us that they are harmless 🤣, and that if you are small they will let you get on them to take a picture 📷.
3. Admire the Cathedral of Santa Ana, one of the things to see in Vegueta
Without a doubt, one of the things that will catch your attention in Plaza de Santa Ana is the cathedral ⛪. The Catholic Monarchs 👑 decided that it should be built in 1487 and their works began ten years later 👷, but they stopped between 1570 and 1781. In fact, its facade was not finished until the end of the last century. That explains why you can find different architectural styles in it 🤓.
Inside you can also visit the Museum of Sacred Art, the Patio de los Naranjos 🍊 and climb one of its towers to see the city from above 👀.
4. Approach the Town Hall and the Regental House
Right in front of the cathedral you will find the Town Hall, a neo-Mudejar style building that was the headquarters of the municipal offices until 1979. If you want to see them from the inside, Las Palmas City Council organizes free guided tours on Sundays. We recommend that you check the schedules before going ⌚.
5. He hallucinates with the building of the Episcopal Palace
Yes my friend, we are still in the Plaza de Santa Ana 😊. We had already told you that there were many things to see here 👀, but don't worry, we ended up with the Episcopal Palace, which is so big that it occupies a full block hehe 😵. The door that we liked the most is this, which is on the street to the right as you exit the cathedral.
6. Buy tasty things at the Vegueta Market
They have told us that in this market you can carry your bag of delicious things and that there are some top quality Canarian bananas 🍌. Yes, we have already told you in another article about our route through Gran Canaria that after trying them we decided to leave the bananas, hehe 😇. We like these more 🤤.
As a curiosity we tell you 🗣 that this was the first food market in the city. It opened its doors in 1787. As we visited the city on a Sunday, we had no luck and we found it closed 🚪. Buying fruits 🥥 and vegetables 🥑 in this market is another of the pending tasks 📝 for the next time we come to Gran Canaria.
7. Travel back in time at the Casa de Colón
If you follow our adventures on our blog, you will already know that we loved discovering America from the Muelle de las Carabelas, a very cool museum located in Huelva where you can get to know in detail 🔍 Columbus's first trip to the new continent 🌏 and even get on the replicas of the caravels ⛵ that accompanied him on his journey. Well, at the Casa de Colón in Las Palmas we learned even more about those trips 🗺, so for us it is one of the places you have to see in Vegueta.
As we already told you, on that first trip by Columbus they had to make a stopover in Gran Canaria to repair 🔨 one of their ships, La Pinta. A stop where they took the opportunity to stock up on food and also changed the sails to another of the caravels, La Niña. The lateen sails that she had before were changed for round ones that facilitated navigation through the Atlantic ⛵ and from that moment she became the favorite ship of Columbus 😍. And where do you think we learned this? 🤓 Well, in the Colon House Museum. In fact, in it you can see a part of La Niña with some of the original objects from the first trip ⚗.
Halaaaa, how curious! 😮😮
In reality, Columbus never had a house on the island 🏝. In fact, the museum occupies an entire block bringing together four old houses. One of them was the Governor's House, which is believed to have sheltered Columbus on occasion. In fact, Christopher Columbus was in Las Palmas on his first, third and fourth trips to the Americas 🤓.
Another of the things we liked the most about the museum was the house it occupies and getting lost in its patios. We assure you that it is worth it 👍. In one of them we were able to greet these macaws 🦜 that are freely walking around the museum 😊.
When they feel like it, they go out to say hello 👋, like when we came. They told us that one of them was swearing 🤭, but they didn't say any to us. And that we spent a while talking with them and trying to teach them the Minion language 🗣.
#MiniOnTip to take the photo 📷 of the front of the Casa de Colón. On Sundays there is a market around the cathedral and the Casa de Colón, so if you want to take the photo from the outside you will have to wait for the stalls to be removed 😊. When we arrived we had cars parked in front 🚙 and the door was not visible 🚪. We decided to take the photo again after eating and it was just like that 😎.
8. Visit the Canarian Museum, another of the places to see in Vegueta
Another of the museums that you have to see in the Vegueta neighborhood is the Museo Canario 🔝. There you can get to know in depth the culture that developed in Gran Canaria before the conquest of the islands 🏝, which ended in the 15th century. As we have already told you in other articles in our Gran Canaria Travel Guide, canaries lived in caves and stone houses 🏡. In the museum several objects from that time are preserved, but we have been told that one of the pieces that most attract the attention of the exhibition are some mummies that live there and that have made more than one hair stand on end 😵.
We didn't have time to see it because we visited the city on a Sunday and they closed at 2:00 p.m. We will definitely get closer the next time we go to Las Palmas 😊.
9. Enter the Atlantic Center of Modern Art
Strolling through the streets of Vegueta we come across the CAAM: the Atlantic Center of Modern Art, which was founded in 1989 🤓. Inside you can see exhibitions of the avant-garde and current art 🎨 while enjoying the cool building in which it is installed 🏛.
The CAAM is located in a historic building on Calle de los Balcones, which, as you can imagine, receives its name from the cool ones that are the little balconies of their houses 🏡. Did you know that some of the richest families on the island lived on this street 😲?
10. Discover the Plaza de San Agustín
We arrive at one of the most characteristic corners of the Vegueta neighborhood. Yes my friend, here you can take a photo with the letters of flowers 🥀 with which we have started the tour of this neighborhood 😍, but it has many more things to see 👀, stork included (enlarge the photo and look at the bell tower, hee).
Did you know that in the Plaza de San Agustín you can see the temple of the oldest parish in Gran Canaria 🧐? So that's it. We have been told that on the site occupied today by the Hermitage of San Agustín, there used to be the Hermitage of "Cristo de la Vera Cruz" ⛪ in the year 1524 and also the Augustinian convent that was built from 1664, although nowadays in its land is the Palacio de la Audiencia, which is the seat of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands ⚖.
255 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Vegueta
One of the places that you cannot miss in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the Barrio de Vegueta 👌. It is the neighborhood in which the city was founded and the combination of its history 🤓 with its streets of colonial houses, museums and monuments make it a very special place 😍. Do you already have a pen or paper ✍? Well, the notepad on your mobile is also worth 📱. Well, you're ready to discover with MiniOnTour 10 cool places that you have to see in Vegueta.
1. Know the place where it all started
Did you know that Las Palmas de Gran Canaria was the first city founded by the Crown of Castile in the Atlantic 😵? Specifically in the year 1478, and it all began in what is now the Barrio de Vegueta. This was the place chosen by Captain Juan Rejón to install a military camp, at the mouth of the Barranco del Guiniguada.
Yes, Las Palmas was founded before Christopher Columbus's trip to the Americas ⛵, so if you thought that the style of colonial houses that you are going to see in the Vegueta neighborhood was brought to them by the Spanish who emigrated to the American continent, you are very wrong ❌. In fact, it was the city of Las Palmas that served as an example to build many cities in America. How strong, right? 😲
The founding nucleus of the city is in the Plaza de San Antonio Abad, where you can see the Mudejar Hermitage of San Antonio Abad ⛪, one of the essentials to see in Vegueta. We have been told that this hermitage occupies the place where the camp chapel built by the conquerors was built, and that Columbus prayed in it 🙏 before leaving on his first trip to the New World 🌏.
2. Discover the first plaza mayor that was planned in Spain
Yes, you read that right 👍, we also gave a whoa! when they told us 🗣. The Plaza de Santa Ana was the first major square that was planned in Spain 🧐. In this square are grouped some of the most important buildings 🔝 of the capital such as the cathedral, the Town Hall, the Provincial Historical Archive, the Episcopal Palace or the Regental House. So we don't have to tell you that it should be a must on your list of things to see in the Vegueta neighborhood during your visit to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Guarding the square we find 8 bronze dogs 🐕 very loved by the inhabitants of the city. They have told us that there are eight, because they represent the main islands of the Canary Islands and that they are known as "the guardians of Santa Ana." The truth is that we were afraid to approach in case they bit us, but then they told us that they are harmless 🤣, and that if you are small they will let you get on them to take a picture 📷.
3. Admire the Cathedral of Santa Ana, one of the things to see in Vegueta
Without a doubt, one of the things that will catch your attention in Plaza de Santa Ana is the cathedral ⛪. The Catholic Monarchs 👑 decided that it should be built in 1487 and their works began ten years later 👷, but they stopped between 1570 and 1781. In fact, its facade was not finished until the end of the last century. That explains why you can find different architectural styles in it 🤓.
Inside you can also visit the Museum of Sacred Art, the Patio de los Naranjos 🍊 and climb one of its towers to see the city from above 👀.
4. Approach the Town Hall and the Regental House
Right in front of the cathedral you will find the Town Hall, a neo-Mudejar style building that was the headquarters of the municipal offices until 1979. If you want to see them from the inside, Las Palmas City Council organizes free guided tours on Sundays. We recommend that you check the schedules before going ⌚.
5. He hallucinates with the building of the Episcopal Palace
Yes my friend, we are still in the Plaza de Santa Ana 😊. We had already told you that there were many things to see here 👀, but don't worry, we ended up with the Episcopal Palace, which is so big that it occupies a full block hehe 😵. The door that we liked the most is this, which is on the street to the right as you exit the cathedral.
6. Buy tasty things at the Vegueta Market
They have told us that in this market you can carry your bag of delicious things and that there are some top quality Canarian bananas 🍌. Yes, we have already told you in another article about our route through Gran Canaria that after trying them we decided to leave the bananas, hehe 😇. We like these more 🤤.
As a curiosity we tell you 🗣 that this was the first food market in the city. It opened its doors in 1787. As we visited the city on a Sunday, we had no luck and we found it closed 🚪. Buying fruits 🥥 and vegetables 🥑 in this market is another of the pending tasks 📝 for the next time we come to Gran Canaria.
7. Travel back in time at the Casa de Colón
If you follow our adventures on our blog, you will already know that we loved discovering America from the Muelle de las Carabelas, a very cool museum located in Huelva where you can get to know in detail 🔍 Columbus's first trip to the new continent 🌏 and even get on the replicas of the caravels ⛵ that accompanied him on his journey. Well, at the Casa de Colón in Las Palmas we learned even more about those trips 🗺, so for us it is one of the places you have to see in Vegueta.
As we already told you, on that first trip by Columbus they had to make a stopover in Gran Canaria to repair 🔨 one of their ships, La Pinta. A stop where they took the opportunity to stock up on food and also changed the sails to another of the caravels, La Niña. The lateen sails that she had before were changed for round ones that facilitated navigation through the Atlantic ⛵ and from that moment she became the favorite ship of Columbus 😍. And where do you think we learned this? 🤓 Well, in the Colon House Museum. In fact, in it you can see a part of La Niña with some of the original objects from the first trip ⚗.
Halaaaa, how curious! 😮😮
In reality, Columbus never had a house on the island 🏝. In fact, the museum occupies an entire block bringing together four old houses. One of them was the Governor's House, which is believed to have sheltered Columbus on occasion. In fact, Christopher Columbus was in Las Palmas on his first, third and fourth trips to the Americas 🤓.
Another of the things we liked the most about the museum was the house it occupies and getting lost in its patios. We assure you that it is worth it 👍. In one of them we were able to greet these macaws 🦜 that are freely walking around the museum 😊.
When they feel like it, they go out to say hello 👋, like when we came. They told us that one of them was swearing 🤭, but they didn't say any to us. And that we spent a while talking with them and trying to teach them the Minion language 🗣.
#MiniOnTip to take the photo 📷 of the front of the Casa de Colón. On Sundays there is a market around the cathedral and the Casa de Colón, so if you want to take the photo from the outside you will have to wait for the stalls to be removed 😊. When we arrived we had cars parked in front 🚙 and the door was not visible 🚪. We decided to take the photo again after eating and it was just like that 😎.
8. Visit the Canarian Museum, another of the places to see in Vegueta
Another of the museums that you have to see in the Vegueta neighborhood is the Museo Canario 🔝. There you can get to know in depth the culture that developed in Gran Canaria before the conquest of the islands 🏝, which ended in the 15th century. As we have already told you in other articles in our Gran Canaria Travel Guide, canaries lived in caves and stone houses 🏡. In the museum several objects from that time are preserved, but we have been told that one of the pieces that most attract the attention of the exhibition are some mummies that live there and that have made more than one hair stand on end 😵.
We didn't have time to see it because we visited the city on a Sunday and they closed at 2:00 p.m. We will definitely get closer the next time we go to Las Palmas 😊.
9. Enter the Atlantic Center of Modern Art
Strolling through the streets of Vegueta we come across the CAAM: the Atlantic Center of Modern Art, which was founded in 1989 🤓. Inside you can see exhibitions of the avant-garde and current art 🎨 while enjoying the cool building in which it is installed 🏛.
The CAAM is located in a historic building on Calle de los Balcones, which, as you can imagine, receives its name from the cool ones that are the little balconies of their houses 🏡. Did you know that some of the richest families on the island lived on this street 😲?
10. Discover the Plaza de San Agustín
We arrive at one of the most characteristic corners of the Vegueta neighborhood. Yes my friend, here you can take a photo with the letters of flowers 🥀 with which we have started the tour of this neighborhood 😍, but it has many more things to see 👀, stork included (enlarge the photo and look at the bell tower, hee).
Did you know that in the Plaza de San Agustín you can see the temple of the oldest parish in Gran Canaria 🧐? So that's it. We have been told that on the site occupied today by the Hermitage of San Agustín, there used to be the Hermitage of "Cristo de la Vera Cruz" ⛪ in the year 1524 and also the Augustinian convent that was built from 1664, although nowadays in its land is the Palacio de la Audiencia, which is the seat of the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands ⚖.