Exploring Gran Canaria: An unforgettable trip by bike and trekking

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines history, nature, and spectacular landscapes, our Gran Canaria tour is the perfect choice. Get ready to discover an island rich in excitement and breathtaking beauty that will make your vacation unforgettable through mountain biking and trekking activities. Gran Canaria, known as a "miniature continent," surprises visitors with its incredible variety of landscapes and biodiversity. With its 49 distinct microclimates, the island offers the opportunity to explore and engage in sports activities at any time of the year. Start your journey in the capital, Las Palmas. In the city, you can admire charming colonial buildings and immerse yourself in local life. Don’t forget to relax on Las Canteras Beach, one of the most spectacular on the island, where the azure ocean meets golden sand. Our tour will then take you to Arucas, a gem of the island famous for its impressive Church of San Juan Bautista and its rum and wine production. Arucas will surprise you with its authentic charm and long-standing tradition. Prepare to be breathless in front of the Gran Canyon, a natural masterpiece created by the power of water and wind. Biking along its trails is an experience that will make you feel in harmony with nature. Roque Nublo is one of the island's most iconic symbols. This towering rock, shaped by millennia of erosion, offers a panoramic view that will leave you in awe. Reaching its summit is an adventure that rewards you with a spectacular view and a sense of accomplishment. To immerse yourself in history, explore the Risco Caído archaeological site, a complex of rock dwellings that reflects the culture of the island's early inhabitants. Finally, end your journey in Maspalomas, known for its stunning sand dunes. This almost desert-like landscape offers a surprising contrast with the ocean, giving you a unique experience through activities and walks, providing you with an unforgettable adventure. Each stop on this tour is designed to offer you an experience full of emotions, natural beauty, and cultural discoveries.

To delve deeper into the curiosities about the destination we interviewed Silvia Donatiello, the Tourism Delegate for Gran Canaria in Italy.

1. How does the landscape of Gran Canaria vary between the north and the south of the island, and what makes each area unique for tourists? What are the main species of flora and fauna found in Gran Canaria, and how do they vary according to the island's different ecosystems?

“Gran Canaria hosts a wide range of landscapes, each offering a unique experience for tourists. In the north, the more humid climate supports lush laurel forests, rich in evergreen vegetation and endemic species like Laurus azorica and Persea indica. In contrast, the southern valleys are dominated by an arid environment with desert dunes and drought-adapted plants, such as Traganum moquinii. The island's flora varies significantly by region. For instance, the Maspalomas dunes in the south are home to plants resistant to dry conditions, while the Canary pine forests are found in the central mountainous areas, such as the Nublo Rural Park. This diversity of habitats provides refuge for a rich variety of animal species, from endemic birds like the Canary stonechat to reptiles like the Gran Canaria giant lizard, and even marine species such as dolphins and turtles. Gran Canaria is not only a destination for sunbathing but also a paradise for nature lovers, thanks to its biodiversity that spans from coastal areas to mountainous regions.”

2. Las Palmas hosts significant cultural events throughout the year. What are the most important ones, as well as some of the lesser-known events? When do they take place?

“Las Palmas is a vibrant city that offers a rich variety of cultural events all year round, both internationally and locally. Among the most famous is the Carnaval de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, held between February and March. This colorful and lively event features parades, music, and the renowned contests for the Carnival Queen and Drag Queen. In April, the Festival Internacional de Cine attracts film enthusiasts with auteur and innovative films, while in June, the Fiestas Fundacionales celebrate the city's foundation with concerts and historical reenactments in the Vegueta neighborhood. In January and February, the Festival de Música de Canarias brings prestigious classical music artists to the island. Among the lesser-known events, the Día de Canarias on May 30th animates the city with local traditions. On October 31st, the Noche de Finaos is an intimate occasion to remember the deceased, with shared stories and traditional foods. Whether it's major festivals or more intimate celebrations, Las Palmas offers unique cultural events in every season.”

3. Maspalomas is famous for its dunes and beaches, but what other attractions does it offer for those interested in discovering the local culture?

“In addition to its spectacular dunes, Maspalomas offers several cultural attractions. The Faro de Maspalomas, one of the area's landmarks, houses an interpretation center that tells the local history and provides breathtaking panoramic views. The Tony Gallardo Park and the Maspalomas Dunes Visitor Center allow you to explore the area's rich biodiversity. For those who enjoy local flavors, the Mercado Agrícola de San Fernando is the perfect place to discover traditional Canary products and crafts. Throughout the year, Maspalomas also hosts traditional festivals such as the Romería de San Bartolomé de Tirajana and the famous Carnaval Internacional de Maspalomas, which blend tradition with entertainment. Additionally, notable sports events include the Epic in February and Gran Canaria Bike Week in December.”

4. What indigenous traditions have been preserved by the local population and how are they celebrated?

“The indigenous traditions of Gran Canaria, linked to the ancient Canarii people, are still present on the island through rituals, festivals, and cultural practices. Although colonial influence has altered many of these customs, some traditions have been preserved by local communities. Key celebrations include the Fiesta del Almendro en Flor in Tejeda, which echoes ancient fertility rituals, and the Fiesta de la Rama in Agaete, rooted in rain invocation rituals. Many religious festivals, such as the Virgen del Pino in Teror, combine Catholic elements with indigenous traditions. In sports, Lucha Canaria and Juego del Palo derive from ancient ritual combats, while Salto del Pastor is a technique used for moving along mountain slopes. Craftsmanship and gastronomy also reflect indigenous heritage, with traditional ceramics and gofio, a pre-Hispanic staple food. Additionally, the island's toponymy retains Guanche-origin names like 'Tamadaba' and 'Telde,' and ancient symbols such as 'pintaderas' are reinterpreted in contemporary art. Despite changes, Gran Canaria manages to keep many of its ancient indigenous traditions alive, preserving a rich cultural heritage.”

5. Are there local markets where tourists can purchase typical products?

“Yes, in Gran Canaria, tourists can discover authentic local flavors and traditional crafts by visiting the numerous markets scattered across the island. Each municipality hosts a weekly market where fresh products and local specialties can be purchased. Some of the most renowned markets include: Mercado de Vegueta in the historic center of Las Palmas, offering a wide range of fresh products, artisanal cheeses, and local wines. Mercado Agricola de San Mateo in the central mountains, ideal for buying fruits, vegetables, honey, and homemade bread. Mercadillo de Arucas, known for its rum, also offers cheeses, sweets, and wicker crafts. Mercado de Puerto de Mogán, a popular Friday market featuring fresh products, handmade jewelry, and leather goods. These markets represent the heart of local culture, where visitors can savor and take home a piece of Canary tradition.”

6. What are the traditional dishes and key ingredients that best represent Gran Canaria's cuisine?

“Gran Canaria’s cuisine is rich in authentic flavors that reflect the island’s local products and culinary traditions. The dishes that best represent the local gastronomy include: Papas arrugadas con mojo, potatoes cooked with their skins on and served with spicy sauce or coriander sauce. Ropa vieja, a stew made with meat (chicken or beef) and chickpeas, prepared with spices for a rich and comforting flavor. Sancocho Canario, Salted fish cooked with sweet potatoes, toasted cereal flour, and mojo sauce. Carne de Cabra, slow-cooked goat meat, highly valued in rural tradition. The most commonly used ingredients are: Gofio: toasted cereal flour used in many sweet and savory recipes. Queso de Flor: a traditional goat cheese curdled with cardoon flower. Miel de Palma: a natural sweetener obtained from palm sap, used in desserts and typical dishes. Banane Canarie: small, sweet bananas, a symbol of local gastronomy. These dishes and ingredients not only delight the palate but also tell the story and culture of Gran Canaria.”

7. Are there traditions related to rum and wine production in Arucas? What unique experiences can visits to the city’s distilleries offer?

“In Arucas, a picturesque town in northern Gran Canaria, rum and wine production is a deeply rooted tradition that reflects the island’s history and culture. These products not only reflect local heritage but also offer unique experiences for visitors. One of the most renowned rums from the islands is Rum Arehucas. The Arehucas Distillery, founded in 1884, is among the oldest in Europe and preserves traditional rum distillation techniques. Guided tours of the distillery allow visitors to explore various stages of production, from fermentation to distillation, and taste a selection of rums, including aged and flavored varieties. Additionally, the Rum Museum provides an exhibition on the history of rum with antique equipment and historical documents. Arucas is also known for its wine production, particularly Malvasia, a type of wine appreciated since colonial times. Local viticulture takes advantage of the volcanic soil and unique climate, giving the wines a distinctive flavor. One of the well-known wineries for local wine experiences and tastings is Bodega Los Berrazale in the Valle de Agaete, where visitors can tour the vineyards and coffee and avocado plantations. Gran Canaria also produces “heroic” wines made in challenging growing conditions, such as steep slopes and rugged terrain. These wines are characterized by a unique balance between acidity and sweetness, thanks to the contrast between daytime heat and nighttime coolness.”

@silviadonatiello, born in Turin and adopted by the Canary Islands, founder of RM Ideas Factory, a marketing boutique, collaborates with public and private entities, both national and international, in the promotion, dissemination, and enhancement of territories.

Don’t miss the chance to experience this extraordinary adventure that will allow you to explore every captivating corner of Gran Canaria, taking home unforgettable memories.