A Day in Artenara: Gran Canaria’s Coolest Escape in the Clouds
If you’re itching to swap the beach crowds for mountain air and soul-soothing views, Artenara is your spot. Tucked high in the rugged heart of Gran Canaria, this tiny town is all about caves, cliffs, and wow-worthy panoramas. We mentioned it in our road trip guide, but it deserves a spotlight of its own, because once you go, you’ll understand the hype.
Wait, Where Is Artenara Exactly?
Perched at 1,270 meters above sea level, Artenara is the highest village on the island and the smallest municipality, too. The name likely traces back to the island’s indigenous roots, meaning something like “highland place.” Today, it’s part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and trust us: it feels like stepping into a postcard, minus the filter.
Getting There: Worth the Winding Roads
Artenara’s remoteness is part of the charm, but yes, you’ve got to earn those views. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, mostly on scenic (read: curvy) mountain roads via Teror and Valleseco. If driving’s not your thing, there’s bus 220 from Guaguas Global, but with only a few trips a day, plan ahead or pack snacks.
Go Underground at the Casas Cuevas Museum
First stop: the Museo Etnográfico de Casas Cuevas. It’s a humble but fascinating cave home turned museum that lets you peek into the island’s pre-tourist, pre-wifi lifestyle. It’s free to enter, with optional donations that help keep the place running. The volunteer staff are full of stories and there’s a handy multilingual brochure for extra context. Bonus: the vibe is chill, not stuffy.
Scenic Stops: Miradores You Don’t Want to Miss
Grab your phone (and maybe a sweater, it’s cooler up here) and make your way to these lookout points:
- Mirador de Atalaya: You’ll spot Forestas and Protego, two abstract sculptures celebrating the island’s natural zones. It’s arty, a little trippy, and seriously photogenic.
- Mirador de Unamuno: Named after the Spanish philosopher who visited in 1910 and instantly fell in love with the views. There’s a statue of him here, still admiring the landscape.
Lunch with a View (and a Local Twist)
Hungry? Head to Bar Restaurante La Casa del Correo, a laid-back spot near the museum with tapas that hit the spot and a peaceful little piazza to soak it all in. Prefer something more conscious and organic? Check out Bio Tasca right across the way for local produce and zero-km goodness. Either way, you’ll leave full and happy.
Before You Head Back…
If you’ve still got some energy, swing by nearby Tejeda or Cruz de Tejeda for a sweet leche y leche and a scenic stroll. It’s the kind of mini detour that makes the whole day feel even more like a well-kept secret.
