Roadtrip: Bandama, Santa Brígida, Pico de las Nieves, Fataga and Maspalomas (± 3 ¾ hours driving)
Take a day to discover Gran Canaria’s variety. Your trip will take you from the impressive craters to small towns full of local culture. See Caldera de Bandama up close, enjoy Santa Brígida, and go up to Pico de las Nieves for great views. Drive through Fataga Valley’s scenic roads and relax at Playa del Inglés’ beach. This guide gives you tips for a great trip, showing you places in Gran Canaria. Get ready for a day of exploration and fun!
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Caldera de Bandama
- Driving Time: ~20 minutes
- Activity: Visit Bandama Caldera
- Explore the Bandama Caldera, a volcanic crater offering stunning views and interesting hiking trails. Walk to the bottom of the caldera or hike around the rim for a panoramic view of the island.
Visit Santa Brígida
- Driving Time: ~15 minutes from Bandama Caldera to Santa Brígida
- Activity: Explore Santa Brígida
- Visit the historic town of Santa Brígida, known for its traditional Canarian architecture.
Lunch in Santa Brígida
- Activity: Lunch in Santa Brígida
- Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Canarian dishes such as “ropa vieja” (a hearty meat and vegetable stew) and local wines. Or… Try this new place, Soul Food Cafe! Their cheesecake is delicious!
Amazing views from Pico de las Nieves
- Driving Time: ~40 minutes from Santa Brígida to Pico de las Nieves
- Activity: Visit Pico de las Nieves
- Drive to the highest point on the island, Pico de las Nieves, for breathtaking views of Gran Canaria and, on clear days, the neighboring island of Tenerife. Spend some time taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
Enjoy Fataga
- Driving Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes from Pico de las Nieves to Fataga
- Activity: Explore Fataga Valley
- Drive through the picturesque Fataga Valley, known as the “Valley of the Thousand Palms.” Visit the charming village of Fataga, walk through its narrow streets, and enjoy the traditional Canarian atmosphere.
End the day in Playa del Inglés
- Driving Time: ~30 minutes from Fataga to Playa del Inglés
- Activity: Relax at Playa del Inglés
- Spend the late afternoon relaxing on the famous beach of Playa del Inglés and visit the famous Dunas de Maspalomas. Take a swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports.
Return to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Driving Time: ~45 minutes from Playa del Inglés to Las Palmas
- Activity: Evening in Las Palmas
- Stroll through the vibrant city, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or relax at your accommodation.
Total Driving Time: ~3 hours 45 minutes
Tips for the Trip
- Early Start: Begin early to make the most of your day and avoid midday heat.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and bring layers for varying temperatures, especially in higher altitudes.
- Snacks and Water: Bring plenty of water and snacks for the day.
- Navigation: Use a reliable GPS or map app to navigate the mountain roads and ensure a smooth trip.
Enjoy your one-day road trip exploring the diverse landscapes and attractions of Gran Canaria!
