Tag: mirador
Where to Find That Jaw-Dropping View in Gran Canaria: Mirador de Montaña Alta
If you love a good lookout spot, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t, Mirador de Montaña Alta should absolutely be on your Gran Canaria hit list. Tucked into the lush hills of Santa María de Guía, it serves up 360 degrees of pure, unfiltered wow. Think misty mountains, patchwork valleys, the Atlantic shimmering in the distance… and on a clear day, even a peek at Tenerife doing its majestic thing on the horizon.
It’s peaceful, it’s beautiful, and it’s the kind of place that makes you stop, breathe, and remember why you came to the Canary Islands in the first place.
🧭 Getting There Without Getting Lost
Let your GPS do the hard work. Just pop in “Casa del Queso” as your destination. That’ll take you straight to the car park, which is free (yay!) but not massive, so maybe aim for off-peak hours. From there, it’s just a short walk up some stone steps to the viewpoint.
A quick note: the steps are big and not ideal if you need mobility assistance. It’s not a long climb, but it’s a bit of a leg-stretcher.
🌄 So… What Can You Actually See?
Where do we start? From the top, you’ve got a front-row seat to:
- The green folds of Doramas Park
- The pine-covered peaks of Tamadaba
- The northern coastline stretching off into blue infinity
- And on clear days, even other islands popping up on the horizon
It’s panoramic, photogenic, and wonderfully peaceful. You might even get it all to yourself if you time it right.
🧀 Don’t Skip the Cheese
Right next to the stairs is Casa del Queso, a tiny treasure trove of local cheese history and snacks. If you’re a fan of flavour (and who isn’t?), pop in to learn about the island’s traditional cheesemaking techniques and try a slice of Queso de Flor de Guía. They’ve got a shop too, so you can bring some of that deliciousness home.
And yes, there are toilets at the bottom of the steps. Always good to know.
🌅 When to Go and What to Bring
Want that golden-hour glow? Head up early morning or late afternoon. The light gets extra magical and the air a bit fresher. Just keep in mind, the landscape looks its lushest after rainfall. In summer, things tend to dry out a bit, so the views might not be quite as postcard-perfect. Still stunning, just a little less green. Just bring:
- A jacket, it’s cooler up there than down by the beach
- Some water and snacks (no café at the top)
- Your camera or phone with plenty of battery
- A little patience for the drive, it’s scenic but curvy
💫 Why It’s Worth the Trip
Mirador de Montaña Alta is simple, peaceful and seriously photogenic. Add a side of cheese and a breeze in your hair, and you’ve got a pretty perfect Gran Canaria day out.
Heads up! Info like opening hours, facilities or access might change from time to time. If you notice anything out of date, please drop us a quick message in Slack so we can keep things up to scratch.
Roadtrip: Gáldar, Mirador del Balcón, Los Azulejos de Veneguera, Puerto de Mogán, Amadores and Maspalomas (± 3½ hours driving)
Get set for an island adventure like no other! We’re gearing up for a tour around Gran Canaria, going counter-clockwise with some jaw-dropping views along the west coast. Get ready for winding roads and epic scenery that’ll make your camera work overtime. We’ll be cruising through charming towns, soaking in stunning vistas, and maybe even catching a glimpse of the ocean spray. So buckle up, grab your camera, and let’s hit the road for an unforgettable journey around Gran Canaria!
Get Some Lunch To Go
Before hitting the road, make a quick pit stop at La Garriga, a shop in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria known for its delicious takeaway sandwiches. Grab some sandwiches to fuel up for the journey ahead. They have several locations in the city, just go to your nearest one and stock up. You’ll thank me later!
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Gáldar
- Driving Time: ~35 minutes
- Activity: Explore Gáldar
- Upon reaching Gáldar, immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and culture. Visit the impressive Church of Santiago and delve into the fascinating exhibits at the Cueva Pintada Museum, which offers insights into the ancient Guanche civilization.
Mirador del Balcón
- Driving Time: ~45 minutes from Gáldar
- Activity: Scenic Stop at Mirador del Balcón
- Continue your journey towards the west coast and make a stop at Mirador del Balcón. From this vantage point, marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you. Be prepared for some next-level wind!
Los Azulejos de Veneguera
- Driving Time: ~35 minutes from Mirador del Balcón
- Activity: Explore Los Azulejos de Veneguera
- Next, head to Los Azulejos de Veneguera, a hidden gem known for its vibrant geological formations. Take your time to wander among the colorful patterns of the volcanic rock, appreciating the unique beauty shaped by centuries of natural processes. Just be careful, because the road is right next to it. This is also a great stop to have a drink and the little shops next to the road.
Visit Puerto de Mogán
- Driving Time: ~20 minutes from Los Azulejos de Veneguera
- Activity: Explore Puerto de Mogán
- Continue your journey to Puerto de Mogán, a charming seaside village often referred to as the “Venice of Gran Canaria.” Stroll along the picturesque marina, admire the quaint architecture, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this idyllic coastal town.
Beachtime at Playa de Amadores
- Driving Time: ~10 minutes from Puerto de Mogán
- Activity: Relax on Playa de Amadores
- After exploring Puerto de Mogán, head to Playa de Amadores, a stunning beach known for its soft golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Spend some time unwinding on the shore, soaking up the sun’s warmth, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this beautiful coastal paradise. There’s a lot of free parking available, but if all spots are taken you can park for a low price in the underground parking.
Sunset* in Dunas de Maspalomas
- Driving Time: ~20 minutes from Playa de Amadores
- Activity: Enjoy Sunset at Dunas de Maspalomas
- As the day draws to a close, make your way to Dunas de Maspalomas to witness the spectacular sunset over the sand dunes. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, savoring the tranquility and natural beauty of this iconic landscape. Don’t forget that the dunes are a protected nature reserve and you’re not allowed to walk through the dunes. You can only walk on the designatede paths.
*Keep in mind that in Winter the Sunset can be as early as 6pm and in Summer as late as 9.30pm.
Return to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Driving Time: ~45 minutes from Maspalomas to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Activity: Relax and unwind in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- As you drive back to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, reflect on the day’s memorable experiences and enjoy a relaxing evening in the vibrant city. Whether you choose to explore the bustling streets or unwind on the waterfront promenade.
Total Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours and 40 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.
- 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.
Embark on this scenic anti-clockwise road trip around Gran Canaria to discover the island’s stunning landscapes, charming towns, and tranquil beaches. From cultural exploration to natural wonders, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of this Canary Island paradise.
5 Picnic Locations in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a beautiful city that offers a variety of scenic spots for picnicking. Whether you prefer a beach setting, a panoramic view, or a lush park, this city has something for everyone.
Playa del Confital
One great location is Playa del Confital. This beach provides a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a picnic. The golden sands and clear waters make it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a meal with friends or family. The natural beauty of the area, combined with the soothing sound of the waves, creates a serene environment that is hard to beat.
Estadio Insular
Another unique picnic spot is Estadio Insular. Once a bustling football stadium, it has been transformed into a beautiful urban park. Located in the Ciudad Jardín neighborhood, it offers grassy areas and tree-lined paths. The park retains some of the original stadium’s structure, adding a historical touch to your picnic experience. It’s a wonderful place to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the local history.
Las Coloradas
Another fantastic option is the viewpoint Mirador Norte de Las Coloradas, behind the neighborhood of Las Coloradas. This spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the ocean. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but the effort is well worth it. Once you reach the top, you can spread out your picnic blanket and take in the stunning scenery. It’s a perfect place for those who enjoy a bit of adventure along with their meal.
Behind the Auditorio
For those who prefer a more urban setting, the grassy areas behind the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus are a great choice. These spots offer a peaceful retreat within the city, where you can sit down and enjoy a picnic. The well-maintained lawns and the proximity to the ocean make it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy some outdoor picnic.
Parque Doramas
Lastly, Parque Doramas is a popular picnic spot in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This spacious park has plenty of open spaces for outdoor dining, as well as beautiful gardens and fountains. It’s a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon, surrounded by greenery and the sounds of nature. The park’s central location also makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
Whatever your preference, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has plenty of great options for picnicking. Each spot offers its own unique charm and beauty, ensuring that you can find the perfect place to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Hungry? Check our recommendations for paella restaurants, seafood restaurants and tapas restaurants! If you want to learn more about the local Canarian cuisine, check this article.