Gran Canaria is often called a “continent in miniature”. In just one day you can experience desert-like landscapes, mountain ravines, green valleys, plantations and wild cliffs plunging straight into the ocean. The central part of the island is mountainous – even the drive along its winding roads is an attraction in itself.
Finca La Laya – vineyard and coffee plantation
Finca La Laya is a family-run farm where you can taste local wines, coffee and marmalades.
- wine, coffee & marmalade tasting,
- a small shop with organic juices and preserves,
- set among green hills far away from the tourist resorts.
Maspalomas Dunes
One of the most iconic places on Gran Canaria.
- a vast area of golden sand resembling a desert,
- perfect conditions for photography, especially at sunset,
- the possibility of walking among the dunes with ocean views.
A chance meeting with a photographer on the dunes
I spent quite a lot of time on the Maspalomas dunes taking photos and videos of the sand, and I happened to meet a photographer named Manuel Lérida. We took a few photos together – here they are:
Los Azulejos – colourful rocks
Los Azulejos are extraordinary multicoloured rock formations in the central part of the island.
- intense colours created by volcanic processes,
- by the road there is a small shop selling juices, fruit and local products.
Agaete natural pools – Puerto de las Nieves
On the north-western coast of the island you will find natural volcanic pools where you can swim even when the ocean is rough.
- a perfect spot for sunset,
- a peaceful atmosphere of a small fishing town.
Blue Ocean Camp – a night at the end of the world
Blue Ocean Camp is a place for those who truly want to disconnect.
- overnight stays in distinctive spherical pods,
- no mobile signal and occasional power cuts,
- the last 5 km lead along a gravel road,
- located right by the ocean, close to the hiking trail to Playa de Güigüi.
Additional places worth including
Roque Nublo
The symbol of the island – a monumental rock in the heart of the mountains. A short hike leads to one of the best viewpoints on Gran Canaria.
Pico de las Nieves
The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views over the entire central region, and on clear days even as far as Tenerife.
Barranco de Guayadeque
A deep ravine with cave houses, restaurants built into the rock and green agricultural terraces.
Playa de Güigüi
One of the wildest beaches on the island, accessible only on foot or by boat – perfect for those seeking silence and raw nature.
Gran Canaria is an island of contrasts – from desert dunes to lush valleys and rugged cliffs. It is the perfect destination for travellers who want to combine sightseeing, trekking, nature and moments of complete disconnection from civilisation.
Malvina Dunder 
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