Okay, I know what you’re thinking: Gran Canaria? Isn’t that all about beaches and resorts? But hold on a sec! Tucked away in the north of the island, you’ll find Arucas, a town that’s bursting with so much history, culture, and stunning scenery, you might just forget about the coast altogether. (Okay, maybe not completely forget about it, but you get the idea.)
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Morning: Parks, Views, and Volcanic Landscapes
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Parque Municipal de Arucas, a green oasis where locals hang out. You might see people chatting, exercising, or just enjoying the fresh air. The park has a pretty bandstand where you can sometimes catch live music on weekends. Take a look at the exotic flowers and tall palm trees before heading into town.
Next, get ready for some amazing views at the Mirador de la Montaña de Arucas. It’s a short walk uphill (you can also drive if walking doesn’t appeal!), but it’s worth it! From the top, you can see the whole town and the surrounding valleys. It’s a great spot to take photos of Arucas’ colorful houses, the volcanic landscape, and the ocean. And speaking of volcanoes, Arucas sits on a fertile plain formed by the Arucas volcano, which has shaped the landscape and enriched the soil.
Afternoon: A Feast for the Senses (and the Stomach!)
When you’re feeling hungry, grab some lunch in town. Head to Plaza de San Juan, dominated by the impressive Church of San Juan Bautista. Here you’ll find La Catedral Bistro, a great spot to try some traditional Canarian cuisine. Order up some “papas arrugadas” (wrinkled potatoes) with “mojo” sauce – they’re delicious! Or go for a seafood paella for a real taste of the island.
After lunch, it’s time to explore the town’s cultural side. Step inside the Church of San Juan Bautista, a beautiful neo-Gothic church that looks like a cathedral. It has an impressive facade with tall spires, and inside, you can check out the stained-glass windows and the ornate altar.
From there, wander down Calle León y Castillo. It’s a great place to do some shopping. You can find local shops selling handcrafted souvenirs, traditional Canarian pottery, and other unique gifts. And if you’re looking for a local experience, pop into a “guachinche,” a type of tavern that serves homemade wine and tapas.
Afternoon: Rum, Bananas, and (Maybe) a Quick Dip
Arucas is also known for its rum. Why not take a tour of the Arehucas Rum Distillery? It’s one of the oldest distilleries in the Canary Islands. You can learn how they make rum from sugarcane and even do a tasting. Don’t forget to try the honey rum – it’s a local specialty!
And if you’re a banana lover, you’re in luck! Arucas has the only Banana Museum in the Canary Islands. You can learn all about the different types of bananas grown here and how important they are to the island’s culture.
Now, if you’re really craving some beach time, you can always take a quick trip to the coast. There are some great beaches nearby, like San Andrés for sunbathing and Los Enanos for surfing. But honestly, with everything else Arucas has to offer, you might not even miss the sand!
Or if you want to hang around make your way to Plaza del Doctor Joaquín Blanco. This is a lively square with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the afternoon. Grab a table at a cafe and sip a cool drink while soaking up the local vibe.
Evening: Soaking up the Local Vibe
As the day ends, make your way to Plaza de la Constitución, the main square in Arucas. This is where locals like to gather, so it’s a good place to relax at a café, have a drink, and soak up the friendly atmosphere. You might even stumble upon a local festival or event happening in the square.
If you’re up for some evening fun, Arucas has a few options. You could catch some live music at a local bar, see a traditional Canarian folk dance performance, or watch a movie at the cute Cine Arucas.
Arucas: Your Next Adventure Awaits
So, if you’re looking for a different kind of Gran Canaria experience, ditch the crowds and head to Arucas. With its fascinating history, unique culture, and stunning scenery, it’s a place that will surprise and delight you. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Where to stay in Teror, Firgas, and Arucas
If you are skipping the crowded resort hubs of the south to actually experience the northern hills, your accommodation choices match that shift in perspective. In and around towns like Arucas, you are mostly choosing between historic town centers and rural valley hideaways. Staying right in the old quarters means waking up steps from traditional plazas and local coffee spots, while heading into the surrounding countryside trades town life for sweeping views across the volcanic ridges and banana plantations.
The options here skew heavily toward independent character rather than standardized corporate stays. On the accessible side, you will find century-old Canarian townhouses converted into minimalist guesthouses, often built around traditional open-air stone courtyards. For a bigger splurge, look for boutique rural estates or design-led heritage homes that pair historic architecture with modern rooftop terraces. It is a slower, much more authentic way to experience Gran Canaria, far away from the neon signs of the coast.
