A journey through seven of the best viewpoints on the island.
Gran Canaria is full of amazing places. There are fairy tale beaches, gorgeous fishing villages, buildings of architectural significance, caves, mountains, and rugged trails. This makes it difficult to rank the best points of attractions. However, no tourist can come to Gran Canaria without visiting the network of incredible viewpoints spread throughout the island. Instagrammers love birds eye views of places as beautiful as Gran Canaria.
Mirador del Balcón
In Spanish, “Mirador del Balcón” means “Balcony View” and this name is appropriate. Standing at this viewpoint, the whole of Gran Canaria seems like your private garden. Visible from this vantage point is the “cola de dragón”, or “the dragon’s tail”, a succession of coastal cliffs whose figure is reminiscent of the hindmost part of a mythological creature. The road to the viewpoint is a trip in itself with much to see of the wild Canarian landscape on either side of the road.
Mirador Degollada de Becerra
From this vantage point, which is located on the site of an ancient volcano in the centre of Gran Canaria, visitors can enjoy views of the Tejeda basin. Rugged rocks slip off into the distance and make a nice colour contrast with the blue Canarian sky.
Mirador del Roque Nublo
Roque Nublo, a volcanic monolith 80 metres in height, is one of the symbols of Gran Canaria. It is a great place to visit for travellers who want to be amazed. The landscape around the large rock formation is covered in pines and other species of trees. This part of Gran Canaria has been designated as a biosphere reserve, and local Canarian people appreciate the simple beauty of the area as well as tourists.
Mirador del Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve
This vantage point is close to the highest point of Gran Canaria. A peak which rises to almost 2000 metres in altitude. On a clear day (which is practically every day on the Canary Islands) ravines, lush vegetation, and volcanic terrain break up the landscape. At this viewpoint the ability to look far into the distance invites quiet contemplation. The area is easily accessed by car.
Mirador de Unamuno
The Canary Islands is very proud of its connection with Miguel de Unamuno, a Spanish writer and humanitarian. Unamuno stayed in Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria, and the path of Unamuno was opened in Gran Canaria to honour these visits. The path contains a statue by Manolo González which depicts the writer quietly contemplating the Artenara scenery. “The spectacle is imposing. The crater has black walls with little summits that look like the turrets of a fortification. It is Dantesque,” said Unamuno in reference to the landscape.
Mirador El Guriete
The Ansite fortresses in Barranco de Tirajana are well worth a visit. They date back to the conquest of Gran Canaria and are positioned with an incredible view of Gran Canaria. Dark volcanic rocks mixes with green palm groves. The vantage point is located a few minutes by car from the town of Santa Lucía de Tirajana. For the more athletic, it can also be reached by bike or on foot.
Mirador de Bandama
The Bandama peak and crater are two natural treasures. From the viewpoint an undulating Canarian landscape spreads out with greens, blues and blacks. With the ocean visible in the distance, this beautiful vantage point is a great place to rediscover the spirit.
