Rooftop Adventures | GRAN CANARIA
Cities & Towns
Gorgeous fishing town surrounded by a breathtaking landscape. Famous for its natural pools and crystal clear waters by the stone pier. Usually windy. Perfect for having lunch
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Agaete
Gorgeous fishing town surrounded by a breathtaking landscape. Famous for its natural pools and crystal clear waters by the stone pier. Usually windy. Perfect for having lunch
Tejeda, in the central highlands of Gran Canaria, is an almond town; its famous, traditional desserts all contain this healthy nut. In the shade of Roque Nublo and surrounded by valleys, the town is tranquil and charming and the perfect place for a rural retreat far from bustle and stress. Let the beauty of the mountains and the natural beauty of the area soothe your troubles away.
206 personas locales recomiendan
Tejeda
Tejeda, in the central highlands of Gran Canaria, is an almond town; its famous, traditional desserts all contain this healthy nut. In the shade of Roque Nublo and surrounded by valleys, the town is tranquil and charming and the perfect place for a rural retreat far from bustle and stress. Let the beauty of the mountains and the natural beauty of the area soothe your troubles away.
The natural surroundings of the municipality are exceptional and there is a range of routes and paths, along which the scenic beauty of the west of Gran Canaria can be appreciated. Ninety per cent of the area is protected. The most significant beaches are the Playa de la Aldea, the most frequented as it is situated in the town itself, the beaches of Tasarte and Tasartico and most especially the beaches of Güi-Güi, which are of black sand and whose surroundings are of great natural beauty. Hiking to Gui Gui can be challenging so gear up for a full day of walking.
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La Aldea de San Nicolas de Tolentino
The natural surroundings of the municipality are exceptional and there is a range of routes and paths, along which the scenic beauty of the west of Gran Canaria can be appreciated. Ninety per cent of the area is protected. The most significant beaches are the Playa de la Aldea, the most frequented as it is situated in the town itself, the beaches of Tasarte and Tasartico and most especially the beaches of Güi-Güi, which are of black sand and whose surroundings are of great natural beauty. Hiking to Gui Gui can be challenging so gear up for a full day of walking.
Teror is one of the oldest towns in Gran Canaria. Proposed activity: Hike in Barranco de Teror, then walk the Teror market (only on Sundays). Eat corn on the cob, potato stick, sweet potato carrot bread, and the cinnamon rolls with Nutella 🤤. You can then head to Agaete (see Agaete)
193 personas locales recomiendan
Teror
18 C. BuenavistaTeror is one of the oldest towns in Gran Canaria. Proposed activity: Hike in Barranco de Teror, then walk the Teror market (only on Sundays). Eat corn on the cob, potato stick, sweet potato carrot bread, and the cinnamon rolls with Nutella 🤤. You can then head to Agaete (see Agaete)
Firgas, in northern Gran Canaria, is a small town full of charm. Its history has long been connected to water and today an artificial waterfall flows down the steps right in the centre of its old town, tumbling 30 metres down Paseo de Gran Canaria street.
We highly recommend the circular hike to Balneario de Azuaje, starting in Firgas (see Balneario de Azuaje).
Firgas’ water mill, the oldest in the Canary Islands still in use, has been renovated and is open to visitors. After a walk through Firgas’ charming streets, many decorated with original glazed tiles, there are plenty of grill restaurants ready to cook you a meal over charcoal.
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Firgas
Firgas, in northern Gran Canaria, is a small town full of charm. Its history has long been connected to water and today an artificial waterfall flows down the steps right in the centre of its old town, tumbling 30 metres down Paseo de Gran Canaria street.
We highly recommend the circular hike to Balneario de Azuaje, starting in Firgas (see Balneario de Azuaje).
Firgas’ water mill, the oldest in the Canary Islands still in use, has been renovated and is open to visitors. After a walk through Firgas’ charming streets, many decorated with original glazed tiles, there are plenty of grill restaurants ready to cook you a meal over charcoal.
Artenara is Gran Canaria’s highest village and sits on a giant natural balcony surrounded by rugged ridges and valleys
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Artenara
11 C. Cam. de La CillaArtenara is Gran Canaria’s highest village and sits on a giant natural balcony surrounded by rugged ridges and valleys
Small town carved into the cliff located in the eastern coast of Gran Canaria, very close to the airport. One of the best spots to go snorkeling and scuba diving due to the special protection zones and attractive sea beds
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Tufia
Small town carved into the cliff located in the eastern coast of Gran Canaria, very close to the airport. One of the best spots to go snorkeling and scuba diving due to the special protection zones and attractive sea beds
Pretty, welcoming village in south Gran Canaria that still maintains its local feel. Famous for its flowery gardens and bridged canals
26 personas locales recomiendan
La Playa de Mogán
Pretty, welcoming village in south Gran Canaria that still maintains its local feel. Famous for its flowery gardens and bridged canals
Pozo Izquierdo is located in southeast Gran Canaria. It is well-known for its reliable wind and waves throughout the year and part of the PWA (world windsurfing championship). If you ever considered trying windsurfing stop by Pozowinds, the local windsurfing store to get the best deals. And if you don't feel like trying but want to watch the pros, head to El Viento, local bar with some great views of the beach
48 personas locales recomiendan
Pozo Izquierdo
Pozo Izquierdo is located in southeast Gran Canaria. It is well-known for its reliable wind and waves throughout the year and part of the PWA (world windsurfing championship). If you ever considered trying windsurfing stop by Pozowinds, the local windsurfing store to get the best deals. And if you don't feel like trying but want to watch the pros, head to El Viento, local bar with some great views of the beach
Do not miss
During the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, water flowing through this area was channelled by rocks for a spa located at the ravine’s entrance. The spa was so popular it even hosted newlyweds for their honeymoon. Only the ruins remain now, but the circular trail starting in Firgas is one of the best you will find in Gran Canaria. Total distance is 8,5km and difficulty is moderate, you will absolutely need hiking shoes. Be sure to ask us for advice if you like this plan!
Balneario Azuaje
During the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, water flowing through this area was channelled by rocks for a spa located at the ravine’s entrance. The spa was so popular it even hosted newlyweds for their honeymoon. Only the ruins remain now, but the circular trail starting in Firgas is one of the best you will find in Gran Canaria. Total distance is 8,5km and difficulty is moderate, you will absolutely need hiking shoes. Be sure to ask us for advice if you like this plan!
Located in the central municipality of Tejeda, on the island of Gran Canaria, Roque Nublo is considered one of the biggest natural crags in the world. Several roads from the north and the west of Gran Canaria provide access to the parks viewpoints, picnic sites and campsites
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Roque Nublo
Located in the central municipality of Tejeda, on the island of Gran Canaria, Roque Nublo is considered one of the biggest natural crags in the world. Several roads from the north and the west of Gran Canaria provide access to the parks viewpoints, picnic sites and campsites
The Maspalomas Dune system is a unique wild place in the Canary Islands due to its beauty and range of ecosystems. Its 400 hectares, protected by the Canarian government as a Nature Reserve of special value, include a fantastic beach, a dynamic sand dune system, palm grove and a brackish lagoon. This mix of desert and oasis is at the southern tip of Gran Canaria and is surrounded by the famous Maspalomas resort. Pro tip: try to park as close to Riu Palace as possible to enter the dunes from the hotel
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Reserva Natural de las Dunas de Maspalomas
The Maspalomas Dune system is a unique wild place in the Canary Islands due to its beauty and range of ecosystems. Its 400 hectares, protected by the Canarian government as a Nature Reserve of special value, include a fantastic beach, a dynamic sand dune system, palm grove and a brackish lagoon. This mix of desert and oasis is at the southern tip of Gran Canaria and is surrounded by the famous Maspalomas resort. Pro tip: try to park as close to Riu Palace as possible to enter the dunes from the hotel
The northern coast of Gran Canaria is full of natural pools, this is just one of them. Some others are located at Bañaderos, Galdar or Agaete
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Roque prieto pools
The northern coast of Gran Canaria is full of natural pools, this is just one of them. Some others are located at Bañaderos, Galdar or Agaete
Hotel with an infinity pool to watch the best sunset views in Gran Canaria. You can park by the hotel and enjoy the views on your way back from Tejeda
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Parador
Hotel with an infinity pool to watch the best sunset views in Gran Canaria. You can park by the hotel and enjoy the views on your way back from Tejeda
Biosphere Reserve with many hiking trails and camping sites
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Tamadaba Natural Park
Biosphere Reserve with many hiking trails and camping sites
Iconic. Walk through Meloneras while watching surfers on one side and 5 star hotels on the other. End up at the lighthouse and come back for a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants like Cafe Del Mar, where you can enjoy shows on Saturdays.
Paseo de las Meloneras
Paseo de las MelonerasIconic. Walk through Meloneras while watching surfers on one side and 5 star hotels on the other. End up at the lighthouse and come back for a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants like Cafe Del Mar, where you can enjoy shows on Saturdays.
Beautiful plaza in the old town of Las Palmas surrounded by historical buildings. The neighborhood is called Vegueta and gets very lively on Thursday evenings, when all the bars change the menu to just different types of tapas and beers
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Plaza de Santa Ana
Plaza Santa AnaBeautiful plaza in the old town of Las Palmas surrounded by historical buildings. The neighborhood is called Vegueta and gets very lively on Thursday evenings, when all the bars change the menu to just different types of tapas and beers
Caribbean beach with free parking and cool beach club. Usually packed in summer/ weekends
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Estación Playa de Amadores
Caribbean beach with free parking and cool beach club. Usually packed in summer/ weekends
Huge resort with its own marina, caribbean beach, hotel and restaurants. One of the best beach clubs in the island, Maroa, is here as well.
Access is free and parking is free or very cheap depending on the season
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Anfi Del Mar
s/n Barranco de la VergaHuge resort with its own marina, caribbean beach, hotel and restaurants. One of the best beach clubs in the island, Maroa, is here as well.
Access is free and parking is free or very cheap depending on the season
Las Canteras is one of the best urban beaches in Europe. Three kilometres of fine golden sand and calm waters, thanks to the protection provided by the natural breakwater of volcanic origin, known as ‘La Barra’ (the bar). Parallel to the coast is a lively avenue crowded with shops, restaurants, cafés, renowned ice-cream parlours and lots of other establishments. Towards the end of the beach you will find a surfing spot with many many surf schools and rentals
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Playa de Las Canteras
Las Canteras is one of the best urban beaches in Europe. Three kilometres of fine golden sand and calm waters, thanks to the protection provided by the natural breakwater of volcanic origin, known as ‘La Barra’ (the bar). Parallel to the coast is a lively avenue crowded with shops, restaurants, cafés, renowned ice-cream parlours and lots of other establishments. Towards the end of the beach you will find a surfing spot with many many surf schools and rentals
Barranco de Guayadeque is a beautiful ravine-valley famous for its cave houses and restaurants carved in the volcanic stone. You can eat at one the restaurants inside an actual cave
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Montaña De Las Tierras
Barranco de Guayadeque is a beautiful ravine-valley famous for its cave houses and restaurants carved in the volcanic stone. You can eat at one the restaurants inside an actual cave
Beautiful spot just a 15 min walk from the car. Just go for the picture :)
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Barranco de Las Vacas
Beautiful spot just a 15 min walk from the car. Just go for the picture :)
To appreciate the essence of a place and soak up its atmosphere there is nothing better than getting to the highest point. In Gran Canaria this is the Pico de las Nieves lookout point right in the centre of the island. At 1,949 metres above sea level the uninterrupted views out over the Unesco Biosphere Reserve, with its innumerable deep valleys and jagged ridges shrouded with vegetation and crowned with spectacular rocks.
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Pico de las Nieves
To appreciate the essence of a place and soak up its atmosphere there is nothing better than getting to the highest point. In Gran Canaria this is the Pico de las Nieves lookout point right in the centre of the island. At 1,949 metres above sea level the uninterrupted views out over the Unesco Biosphere Reserve, with its innumerable deep valleys and jagged ridges shrouded with vegetation and crowned with spectacular rocks.
This spectacular viewpoint is in the far west of Gran Canaria and hangs over the sea at the top of a steep cliiff edge with spectacular views out over the Atlantic Ocean. From the viewpoint you get a clear view of a zigzag wall of sea cliffs called the “Dragon’s Tail”. Turning back to look at the island you see the La Arena Valley and the wide, green La Aldea de San Nicolás
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Mirador del Balcón
This spectacular viewpoint is in the far west of Gran Canaria and hangs over the sea at the top of a steep cliiff edge with spectacular views out over the Atlantic Ocean. From the viewpoint you get a clear view of a zigzag wall of sea cliffs called the “Dragon’s Tail”. Turning back to look at the island you see the La Arena Valley and the wide, green La Aldea de San Nicolás
The Cueva Pintada archaeological park is in Galdar in north Gran Canaria and centres around a settlement built by the areas pre-hispanic inhabitants. It’s a must see for anyone interested in the island’s history as visitors walk on boardwalks through the entire village and can enter the painted cave to see the famous geometric wall paintings. This is a striking opportunity to walk amongst genuine archaeological discoveries.
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Museo y Parque Arqueológico Cueva Pintada
2 C. AudienciaThe Cueva Pintada archaeological park is in Galdar in north Gran Canaria and centres around a settlement built by the areas pre-hispanic inhabitants. It’s a must see for anyone interested in the island’s history as visitors walk on boardwalks through the entire village and can enter the painted cave to see the famous geometric wall paintings. This is a striking opportunity to walk amongst genuine archaeological discoveries.
Fuente de los Azulejos is an unusual rock formation on the island of Gran Canaria. The name literally means "fountain of tiles", because of the colour of the rocks resembling Spanish tiles
Fuente de los Azulejos
Fuente de los Azulejos is an unusual rock formation on the island of Gran Canaria. The name literally means "fountain of tiles", because of the colour of the rocks resembling Spanish tiles
Restaurants & Clubs
Nativo Las palmas
48 Carretera la CostaBiocrepería RiscoCaido
13 Av. Matías VegaCafé del Mar Meloneras
3D Pl. del FaroCosta Italy
4A P.º Costa CanariaMogan Mall
9 Av. Tomás Roca Bosch
Restaurante Terraza El Viento
2 Avenida Punta Tenefé
450Gradi Las Palmas
27 Calle Castillejos
Masebba Cocktail Bar
La Costa Cocktail & Bar
Tipsy Hammock bar
24 P.º Costa CanariaCervecería La Ruta
Holidayworld Maspalomas Center
Avenida Touroperador TuiMaroa Club de Mar
s/n Barranco de la VergaBENITO ROOF Cocktail Bar
s/n Pl. Hurtado de MendozaCamping spots
Park4night should be your main source of camping spots but these are some outstanding places if you don't mind spending some extra money or time
Far away from the main cities and a 5 minute walk from the beach, this place offers paid parking spots at 18€/night
Güigüí
s n GC-204Far away from the main cities and a 5 minute walk from the beach, this place offers paid parking spots at 18€/night
Picnic area in the mountains. Camping is free but a permit is required and needs to be booked in advance
Llanos De La Pez
Picnic area in the mountains. Camping is free but a permit is required and needs to be booked in advance
Picnic area in the mountains. Camping is free but a permit is required and needs to be booked in advance
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Presa de Las Ninas
Picnic area in the mountains. Camping is free but a permit is required and needs to be booked in advance
Consejos para la ciudad
Cómo moverse
Rental car
The provided car (unless stated otherwise) is a Renault Kangoo van.
It runs on diesel. The car must be returned with the same amount of fuel, otherwise refueling fees may apply.
Please follow local driving regulations. Speeding, incorrect parking or any other tickets or fines may be charged through AirBnb even after the stay is completed.
Car insurance is included and covers the car and any occupants, but there is one exception, underside damage.
Since the car is not a 4x4, off- road driving is not permitted.
Any damage to the underside will not be covered by the insurance company.
Costumbres y cultura
Please respect the environment
Rooftop tent camping is an excellent way to connect with nature, so let's keep it that way.
You will be provided with trash bags so all waste can be properly disposed.
No te lo pierdas
Camping 101
Unlike some places like the US, camping in Spain is strictly regulated. This means you cannot set camp everywhere but worry not, we got you covered.
The first thing you should do is download the app park4night where you can check plenty of spots around the island to spend the night, with reviews from other campers.
We also suggest the app maps.me for offline trails. Just download the map beforehand and plan hiking and driving routes while your phone is on airplane mode.
As a rule of thumb, national parks and beaches are usually off-limits, but you can check the app for more info.
Costumbres y cultura
Rooftop tent camping
Having a tent on top of your car makes no difference when it comes to parking regulations, which means you can open the tent and call it a day anywhere you can park.
But the moment you take a piece of furniture outside you are no longer parking but camping, so take that into account when choosing your spots.
No te lo pierdas
About the rooftop tent
Opening and closing the tent is easy but we will show you a few tricks during the welcome briefing.
Last but not least, don't forget the tent is there! The car is around 2,4 meters tall with the tent on so it won't fit into some underground parkings.
Qué empacar
Planning to stay up in the mountains?
Gran Canaria offers the best of both worlds, staying by the beach or up in the mountains is up to you. But if you plan to stay primarily in the mountains we recommend packing accordingly, the mountain top is almost 2000m high.