The best viewpoints in Gran Canaria

If you want to enjoy nature and discover the hidden corners of Gran Canaria, we invite you to take a tour around some of the best viewpoints in the island. Through them, you’ll have access to unique and incredible landscapes and you’ll be able to fully appreciate and take in the great beauty of this island.

Which viewpoints will you find in Gran Canaria?

Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve viewpoint

Located in the centre of the island, the Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve viewpoint stands on top of the mountain Morro de la Agujerada. It’s the highest point in Gran Canaria, at 1,956 metres above sea level. The name “Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve” (Peak of the snow ponds) refers to the three nearby wells that were built in the 17th century to store the snow that fell during the winter. The view extends from the Tamadaba Massif (Northeast) to the Amurga Massif (Southeast). You’ll be able to gaze upon different geographical wonders such as the Roque Nublo, Roque Bentayga, Llanos de la Pez or the Calderas de Tejeda or Tirajana, and even Mount Teide. An evening visit is perfect to watch the gorgeous sunset and discover the charms of this place, which was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You can easily get here by car or bus and stop at the top of the peak of Las Nieves.

El Balcon viewpoint

El Balcon -the Balcony- viewpoint is located on the road that connects the municipality of Agaete with the Aldea de San Nicolás (GC-200). This viewpoint is absolutely breathtaking as it hangs over the sea at the top of a steep cliff, you just can’t miss it if you come to visit Gran Canaria. Once you arrive, you’ll find different information panels and the stairs that will lead you to the spectacular views of coastal cliffs and their zigzagging peaks, commonly known as the “Dragon’s tail”, because of their strong resemblance to this mythological creature. You’ll also enjoy front-row seats to the La Arena ravine, the stunning valley of the Aldea de San Nicolás or the Almagro mountain. If you love nature and the smell of the sea, this is the perfect place to make a stop during your trip around the island.

Unamuno’s viewpoint

In 1910, the Spanish writer and philosopher, Miguel de Unamuno, lived in Gran Canaria for a month. During his visit, he spent time with other intellectuals of his time and discovered the stunning landscapes of this island. It was on a natural balcony in Artenara, in front of the volcanic basin of Tejeda, when he uttered the following words, among others: “a tremendous upset of the innards of the earth; it all seems like a petrified storm, but a storm of fire and lava rather than water.” Some decades later, in 1999, the municipality of Artenara built this viewpoint to commemorate his visit to the island and to honour this famous writer, member of the group “Generation of ‘98”. The so-called Balcón de Unamuno, Unamuno’s balcony, rises 1,230 metres above sea level and features a statue of the artist looking over the island. The perfect opportunity to walk the same path that Unamuno himself travelled during his visit more than a century ago.

Roque Nublo viewpoint

Located in the municipality of Tejeda, the Roque Nublo viewpoint has become one of the most emblematic natural spaces in Gran Canaria. A place of pilgrimage for both islanders and visitors, this 80-metre-high volcanic rock is the second highest point on the island, standing at 1,813 metres above sea level. An ancient place of worship for the indigenous peoples, it was declared a Protected Natural Space in 1987 and a Rural Park a few years later, in 1994. The trail to the Roque Nublo starts at the main road and continues 1.5 kilometres to the surrounding areas of this viewpoint. From this spot, you’ll be able to enjoy the spectacular views, a landscape made up of clouds, the Atlantic Ocean and the neighbouring island of Tenerife. It also offers breathtaking views of the Caldera de Tejeda, Llanos de la Pez and Pozo de las Nieves. A scenery of such beauty that you won’t be able to put your camera away, believe us.

Pinos de Gáldar viewpoint

The Pinos de Gáldar viewpoint is located in the north of the island, in the Caldera de los Pinos, at 1,350 metres above sea level. It is the home of centenary Canarian pine trees to which it owes its name. This spot can be reached from Fontanales, in the municipality of Moya, taking the road GC 70, in the direction of Cruz de Tejeda. Just above the Pinos de Gáldar stands the natural monument of Montañón Negro, one of the last active volcanoes of the island. Both the Caldera de los Pinos and Montañón Negro are considered points of geological interest. If you wish to explore and take in the sights of the north of Gran Canaria, don’t miss out on this impressive viewpoint, it’s an absolute must see for nature lovers.

Don’t think twice, and come along to enjoy these spectacular viewpoints. The views they provide of Gran Canaria will stay with your forever.

Photos: Patronato de Turismo de Gran Canaria and H. Zell.

Categories: Canaries, Gran Canaria