Photo essay: Gran Canaria Nature and Landscapes

Back are those days when Canary islands would be just seen as the perfect sun vacation on a budget. Last July, we could enjoy Gran Canaria for the first time and we can tell you there is a lot more than a crowded, sunny and touristy South.

Maspalomas dunes, before heading North

Opposite to what we could think, those are not cactuses..

Neither these!

Jose on top of Sheraton Salobre’s Sunset pool

Big efforts have been made in a sustainable and wise direction for making other kind of tourism possible. When you choose your accommodation make sure you think about where on the Islands best suits your style and keep in mind that there is a green, kind and nature side of the island once you head North that you should not miss in your next visit to the islands: A progressive, smooth change of the landscapes brings up a whole new world of colorful nature.

Selfie during a stop on our way North with our friends over at Gran Canaria Natural, Alex and Maria 🙂

Is this finally a cactus? We couldn’t tell.

More sunset goodness. Can’t express with words how GORGEOUS that pool was.

Is it clear enough where you can find water or should we highlight it more?

After indulging ourselves in the most known part of the island, filled with high-end spas and luxury hotels, the first two days; the second part of our road trip took us North. Breathtaking views of steep canyons and exotic nature made us stop every twenty minutes to picture all that beauty.

When we finally made it to our first boutique hotel in the North, it was already getting dark. And here is when the true magic happened. The clearest, brightest and astonishing sky dome was above us. No light pollution or distraction of any kind settled all the conditions for perfect night photography we’ve been long time looking for. Milky way was so perfectly defined that brought us memories from our 2009 Morocco trip to the desert: one of the best places on earth for astronomy lovers.

Gran Canaria sky dome as seen from our hotel courtyard in the North part of the island

The following morning, after experiencing the only and one european coffee you can find in Gran Canaria, we got ready for an awakening hike through the wilderness in the Aruca valley. 3 exciting hours that, contrary to our guide’s advice, weren’t for beginners and one trail to get closer to nature. We loved it!

Obsidian rock, Aruca valley

Those were everywhere waiting for a macro perfect moment.

In the afternoon, a scenic route took us to the best viewpoint in the island from where it is possible to admire Roque Nublo, dramatic Gran Canaria valleys and even Teide volcano in Tenerife island, some 20 km away from Gran Canaria.

Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria

Tenerife’s Teide as seen from Gran Canaria island

Our Gran Canaria nature adventure was coming to an end. A local market, two cozy towns and a huge botanical garden were awaiting us for the last day before heading back to Galicia.

This botanical garden once belonged to Aruca’s Countess

Who could have imagined the island could be that green and close to our roots? We’ll be definitely heading back as soon as possible. There is still so much to see! 😉

Have you ever visited Gran Canaria? Leave us a comment with your travel tips!