Did you know that Gran Canaria receives approximately 4 million tourists every year? And usually all of them visit the city of Las Palmas as well as the coastal town Maspalomas and the sun-soaked beach Playa del Inglés.
Although there is nothing wrong with visiting the most famous places of the island, some of us are looking for a more off the beaten path experience. And Gran Canaria is also home to a number of lesser-known, yet equally breathtaking spots that showcase its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural depth.
For those of you willing to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions, Gran Canaria offers a variety of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll uncover 10 hidden spots in Gran Canaria that will allow you to experience the island like a local.
| Hidden Gem | Highlights | Best Time to Visit |
| Barranco de Guayadeque | Ancient cave houses and a stunning ravine | Early morning for serenity |
| Roque Bentayga | Sacred Guanche site with hiking trails | Year-round, best in spring |
| Pico de las Nieves | Island’s highest peak with panoramic views | Winter or early spring |
| Cenobio de Valerón | Archaeological cave fortress with impress architecture | All year round |
| La Fortaleza de Ansite | Historical landmark with lush nature and beautiful hiking trails | Spring and autumn |
| Tamadaba Natural Park | Pine forests and coastal views, perfect for hiking | Spring and autumn |
| Barranco de Azuaje | Flourishing gorge with hiking trails and waterfalls | Spring and autumn |
| El Bufadero de La Garita | Spectacular blowhole between volcanic cavities | Flood season |
| Charco Azul | Hidden lagoon perfect for swimming in the ocean | Summer |
| Fataga | Historic village in the Valley of a Thousand Palms | All year round |
Table of Contents
#1 Barranco de Guayadeque: A Journey Through Time
The first one of the secret places to see in Gran Canaria is Barranco de Guayadeque. This is a breathtaking gorge that impresses with its lush vegetation and ancient cave dwellings. The indigenous people of the Canary Islands, the Guanches, once lived here. Today you can visit the caves, some of which are used as restaurants and museums.
- Activities: Visiting the cave dwellings, hiking, savoring traditional Canarian cuisine in cave restaurants.
- Best time to visit: All year round, ideal in the spring months when the vegetation is at its greenest.
- Why visit: Historical importance and unique landscape.
#2 Roque Bentayga: Sacred Mountain of the Ancient Canarians
If you are looking for secret escapes in Gran Canaria this is your place to be. The Roque Bentayga is an impressive rock monolith in the center of the island and served as a religious center for the ancient Canarians. On a hike up to Roque Bentayga, you can not only enjoy the fantastic panorama, but also learn more about the spiritual significance of the place.
- Activities: Hikes, explore historical sites, enjoy the view.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild.
- Why visit: Breathtaking views and cultural significance.
#3 Pico de las Nieves: The Island’s Highest Peak
Next on our list of hidden places off the beaten track in Gran Canaria is Pico de las Nieves. At 1,949 meters, it is the highest point on Gran Canaria and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and the famous Roque Nublo. On clear days, you can even see the neighboring island of Tenerife and Mount Teide.
- Activities: Hiking, photography, picnics.
- Best time to visit: Spring and summer, when the weather is clear.
- Why visit: Highest point on the island with fantastic views.
#4 Cenobio de Valerón: Gran Canaria’s Cave Fortress
Cenobio de Valerón is a large cave fortress carved out of volcanic rock, which was used by the Guanches as a granary. The more than 300 cave chambers bear witness to the sophisticated construction methods of the ancient Canarians.
- Activities: Explore the archaeological site, guided tours.
- Best time to visit: All year round, especially enjoyable in the spring months.
- Why visit: Unique historical site of the indigenous people.
#5 La Fortaleza de Ansite: Historical Landmark with Scenic Views
Number 5 on the list of things to do in Gran Canaria is an archeological masterpiece. The Fortaleza de Ansite played an important role in the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands. Today it is a tranquil place with a fascinating history and wonderful views over the ravines of Gran Canaria.
- Activities: Hikes, discover history, enjoy the views.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild.
- Why visit: Combination of history and breathtaking scenery.
#6 Tamadaba Natural Park: The Ultimate Nature Escape
When it comes to secret spots in Gran Canaria, this park must be on your travel list. The Tamadaba Nature Park in the north-west of the island is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Here you will find dense pine forests, steep cliffs and some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Gran Canaria.
- Activities: Hiking, climbing, nature watching.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when temperatures are pleasant.
- Why visit: Unspoilt nature and breathtaking hiking trails.
#7 Barranco de Azuaje: Lush Nature in the North
Talking about secrets, Barranco de Azuaje is one of Gran Canarias many secrets that you can discover without mass tourism destroying your trip. The Barranco de Azuaje is one of the greenest and most unspoilt gorges on Gran Canaria. Nature lovers will find lush vegetation, natural springs and waterfalls here. It is the perfect place for a peaceful hike or a picnic.
- Activities: Hiking, nature photography, picnics.
- Best time to visit: Spring and winter, when the vegetation is at its lushest.
- Why visit: Lush nature and tranquil atmosphere off the beaten track.
#8 El Bufadero de La Garita: A Natural Wonder
El Bufadero de La Garita is an impressive natural phenomenon on the east coast of Gran Canaria. Volcanic activity has created a blowhole where the waves of the sea are pushed through the rock and create impressive splashes of water. It is truly stunning how nature can form such bizarre and incredible landmarks.
- Activities: Observing natural wonders, photography.
- Best time to visit: At high tide, when the waves are at their strongest.
- Why visit: A fascinating natural phenomenon that few people know about.
#9 Charco Azul: Hidden Lagoon for the Adventurous
Charco Azul is a must do in Gran Canaria and here is why. It is a hidden, crystal-clear natural pool located in the mountains of the Barranco de Agaete. While Agaete is known for its natural pools, there is a more quiet and less touristy spot just around the corner.
Ok, I will be honest. Getting there is adventurous and requires a bit of a hike. That is probably why not many people go there. But the beauty of the lagoon is well worth the effort.
- Activities: Swimming, relaxing, enjoying nature.
- Best time to visit: Summer, when the water is warm.
- Why visit: A secluded, picturesque natural pool for brave explorers.
#10 Fataga: The Valley of a Thousand Palms
Last but not least the picturesque village of Fataga is located in a valley full of palm trees and offers an idyllic setting with traditional architecture and a tranquil atmosphere. The village is known for its cobbled streets, charming houses and surrounding palm groves. So it is the perfect place to calm down and enjoy a more traditional side of the island.
- Activities: Village tour, hiking, tasting traditional Canarian food.
- Best time to visit: All year round.
- Why visit: An idyllic, authentic experience in the heart of the island.
Whether you are more of the adventurous type of traveler or someone who knows how to enjoy life on the quiet, Gran Canaria has something for everyone. These hidden gems we just showed you offer unique experiences off the beaten track. From historical sites to impressive natural wonders – Gran Canaria is full of places to discover!
Have you been to the Canary Islands or Gran Canaria in particular? Or do you know any other hidden gems there? Let us know in the comments below.
