Cruz de Tejeda

Cruz de Tejeda, at 1,580 metres above sea level, is the true geographical centre of the island and one of its most breathtaking viewpoints. On a clear day, the gaze sweeps across both the northern and southern slopes of Gran Canaria, villages clinging to cliffsides, deep calderas and, on the horizon, the majestic silhouette of Mount Teide on Tenerife. An unmissable stop to understand the unique geography of the archipelago and capture truly memorable photographs.

Roque Nublo

Just 20 minutes by car from Casa Rural Los Pinares stands Roque Nublo, one of the tallest natural monoliths in the world and the ultimate symbol of Gran Canaria. This 80-metre basalt giant rises from the landscape like a thousand-year-old sentinel, visible from much of the island.

⚠️ Please note, February 2025! The Degollada de La Goleta car park (right at the foot of the trail) is now permanently closed to cars. Here is all the up-to-date information if you'd like to come by car 🚗

Where to park?

The car park directly at the trailhead no longer exists as of February 2025; the former Degollada de la Goleta car park, the closest one to the starting point, has been closed to the public. You now need to park in one of these two places:

• Cruz de Los Llanos (the closest and simplest option): 5 km from the trail, at the junction of the GC-600 and GC-150 roads above Ayacata. From there, two options: walk to the trailhead (3.7 km, about 1 hour, a gentle climb through a pine forest) or take the Line 18 shuttle, a 10-minute ride.
• Tejeda centre: a bit further, but convenient if you also want to visit the village.

The shuttle (Line 18 bus)

Line 18 runs a loop with hybrid buses, stopping at Tejeda, Cruz de Tejeda, Degollada de Becerra, Cruz de Los Llanos, Degollada de Goleta (the trailhead), Ayacata, then back to Tejeda.

Booking (free, required during the day)

Since 3 February 2025, the Roque Nublo trail has required a booking during main opening hours, on the site reservasroquenublo.com. Key points:

• The booking is free, and each hiker can request up to five permits (for accompanying people).
• Booking is required from 9am to 5pm.
• Outside these hours (before 9am or after 5pm), access is free, ideal for anyone wanting to see the sunrise or sunset.
• After booking, a QR code arrives by email, scanned at the entrance at Degollada de La Goleta. Maximum 60 people per hour.

The trail

The shortest trail is 1.5 km from the La Goleta car park, with about 150 m of elevation gain, roughly one hour there and back. The hike is fairly steep but easy, and the trail is well marked and defined.

Good to know

• In front of the Degollada de La Goleta car park there is usually a stand selling fresh orange juice, coffee, ice cream and local sandwiches — but it's best to bring water and snacks just in case.
• Suitable clothing (long trousers) is recommended, as some sections are lined with tall vegetation (ticks) — especially on alternative routes.

Pico de las Nieves

For lovers of wide open spaces and vertiginous panoramas, the Pico de las Nieves is an absolute must. Located just 30 minutes from the house, this 1,949-metre summit — the highest point on Gran Canaria — offers a 360° view across the entire island: sheer cliffs, endless pine-covered ridges, enigmatic volcanic cones and, on clear days, the neighbouring islands on the horizon. An experience that truly takes your breath away.

Artenara

Just 35 minutes from the house, Artenara is the highest village on Gran Canaria and one of its most historically rich. Carved into volcanic rock, this cave village captivates with its unique architecture and archaeological remains that reveal the way of life of the ancient Canarians. Do not miss the Hermitage of the Virgen de la Cuevita, a rock sanctuary hewn directly into the cliff face 400 metres from the centre, nor the Archaeological Complex of Acusa, a cluster of cave dwellings declared a Site of Cultural Interest. The village is also home to the Church of San Matías, dating from the 19th century, and several viewpoints with spectacular panoramic views over the Tejeda caldera.

San Mateo — Markets

About 45 minutes from the house, San Mateo is home to one of the liveliest and most authentic farmers' and craft markets on Gran Canaria. Seasonal fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, honey, spices, aromatic herbs and traditional Canarian crafts: a flavourful immersion into local life, far from tourist-oriented markets. A not-to-be-missed weekly event — the perfect opportunity to bring home beautiful souvenirs and taste the true flavours of the island.