From Las Palmas: Full-Day Tour of the North

Explore the Best of Northern Gran Canaria from Las Palmas

The Full-Day Tour of the North from Las Palmas offers a well-rounded glimpse into the diverse landscapes and cultural highlights of northern Gran Canaria. For $52 per person, this 7.5-hour journey combines scenic views, historic architecture, local agriculture, and tasty tastings, making it an appealing choice for travelers eager to experience the island beyond its beaches. The tour departs conveniently from Las Palmas, with pickup and drop-off included, and features a comfortable bus or minivan with a live guide who speaks both Spanish and English.

While the tour is packed with points of interest, it also offers a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors. The guided visits include scenic stops, culinary experiences, and cultural insights that make this full-day experience both informative and enjoyable. The only notable limitation is that minors under 6 years old are not permitted, so families with very young children should plan accordingly.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $52 per person for a full 7.5-hour tour
• Highlights: Includes scenic viewpoints, a coffee plantation, wine and cheese tastings, and visits to historic towns
• Departure: From Las Palmas with pickup and drop-off included
• Guide: Knowledgeable Spanish and English-speaking tour leader
• Not suitable for: Young children under 6 years old
• Includes: Coffee tasting and transportation; optional wine and cheese tasting for 7.50 euros

Discovering the Village of Arucas and the Neo-Gothic Church

The tour kicks off in the charming town of Arucas, renowned for its neo-Gothic church of St. John. This impressive church dominates the skyline and provides a fascinating glimpse into local architecture. Your guide explains the church’s history and significance, making this stop both visually and culturally enriching.

Walking into Arucas, you can also explore its local streets and learn about the town’s historic connection to banana cultivation. The town’s banana fields are a lush sight, and the guide shares insights into the island’s agricultural exports. This stop is perfect for those interested in local traditions and historic architecture.

Panoramic Views at Port of Las Nieves in Agaete

Next, the tour takes you to the Port of Las Nieves in Agaete, where panoramic views of the coastline unfold. Here, travelers enjoy photo opportunities of the cliffs and ocean. This stop is ideal for capturing memories and appreciating Gran Canaria’s rugged beauty.

The Port of Las Nieves also offers vistas of the High Cliff, which is the tallest in Europe. The cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, and the guide points out the geological features, making it a favorite for photo enthusiasts.

Visiting the Unique Agaete Coffee Plantation

One of the tour’s most distinctive stops is the visit to the Agaete Coffee plantation. Known as Arabyca Typica, this plantation is Europe’s only coffee-growing field, making it a rare experience. Travelers learn how coffee is cultivated in this unique environment and have the chance to taste the coffee directly from the source.

The coffee tasting is a highlight, especially considering the specialty status of Agaete’s coffee. The guide shares details about the plantation’s history and the growing process, offering insight into a crop that’s unusual for Europe.

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Relaxing Wine and Cheese Tasting in the West

In the west of the island, a stop at a local vineyard offers the opportunity to sample regional wines and cheeses. For 7.50 euros, visitors can enjoy a tasting session that includes three cups of wine, local cheese, and small appetizers. The vineyard is in a picturesque location, providing a serene setting for this culinary break.

This tasting is highly praised for showcasing the local wine and cheese varieties, with knowledgeable staff explaining the production and flavor profiles. It’s an ideal way to indulge in local flavors and learn about Gran Canaria’s wine-making traditions.

Exploring the Valley of Berrazales and its Natural Beauty

The Valley of Berrazales offers a breathtaking landscape filled with green terraces and verdant valleys. This picturesque valley captivates visitors with its lush scenery, and the guide highlights its agricultural importance. It’s a peaceful spot that allows for photo opportunities and a moment of quiet reflection amidst nature.

The beauty of the valley makes it clear why the area is valued for its vegetation and farming. The guide shares stories about the local crops and the history tied to this fertile region.

Lunch in the Fishing Village of Puerto de las Nieves

The tour’s lunch stop is in Puerto de las Nieves, a small fishing village renowned for its fresh seafood. This port town offers stunning views of the high cliffs and the ocean, creating a scenic backdrop as you enjoy your meal.

Visitors can choose to purchase lunch locally, with options to sample seafood dishes or local specialties. The view from the port over the high cliff makes this a memorable dining experience, combining culinary delights with spectacular scenery.

Discovering the Ceramic Bench Street in Firgas

Famous for its Andalusian ceramic benches, Firgas offers a colorful and artistic stop. The ceramic benches are decorated with vivid tiles, illustrating local motifs and traditions. The guide explains the history of this artistic feature, which has become a local landmark.

This stop provides a chance for great photos and a stroll through a picturesque town. It’s a brief but memorable addition to the tour that highlights Gran Canaria’s craftsmanship.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour is led by an official guide who speaks Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and insights throughout the day. Transportation is in a comfortable bus or minivan, facilitating easy travel between stops.

The group size tends to be small, allowing for a more personalized experience. The pickup and drop-off are included in the price, making logistics simple for travelers staying in Las Palmas.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day exploration suits those interested in cultural sites, scenic views, and local food experiences. The culinary tastings and historic towns appeal to travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and gastronomy. It’s especially fitting for adults and families with older children who can handle the 7.5-hour schedule and walking at stops.

The limited physical requirements make it accessible for most, but not suitable for those with mobility challenges or very young children under 6 years.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day North Tour

This Gran Canaria tour offers a comprehensive look at the island’s northern treasures. The scenic viewpoints, historic architecture, and local tastings create a well-balanced experience. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport contribute to its high 4.7-star rating from 160 reviews.

For travelers seeking to maximize their time and see diverse landscapes and towns in a single day, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments. The optional wine and cheese tasting adds an extra touch of culinary delight, while the scenic stops satisfy photo enthusiasts.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice for those wanting an organized, enriching day out of Las Palmas, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy local flavors, sights, and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old are not permitted on this tour. It is best suited for older children and adults who can handle a full 7.5-hour schedule.

Are meals included in the price?
Lunch is not included but can be purchased during the stop in Puerto de las Nieves. The wine and cheese tasting at the vineyard is optional for 7.50 euros.

What languages are available?
The tour guide speaks Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long is the day and what are the main stops?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including stops at Arucas, Agaete, Agaete Coffee plantation, Berrazales Valley, and Puerto de las Nieves, along with the ceramic benches street in Firgas.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip uses bus or minivan that is described as very comfortable and suitable for a day trip of this length.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

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