Gran Canaria Artenera

Discover Artenera: The Mountain Gem of Gran Canaria

Imagine finding yourself in Artenara, the mountain gem nestled high amidst the rugged peaks of Gran Canaria. This isn't just any destination; Artenara is the pinnacle of small-town charm and natural grandeur, the island's highest village, proudly perched at about 1,270 meters above sea level. Here, you'll be ushered into a world that seems frozen in time, offering a tantalizing mix of culture, history, and views that will take your breath away.

As you pull into Artenara, feel free to leave your car behind in one of the many parking areas; the best way to discover the real beauty of this quaint village is on foot. I'd definitely recommend popping by the Tourist Information Office to snag some top tips for making the most of your stay. Trust me, the friendly locals know every nook and cranny of their beloved village and are more than happy to share their knowledge with you.

Your tour might kick off at the Atalaya Viewpoint, where a sweeping view of the surrounding districts awaits you. Most residents live in cave-homes that cling to the landscape—cool sanctuaries in the summer and snug retreats during the colder months. Gaze out from the viewpoint, and you'll be greeted by the verdant pine groves, the expanse of the Tamadaba Natural Park, and even the majestic Mount Teide stretching out in the distance.

Take a leisurely walk down to the village heart, and soon you'll come across the Solanita Viewpoint. Just look at that vista! A sprawling recreation area unfolds before you, including a municipal swimming pool and the New Park, home to a sculpture honoring Canary folklore, meticulously crafted from Tindaya stone.

The adventure continues as you stroll to Plaza de San Matías, the beating heart of the village, where the awe-inspiring Church of San Matías awaits. Inside, you'll find breathtaking artworks by José Arencibia Gil and the rich history seeped into every detail, from the coffered ceilings to the stained glass windows.

Straying a bit from the church, a 400m ascent takes you to the Hermitage of La Cuevita. Your jaws might just drop at the sight of the altar and confessional—all impressively hewn right out of the mountain rock. This sacred spot, dedicated to the Virgin of La Cuevita, becomes a hive of devotion and celebration every last Sunday in August. And just a stone's throw away, the Santiago Aranda House Museum lets you step inside an authentic cave-house, offering a peek into the lives of the island's early inhabitants.

Your journey might lead you back towards the church where the Balcony of Unamuno and the Esquina Viewpoint reveal themselves. Take a moment here to drink in the views of the Caldera de Tejeda, with the iconic Roque Bentayga and Roque Nublo standing like sentinels over this ancient landscape.

Feeling a bit peckish? Head over to the Viewpoint – Restaurant de La Cilla for a bite with a view. If you're up for it, a climb to the summit takes you to the breathtaking sculpture of the Sacred Heart of Jesus—truly a sight to behold.

The adventure in Artenara doesn't end there. The Aboriginal Settlement of Acusa Seca, Risco Caído Interpretation Centre, and several prehistoric caves like Caballero and Los Candiles are all testaments to this region's deep-rooted history. Or, if you're someone who loves to lace up their boots and hit the trails, Tamadaba Natural Park beckons with its wealth of paths winding through the natural splendor of Gran Canaria.

Artenara is more than a place—it's an experience waiting to be savored. It's where culture whispers to you from the stone walls, where the past lives in harmony with the present, and where the beauty of Gran Canaria soars to its greatest heights. So whether you're here for an afternoon or planning a longer, soul-nourishing escape, Artenara speaks to the wanderer in us all, promising memories as enduring as its ancient peaks. Come, be part of the magic.