Gran Canaria Arucas

Nestled in the northern part of Gran Canaria, the town of Arucas gleams like a treasure chest of architectural wonders, brimming with history and sprinkled with natural beauty. A mere 12 kilometers from the island's capital, Las Palmas, Arucas emerges with its impressive neo-Gothic church, inviting gardens, and a historical center that captivates every passerby.

The heartbeat of Arucas is undoubtedly the Church of San Juan Bautista, a striking landmark made from local slate-hued stone that rises proudly against the skyline. Embarking on its construction in the early 1900s, the town devoted over 70 years to its completion, resulting in a place of worship that doubles as an architectural icon. The church is adorned with precious works of art, including the Recumbent Christ by Manolo Ramos and resplendent French windows—treasures that wait to awe visitors at every turn.

Not far from the church, the journey through Arucas unfolds seamlessly. The shortest of distances will take you from one architectural marvel to the next—the beauty of the town's layout. The cultural center, housed in a 17th-century Canary townhouse, the old Market of Arucas, distinguished council buildings, and artisan shops create an ambiance that is both historic and inviting.

Meandering through the heart of Arucas, the narrow streets and wooden balconies reminiscent of Canarian tradition lead to the Municipal Museum, which holds within its walls the essence of the town's past and its artistic legacy. Don't skip a stroll in the Municipal Park, housing botanical wonders from across the globe, or a visit to the Arucas and Firgas Water Heritage building, an edifice of grand stature and historical significance.

As you venture further, the Arehucas Rum Factory appears as a delightful surprise. Revel in guided tours and the exquisite opportunity to taste some of Europe's finest rums—a time-honored treat that harkens back to 1884 when the distillery first opened its doors.

Like a page turned in a storybook, Arucas continues to enchant with the Labrante Visitors' Interpretive Centre, detailing the life and times of the town's stonemasons. Close by, La Cantera Museum offers a glimpse into the old quarry ways, and visitors can even take home a piece of Arucas' stone craft as a tangible memory of their visit.

Arucas isn't complete without a nod to its title, the "City of Flowers," seen not least in its Marquesina Gardens. Here, amidst a kaleidoscope of over 2,500 species of plants collected from around the world, the essence of the town's verdant heart blooms.

Then, as you wrap up your exploration of the town center, set your sights on the heights of Montaña de Arucas. From this lofty perch, the whole coastal stretch and the woven greenery of the inland lie before you—a panoramic treat for the eyes. If the ocean's call is too enticing to ignore, the coast is just a stone's throw away, offering spots like La Punta de Arucas and Las Salinas del Bufadero. Bask in the sun on the promenade of El Puertillo, snorkel in the Natural Pools of Los Charcones, or simply relax on the Blue Flag beach of El Puertillo. Restaurants dotting the seafront serve up the freshest fish dishes, the perfect way to culminate a day in Arucas.

For visitors keen to absorb the identity of Arucas, the Historic Town Centre is an open invitation to a walkable and vibrant mosaic of cultural richness. With everything within reach, from the unfolding tales of architectural might to the soothing canopy of natural wonders, Arucas offers a touch of the sublime. It is a blend of culture, history, and scenic delight—a vibrant medley of experiences that gracefully comes together to form the architectural jewel of Gran Canaria.