Secret Gran Canaria: Discover a Hidden Side to This Island Paradise

With its sweeping white beaches, crystal clear waters, and subtropical climate, Gran Canaria is well known as a place for holiday makers to relax and unwind. But what if your ideal escape isn’t sun, sea, sand, and a good book? What if exploring, experiencing, and immersing yourself in nature are top of your list?

Then look no further.

Given its popularity, you’d be forgiven for thinking there are no ‘quiet’ parts of the island; no untouched areas of natural beauty, no unexplored trails to find.

In fact, the complete opposite is true: Almost 50% of Gran Canaria is designated as protected natural area and forms part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

As a destination, Gran Canaria is one of the most fulfilling for authentic experiences and outright adventure, all within easy reach of the UK.

A landscape of contrasts

The third largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, and closer to northwest Africa than Spain itself, Gran Canaria is a tapestry of changing landscapes.

The variety of microclimates and breathtaking scenery make the island an ideal destination to explore year-round. Rich in biodiversity, there’s an abundance of plant and wildlife just waiting to be discovered.

Start your day with a walk through the island’s lush laurel forests. Push out across its volcanic ravines and soak up some dramatic views before exploring century-old villages and enjoying their fresh local delicacies. Finish up your evening by cool coastal waters, watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

All this is possible in a single day on Gran Canaria.

With so many ways to experience the island, from relaxing in rural accommodation and enjoying local gastronomy to taking on outdoor challenges and seeing archeological sites, Gran Canaria is a place to connect with nature and engage with local culture.

Exploring on foot

Despite its size, Gran Canaria offers a huge variety of walking and hiking backdrops that constantly change from one kilometer to the next. From mountain peaks to the golden dunes of the south, passing through deep ravines and ancient forests, each area offers hikers a different experience.

Its extensive network of trails makes the island’s interior especially suited to exploring on foot. These winding forest paths let you discover Gran Canaria’s indigenous heritage and hidden mountain villages, opening up onto spectacular panoramic views.

On the coastal paths to the north, you’ll find cliffs, natural pools, and charming villages, while in the south lie sandy beaches and dunes.

Gran Canaria Walking Festival 2026

The Gran Canaria Walking Festival 2026 is taking place 15 -18 October, inviting walkers from around the world to experience the island through a perfect combination of nature, culture, and delicious local cuisine.

This is the ideal way to explore the island on foot; with your accommodation, food, and route planning all taken care of, all that’s left to do is relax and take it all in.

The festival features four guided routes, led by professional bilingual guides. Each one offers a different perspective of the island’s natural, geological, and cultural heritage. There are also plenty of opportunities to sample local produce, stay in traditional hotels and houses, and get up close with the natural wonders of the island.

Image: GCWF 2026

Llanos de La Pez to Tejeda on 15 October is a demanding hike that takes you deep into the heart of the Caldera. Starting in the in the central highlands, the trail runs through pine forests, historic mountain paths and natural viewpoints overlooking the Caldera de Tejeda, with views of Roque Nublo and the deep ravines before finishing up in the village of Tejeda

Image: GCWF 2026

On October 16, the Cruz de Tejeda to Teror hike takes you through chestnut groves, ravines, and rural landscapes on traditional paths, some of which are ancient pilgrimage routes. The hike finishes in Teror, one of Gran Canaria’s most important historic towns and home to the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino.

Image: GCWF 2026

If forest treks are more your thing, Firgas to Valleseco on 17 October explores the lush northern side of the island. A challenging uphill walk, you’ll be surrounded by water, dense vegetation, and agricultural landscapes, offering a taste of rural life in this part of the island.

Image: GCWF 2026

Finally, on 18 October, explore the interior of southeastern Gran Canaria, from the historic centre of Santa Lucía to La Jaira de Ana Farm. The trail crosses ravines, ridges and traditional agricultural areas, revealing a community deeply rooted in rural culture and heritage. The route ends with a warm and welcoming opportunity to try the produce at Jaira de Ana Farm, where sustainability, tradition and local flavours are all part of the experience.

More than hiking

Organised by Gran Canaria Natural & Active and sponsored by the Island Council of Gran Canaria through Turismo de Gran Canaria, the Gran Canaria Walking Festival offers much more than guided walks.

At the end of each route, there’s the chance to enjoy open air picnics, sampling local produce and sharing your experiences with fellow walkers.

Held in partnership for 2026 with Sholeo Lodges, there’s also a range of accommodations that let you stay close to nature even when you’re off the trail. These carefully selected rural hotels and houses are conveniently located at the bus departure points while allowing you to remain immersed in the natural world throughout your break.

Registrations are now open for the Gran Canaria Walking Festival 2026. See grancanariawalkingfestival.com for more.

Image: Gran Canaria Natural & Active

Spice up your hike

Alongside organising the annual Walking Festival, Gran Canaria Natural & Active also provides ways to spice up your own hikes, guided or solo.

Get to grips with the island’s rocky terrain by adding some climbing to your day hike or cool off with a spot of canyoning along the way. Orienteering and mountain biking are also prime activities for discovering the island’s wilder side.

Need a day off from all the action? There’s still plenty to explore, with guided walks around wineries, mindfulness activities, and agricultural farm tours. Learn about fresh local produce such as bananas, aloe vera, and Gran Canaria’s highly sought-after coffee, which is some of the rarest in Europe.

Image: Gran Canaria Natural & Active

Plan your escape into nature

With so many opportunities to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty and rich culture, planning your trip couldn’t be easier with Gran Canaria Natural & Active.

Their network includes rural and traditional accommodations, outdoor activity providers, wineries, farms, archaeological sites, and mindfulness experiences, making crafting your perfect trip an absolute breeze.

If you want to live the Gran Canaria experience, rather than just visiting it, this is a great chance to soak up the island using all your senses, with the added bonus that there’s zero guesswork.

From walking historic trails to tasting local wines and exploring volcanic landscapes, see the full range of Gran Canaria Natural & Active rural accommodations and activities here https://grancanarianaturalandactive.com/en/ and make Gran Canaria your next adventure!