Gran Canaria Hiking and Nature Activities: Trails, Tastes and Timeless Stays
Experience the authentic side of Gran Canaria with our best places to stay for a Gran Canaria hiking holiday or rural escape.
I have visited Gran Canaria many times, but I am ashamed to admit my trips rarely took me further than its golden beaches and lively resorts. I know I am not alone, but did you know that Gran Canaria hiking and nature holidays are on the rise? That’s why I’m so excited to showcase a new series of posts that will let you explore Gran Canaria’s unknown side, its dramatic volcanic landscapes, scenic hiking and walking trails, and some of the best places to stay. Think hilltop hotels, charming cave houses, and unique retreats – all perfect for an off-grid adventure.
Gran Canaria is far more than a year-round sun-and-sea destination. Almost half the island is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where forests tumble into ravines, and a rich food culture is woven into daily life.
Gran Canaria Hiking Trails and Outdoor Activities
Gran Canaria is a hikers and walker’s paradise, with trails that wind through volcanic landscapes, lush ravines, rainforests, and coastal cliffs. From gentle walks suitable for beginners to challenging routes that climb toward iconic peaks like Roque Nublo, the island offers something for all abilities. Thanks to the island’s mild climate, hiking is possible year-round, making it one of the best ways to experience the diverse beauty and authentic charm of Gran Canaria.
Gran Canaria’s annual walking festival is back for a 14th year from the 23rd – 26th of October. Hikers from all over the world will enjoy the four new hiking trails as well as Gran Canaria’s dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and historic accommodation. Organised by Gran Canaria Natural & Active, you can find out more here.
Thrill-seekers can go a step further and try climbing or canyoning. Adventure and tour company Climbo offer a host of group tours including canyoning trips in the rainforest as well as Red Canyon tours and Volcano tours – these are ideal for solo travellers as well as couples and friends. And, if you want to bring the kids along, Vivac Aventura‘s family camps and activities are also worth checking out.
For outdoor lovers looking for a more relaxed slow-paced activity, Mindfulness Canarias Compassion Academy run Mindfulness Retreats, while SLOWMOOVE have regular wellness retreats as well as Yin Yoga sessions, guided meditation, and reconnection practices.
You can also combine hiking and archaeology by visiting La Fortaleza and its museum.
The Best Places to Stay on a Gran Canaria Hiking or Nature Trip
Many choose to go hiking in Gran Canaria while staying in typical beach resorts, but if you really want to go off the beaten track, then choose one of these rural hotels in Gran Canaria. Ranging from 19th-century country estates to working farm stays with outdoor pools, these unique retreats offer a true taste of Gran Canaria away from the usual tourist trail.
1. Hotel Rural Las Longueras
The Hotel Rural Las Longueras invites guests to experience life in a 19th-century country estate, or finca as they are known in Spain. Nestled in the stunning Agaete Valley, this charming property is surrounded by mountains yet sits just 3 km from the sea.
Whether you’re into cycling or hiking, browsing local markets, or exploring nearby museums, everything is within easy reach. With its historic character, lush gardens, and serene atmosphere, this is one of the small hotels in Gran Canaria that makes the perfect gateway to discovering the island’s northwest.
2. Hotel la Aldea Suites
The Hotel la Aldea Suites sits in one of the most unspoiled areas of Gran Canaria, perfectly positioned between the mountains and the sea and just five minutes from unspoiled beaches. This is a peaceful retreat for travellers eager to explore the island’s protected natural parks.
A favourite with hikers, cyclists, and walkers, the hotel offers welcome relaxation after a day outdoors with its swimming pool, solarium, and jacuzzi. Adding to its charm, the property embraces sustainability, with an organic garden that supplies fresh produce to its onsite café – offering guests a zero-mile dining experience.
3. Hotel Fonda de la Tea
Set in Tejeda, one of the highest and most beautiful villages in Gran Canaria, and part of both the Nublo Rural Park and the island’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is the Hotel Fonda de la Tea – a 19th-century gem. This boutique hotel in Gran Canaria blends traditional Canarian style with modern comforts, offering just 13 rooms across four floors.
Guests can enjoy an on-site bar and restaurant, as well as sweeping views from the balcony that showcase the dramatic mountain landscape. With its intimate character and unrivalled setting, it’s a perfect choice for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking one of the most unique hotels in Gran Canaria.
4. Hotel Rural La Hacienda del Buen Suceso
The Hotel Rural La Hacienda del Buen Suceso offers a unique stay on a 500,000 m² working farm, surrounded by banana plantations. Housed in a beautifully preserved colonial hacienda, the property combines historic charm with modern comforts, including an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, gym, and a striking restaurant set in the estate’s former barn.
A favourite retreat for artists, writers, and nature lovers, it’s also ideal for travellers seeking easy access to Gran Canaria’s capital. Just 15 minutes from Las Palmas, this is one of the best hotels in Gran Canaria for a short break with character and style.
Rural Houses and Lodges in Gran Canaria
If you prefer houses to hotels, and want to connect with nature in private, then these holiday homes in Gran Canaria are just what you need. From eco-cottages and apartments to cave houses with a saltwater pool, these rural retreats blend traditional architecture with peaceful surroundings, offering a calm escape away from the crowds and fast pace of everyday life.
5. Casa Rural El Rincón del Nublo
Located in the beautiful high village of Tejeda, the two-bedroom Casa Rural El Rincón del Nublo offers a unique stay in one of Gran Canaria’s most iconic landscapes and just minutes from the Cruz de Tejeda – the centre of the island.
6. Casa Rural La Casa del Moral
The Casa Rural La Casa del Moral is a great choice for a friends or family holiday in Gran Canaria. Seeping up to six this is a relaxing retreat in a rural setting that also offers the benefit of an outdoor swimming pool.
7. Eco-Cottage The Moon of Santa Lucía
Enjoy an exclusive stay in an eco cottage that is just 10 minutes walk from the village of Santa Lucía de Tirajana. The Eco-Cottage The Moon of Santa Lucía boasts eco-friendly materials and sustainable accommodation that is close to trekking routes, making it a popular choice with hikers and walkers.
8. Casa Rural Doramas
The Casa Rural Doramas is a gorgeous eco-friendly house located in the heart of nature. Beautifully restored and located on a large estate with its own vegetable garden and separate terrace, this is a peaceful retreat that you may not want to leave – however, there are plenty of hiking trails nearby to tempt you.
9. Casa-Cueva Las Margaritas
The prize for the most unique stay in Gran Canaria has to go to Casa-Cueva Las Margaritas – a cave house that is carved into the rock, yet boasts all modern comforts, including a private terrace and a shared saltwater pool.
With a naturally steady climate, the cave stays cool without the need for air conditioning, while solar energy makes this a truly sustainable hideaway in the heart of the Biosphere Reserve. Surrounded by hiking trails, archaeological sites, and dramatic mountain scenery, this is the ultimate rural retreat.
Food, wine and local producers to visit in Rural Gran Canaria
To enhance your hiking or walking holiday in Gran Canaria, be sure to explore the local craft shops as well as the island’s food and wine producers. I have listed a small sample below but you can see more here.
On an island that sees almost no rain it is remarkable that wine is even produced in Gran Canaria. Visit the award-winning Bodega Las Tirajanas, or Bodega los Berrazales, to discover their secrets and to enjoy a memorable wine tasting experience.
You can also visit an Aloe Vera plantation at Finca Canarias Aloe Vera, or discover the story behind banana cultivation at Mundo del Plátano La Rekompensa. Children will love to visit La Granja Escuela la Jaira de Ana, for an authentic taste of farm life.
To shop for local foods and handcrafted products and souvenirs to bring home, make sure to check out La Molina and Sabor a Canarias.
I hope this post will inspire you to go walking or hiking in Gran Canaria very soon to let you experience a true taste of this Spanish island. Discover more on Gran Canaria Natural & Active.
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, descriptions are subject to change. This post was sponsored by Gran Canaria Natural & Active.
