While summer attracts the majority of visitors to Gran Canaria, the island’s charm really unfolds once the intense heat of August fades. As the air becomes crisp, the diverse landscapes – from coastal cliffs to verdant valleys and rugged mountains – begin to change.
From the coast to the highlands, autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to experience Gran Canaria’s stunning and varied natural splendour.
- Start with lazy beaches and swimming
- Explore spectacular volcanic trails
- Uncover Gran Canaria’s natural beauty
- Dive into beautiful coastal rock pools
Start with lazy beaches and swimming
Often referred to as a ‘continent in miniature’, Gran Canaria offers an extraordinary range of natural beauty, with microclimates ranging from arid deserts to lush forests.
Autumn and winter’s cooler temperatures, with highs averaging around 21°C, make these the perfect time to explore.
Start your journey along the coast, where you’ll find an impressive variety of beaches. From the golden sands of Playa de Las Canteras, which stretches for three kilometres, to the dramatic pebbled coves of Playa de Guayedra and the striking black sands of Playa de Agaete, there’s something for everyone.
Autumn and winter are ideal for swimming, with water temperatures hovering around 23°C, but the crowds are much thinner.
Photo source: Canary Islands
Venture inland and follow the gentle sea breezes through the valleys of the mountainous interior. Here you can explore ancient pine forests in the Tamadaba Nature Park, navigate rugged ravines such as the Barranco de las Vacas, and marvel at volcanic formations in the Caldera de Bandama.
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The island’s highest peak, Pico de las Nieves, reaches 1949 metres and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Explore spectacular volcanic trails
Gran Canaria offers a distinctive version of Spain’s famous Camino de Santiago, with a challenging 67-kilometre route through the island’s volcanic landscapes, pine forests, and banana plantations.
Starting from the vibrant town of Maspalomas in the south and ending at the historic Iglesia de Santiago in Gáldar, this route climbs to about 1680 metres.
Once a vital route for nomadic herders and the only link between towns, this ancient trail now offers a journey of three to four days.
Photo source: Unsplash
Walkers can stay in charming, rustic accommodation in villages such as Fataga, Tunte, and Tejeda.
Autumn and winter are perfect times of the year to walk El Camino de Santiago; the cooler weather enhances the walking experience and the reduced crowds let you take full advantage of the island’s breathtaking views.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Uncover Gran Canaria’s natural beauty
If you’re looking for a taste of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty without committing to a multi-day trek, head straight to the Tamadaba Nature Park on the island’s northwest coast.
This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve boasts ancient pine forests that come alive in the golden light of autumn, and the fresh scent of pine and earth fills the air as you explore its trails.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
From the highlands down through deep gorges to dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea, the park offers a stunning variety of landscapes. Along the way you’ll see volcanic formations and sweeping ocean views.
The main trail takes you from the shade of the pine forest to Pico de Bandera, a peak offering breathtaking views above the clouds.
Photo source: Canary Islands
Dive into beautiful coastal rock pools
The shimmering rock pools along the Atlantic coasts are as much a part of local life on the Canary Islands as the famous papas arrugadas (‘wrinkled potatoes’) and volcanic wines.
Most of these natural treasures can be found along the north coast, making it an ideal route for a late autumn road trip, when the weather is still warm enough for a refreshing dip.
Begin your journey in Las Palmas and visit eight stunning rock pools scattered along the coastline. Start at Los Charcones near Arucas, where sun-drenched terraces overlook deep royal blue waters.
Then head to El Altillo and Charco de San Lorenzo for idyllic swims surrounded by picturesque coastline. Continue your adventure to the emerald waters of Roque Prieto and the volcanic sands of El Agujero and Emiliano.
Photo source: Instagram
Finish your journey on the west coast at Puerto de las Nieves, where the turquoise pools of Las Salinas are beautifully framed by a dramatic volcanic backdrop.
Photo source: Instagram
Read more about authentic travel experiences in Baltic Outlook.