Plus appréciés Attractions à Ile de la Grande Canarie (Iles Canaries)

The successful reforestation policy conducted in Gran Canaria since the middle of the 20th century has resulted in recovering threatened areas, such as the Tamadaba massif, now covered with spectacular pinewoods. The Canary Islands government has now placed a conservation order on this area. Within this pine forest are some very grand old trees, while from the craggy foothills, such as Risco del Faneque, there's a fantastic view of the town of Agaete and Andén Verde, with its cliffs descending sharply into the sea. For more information, contact City Hall at the above number.

Gran Canaria has an extensive network of dams and reservoirs with a view to making the most of all the rainfall here. However, at present it's at its lowest level since the 1970s, just 17% full. In this context, the Presa de Chira, the largest dam on the island, has lost part of its past splendour, but is still a magical place to spend a few days relaxing. You can reach it from San Bartolomé or Ayacata, as it's half-way between the two, and has a hostel sleeping up to forty people, with food and bath facilities. Camping is also permitted for up to sixty people. The campsite has showers and a bath, and a 15000-peseta deposit is required. For further details, phone the Environment Ministry at the above number.

Around 1485 in Gran Canaria there were only a few fortifications left to protect the island against the Castilian conquerors. One of these was this steep rock, with a cave, by the Barranco de las Tirajanas. It's said that, worn down by Pedro de Vera's troops and by hunger, the Islanders finally decided to surrender, all except Bentejuí, that is, a leader who preferred to kill himself rather than give himself up. In commemoration of this tragic incident, each year on 29th April there's a memorial service on this rock, some going to celebrate the conquest of Tamaran, the island which would become known as Gran Canaria, and others to celebrate Bentejuí's act, a symbol of independence for some. Admission: free

Grâce à son implantation à près de 1.000 m d'altitude, une promenade le long de la rive du lac de barrage le plus élevé de l'île vaut le déplacement.