Perched on the slopes of the Guiniguada Ravine, the Viera y Clavijo Botanical Garden is a microcosm of the Canary Islands' diverse flora. The Swedish-Spanish botanist, Eric Ragnor Sventenius, is the founding father of these botanical gardens commonly known as Jardín Canario. For years, he roamed the islands, exploring distant corners, scaling precipitous slopes and venturing down undiscovered paths in a quest to compose an exhaustive collection of the archipelago's endemic species. There are leafy laurel trees, parched xerofila, palms, aeonium, and giant cacti among many others, beautifully arranged in awe-inspiring, thematic gardens that encompass the vast breadth of the islands' exotic botanical reserves. A popular tourist attraction, the Jardin Canario is also internationally renown for its preservation programs. In 1983, a seed bank for the Canaries' endemic trees was established here, and there's also a library, a herbarium, and laboratories. Spread over 27 hectares (67 acres), this vast, verdant enclave is a journey across Macaronesia and its bountiful, natural landscapes, replete with plants that are entirely unique to the Canaries.
Roque Nublo, or the Cloud Rock, is one of the world's largest free-standing rocks and Gran Canaria's most striking natural icon. Formed over 4.5 million years ago, this volcanic rock has been shaped by the elements over millennia into an 80-meter (262-foot) tall monolith at a height of 1,813 meters (5,948 feet) above sea level. Outdone by only the Pico de las Nieves, Roque Nublo is the island's second highest peak. Sweeping views of the surrounding countryside lay sprawled at its feet, like a patchwork quilt of pine forests and farmland arranged in deep, plunging folds. Often shrouded by a bank of clouds or icy mist, the enigmatic Roque Nublo is surprisingly accessible, and it is possible to walk right up to its base. Scaling its sheer face is another matter altogether, a feat braved only by experienced climbers with the right kind of equipment. Described by the Spanish writer, Miguel de Unamuno, as a storm turned to stone, Roque Nublo is a sight of striking beauty, rising from the ground like a defiant behemoth frozen in the guise of a jagged pinnacle.
Auditorio Alfredo Kraus is named after acclaimed tenor Alfredo Kraus, as a tribute to him for his contribution in the field of music and is designed by the famous Oscar Tusquets. Originally built with the purpose of serving as a lighthouse, the auditorium is one of the prominent structures in the city and is an architectural gem in its truest sense. Set against an isolated background, this event venue provides magnificent views of the beach and is partly built on a volcanic rock. It is nothing short of a cultural hub with its theatrical performances and also runs a program of concerts year round that features great classical and modern artists from around the world. It also has well-equipped and spacious halls that can host major events like congresses and seminars.
Bodega Los Berrazales is a winery located on a beautiful farm on the outskirts of Gran Canaria, making for a perfect day out for the family, or for couples. The winery features a variety of wines such as Tinto, Seco, Semiseco and Rosado, which are available for tasting. They also harvest coffee and plant oranges on their farms, which is available for sale at their store.
Enjoy a cycling tour of the Gran Canarias after renting a cycle from the popular Free Motion. It offers a range of cycles and biking gear that enable one to embark upon a private tour of the area. Guided tours are also offered under expert supervision where o0ne can join a group of enthusiastic cyclists traversing the rugged outdoors.
In 1964, this museum was set up in the former home of Benito Pérez Galdós as a tribute to one of the most famous and internationally-renowned Canary Island literary figures. It's a faithful example of a 19th-century middle class Canary Island house, and, inside, you'll find some of the author's original manuscripts, plus part of his collection of 19th and 20th century Spanish literature. Among other notable items on collection, a lovely portrait of the author by the Valencian painter Joaquin Sorolla stands out. Every two years scholars from all over the world meet here for the Congreso Internacional de Estudios Galdosianaos.