Attractions and Places To See around Arucas - Top 20

Arucas is rich in history and culture. The most prominent landmark is the imposing Church of San Juan Bautista, often called the Arucas Cathedral, built from local blue volcanic stone. You can also explore the Historic Old Town with its colorful cobbled streets, Constitution Square featuring the 19th-century Town Hall, and the Casa de la Cultura, a traditional Canarian house with a beautiful interior patio.

For spectacular panoramic views, head to La Montaña de Arucas. This former volcano offers vistas of the island's northern coastline, Las Palmas, and the central mountains from its summit viewpoint. Another highly rated viewpoint is Crest Trail – Bandama Caldera, which provides extensive views of the island's northern coastline.

Yes, the Jardín de la Marquesa is a five-hectare botanical garden located at the foot of Montaña de Arucas. It features a diverse collection of plants, trees, and a colony of free-roaming peacocks. Within the town, you can also find the peaceful Municipal Park (Parque de las Flores) with its sculptures and dragon trees.

Arucas offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find routes like the 'Ruins of the Hotel Azuaje – Barranco Trail loop' or the 'Arucas Town Hall – Municipal Park loop'. Cyclists can explore routes such as 'Cenobio de Valerón – Barranco de Moya loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Arucas and Road Cycling Routes around Arucas guides.

Several attractions in and around Arucas are suitable for families. The Jardín de la Marquesa with its peacocks and diverse plants is a great option. The Arucas Coastline and Beaches, including Bañaderos-El Puertillo Beach, offer natural rock pools and space for relaxation. Additionally, the Cathedral of Santa Ana and Plaza de Santa Ana in Las Palmas are noted as family-friendly historical sites.

Yes, you can visit the Arehucas Rum Factory (Destilerías Arehucas), which has been producing rum since 1883. They offer guided tours to learn about the rum-making process and see their aging cellar. For local crafts, the Interpretation Centre of the Stonemason highlights Arucas' tradition of stonework, and Piedras la Cantera is an historic quarry where you can find craft souvenirs made from the famous blue stone.

Gran Canaria enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, making Arucas a good destination almost any time. However, for comfortable sightseeing and outdoor activities, the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months often offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The island's pleasant climate means you can enjoy attractions and calm waters even in winter.

Arucas boasts an 8.75-mile long, winding coastline with cliffs and beaches. Notable spots include Bañaderos-El Puertillo Beach and San Andrés Beach. These areas are known for their natural rock pools and excellent seafood restaurants, offering a refreshing coastal experience.

The architecture in Arucas is distinctive due to its widespread use of local blue volcanic stone. This material gives many buildings, including the impressive Church of San Juan Bautista and structures in the Historic Old Town, a unique and cohesive aesthetic. The town center itself is recognized for its historical-artistic interest, showcasing significant architectural pieces.

Beyond the rum factory, Arucas offers a couple of unique museums. The Arucas Municipal Museum, housed in an early 19th-century building, displays an extensive collection by Canarian painters and sculptors. You can also visit the Museo del Platano (Banana Museum) at Hacienda La ReKompensa, which focuses on the history and importance of banana cultivation in the region.

Visitors to Arucas often praise the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. The imposing architecture of the Church of San Juan Bautista and the charm of the Historic Old Town are frequently highlighted. Many also appreciate the stunning panoramic views from La Montaña de Arucas and the diverse plant life at Jardín de la Marquesa. The komoot community has shared over 490 photos and given more than 720 upvotes to the attractions around Arucas.

While specific accessibility details vary, some areas are noted for being more accessible. For instance, Las Canteras Beach, though not directly in Arucas, is highlighted as being handicapped accessible with showers and changing rooms. Within Arucas, the main squares and flatter parts of the old town may offer easier navigation, but it's always advisable to check specific venue details.

To experience traditional Canarian life, wander through the Historic Old Town of Arucas, characterized by its cobbled streets and traditional architecture. The Casa de la Cultura, a 17th-century Canarian house, offers a glimpse into historical living with its balconied interior patio. Visiting the local markets or enjoying seafood at coastal restaurants also provides an authentic taste of the island's culture.