Agüimes

Agüimes is a hilltop town with cobbled lanes, whimsical sculptures and one of Gran Canaria’s most atmospheric old quarters.

Agüimes’ beautifully restored historic centre is an absolute wanderer’s delight. The labyrinthine, cobblestone alleys climb gently towards a central plaza that feels wonderfully frozen in time; its pastel-colored buildings stand as a fine, pristine example of a traditional Canarian hill town where colorful facades hide cozy cafés, tapas bars, and independent artisan shops. As you meander through these historic backstreets, you will frequently be greeted by unexpected life-sized bronze sculptures and witty contemporary artworks—a unique municipal project that has successfully turned the entire old town into a vibrant open-air gallery. Local residents take immense pride in these playful pieces, which depict everything from traditional camel herders to local characters, and it is incredibly easy to see why this charm captivates everyone who visits.

The architectural heart of the town is grandly dominated by the Church of San Sebastián (Parroquia de San Sebastián), a magnificent, cathedral-like neoclassical building whose ambitious construction began in 1796 and, due to various historical delays, was not fully completed until 1940. Its majestic white dome and twin stone towers rise proudly above a scenic sea of terracotta roofs and swaying palm trees. Inside, the grand interior is wonderfully cool and still, beautifully lit by shafts of natural sunlight piercing through high, stained-glass windows. Outside, the lively plaza buzzes with the warm hum of local conversation and the gentle clink of coffee cups, especially during the traditional Agüimes market on Sunday mornings, when local farmers and craftsmen spill onto the surrounding streets to sell fresh cheeses, olives, and baked goods.

Just a short drive beyond the town center lies one of Gran Canaria’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders: the majestic Guayadeque Ravine (Barranco de Guayadeque). This breathtakingly deep valley carves through the east of the island, separating the municipalities of Ingenio and Agüimes, and is officially recognized as one of the longest and most dramatic ravines in the entire Canary Islands archipelago. It is world-famous for its historic, prehistoric troglodyte heritage and modern-day Guayadeque cave houses—entire homes, a chapel, and legendary rustic restaurants carved directly into the sheer volcanic rock walls. Here, travelers can feast on hearty, authentic Canarian food, such as tender grilled meats and local goat cheese, or even rent a cave apartment to spend an unforgettable night under the stone. The ravine also features scenic pine-shaded picnic areas, pristine walking trails, and an excellent interpretation center that explains its massive archaeological importance as a sacred burial site for the island's indigenous ancestors.

Driving the serpentine, winding road through the depths of Guayadeque is a definitive highlight of any Gran Canaria road trip; the dramatic volcanic landscape shifts with every sharp bend, and as mobile phone reception naturally vanishes, it leaves you completely connected with the raw power of the mountains. Spending a few days exploring this region allows you to fully sync with a slower, peaceful rhythm of life. Evenings are best spent on an outdoor terrace, sipping award-winning local volcanic wine while watching the golden sun drop behind the jagged peaks. With the delicate scents of orange blossom and roasting coffee drifting through the air, and deep-rooted stories of pre-Hispanic Guanches echoing through the valley, Agüimes smoothly invites you to linger, to learn, and to truly discover the best things to do in Gran Canaria away from the coastal resorts.

The true magic of Agüimes lies within its beautiful contrasts: historic Spanish colonial streets filled with whimsical contemporary art, a stately neoclassical church overlooking a bustling plaza, and the jaw-dropping depths of a nearby ravine where traditional cave restaurants serve unforgettable meals.