Arucas is the northern town where neo‑Gothic spires rise above banana plantations and rum distilleries. The colourful streets and the magnificent San Juan Bautista church give this hilltop community an outsized presence on Gran Canaria’s map.
Standing in the majestic shadow of its mighty San Juan Bautista church, it’s instantly easy to see why the historic town of Arucas feels more like a grand, sophisticated small city than a typical rural enclave. Hand-carved entirely from the island’s distinctive, dark blue-grey volcanic stone quarryed locally in Piedra Azul, the church’s soaring neo‑Gothic towers and intricate spires dominate the northern skyline. This dramatic architectural masterpiece provides a breathtaking backdrop to the town’s beautifully preserved, pastel‑hued colonial houses and lush, palm‑lined squares. While it is locally referred to as the "Arucas Cathedral," inside, the brilliant sun-lit stained glass windows, Italian-sculpted marble, and masterfully carved woodwork easily rival the finest cathedrals on the Spanish mainland.
However, the rich heritage of Arucas extends far beyond its monumental religious architecture. Just a short walk down the cobblestone streets of the historic center, you will find the legendary Arehucas rum distillery (Fabrica de Ron Arehucas). Since opening its doors in 1884, generations of passionate Canarios have been turning locally harvested sugar cane into internationally award-winning rums, making it one of the Canary Islands' most famous and beloved exports. Booking an official Arehucas Rum Factory tour allows visitors to explore the atmospheric cellars—where thousands of oak barrels are signed by celebrities and royals—and enjoy a generous tasting session of aged rums and sweet honey rum (ron miel).
The natural landscapes surrounding the town are equally captivating and offer a refreshing, fertile contrast to Gran Canaria’s drier, arid south coast. A short, winding drive up to the summit of the Montaña de Arucas viewpoint rewards travelers with sweeping, 360-degree panoramic vistas overlooking the rugged north coast, the bustling capital of Las Palmas, and a rolling sea of deep green banana plantations. Botanists and nature lovers should not miss a peaceful stroll through the nearby Jardín de la Marquesa (The Marchioness's Garden), a hidden botanical paradise dating back to 1880, packed with hundreds of tropical plant species, towering dragon trees, and free-roaming peacocks.
Wandering deeper through the pedestrian-friendly old quarter reveals hidden plazas, traditional stone-carving craft shops, and inviting open-air cafés serving up sweet local almond pastries and strong espresso. The authentic, gentle pace of life here completely invites you to slow down, step away from the tourist crowds, and soak in a side of the island steeped in aristocratic history and agricultural wealth. For anyone planning a road trip through northern Gran Canaria, discovering the cultural treasures, lush gardens, and historic flavors of Arucas is easily one of the absolute best things to do in Gran Canaria.
Arucas proves that the northern regions of Gran Canaria can absolutely dazzle—a captivating destination where all you need to do is look up at the neo-Gothic spires, sip a glass of local sugarcane rum, and gaze out across the endless emerald banana fields.
