Start our adventure with Tamadaba Natural Park, a true gem among Gran Canaria's national parks. Located in the northwestern part of the island, this vast protected area offers visitors an extraordinary natural and scenic experience. Tamadaba is particularly famous for its majestic pine forests, which cover much of the park, forming the green heart of the island. The hiking trails through the park are well-marked and suitable for different levels of experience, making it ideal for families with children as well as experienced trekkers.

One of the most popular trails in Tamadaba is the one leading to the viewpoint, which offers a spectacular view of Gran Canaria's west coast and Tenerife on the horizon. This hike, which takes about 2-3 hours, offers not only beautiful views, but also the opportunity to interact with the park's unique flora and fauna. It is worth remembering that due to the altitude, temperatures in the park can be lower than on the coast, so it is recommended to bring warmer clothing.

Another fascinating trail is the Roque Bentayga Hiking Area, located in the heart of the island. This is a site of great historical and cultural significance, associated with the lives of Gran Canaria's ancient Guanche people. Roque Bentayga is an impressive rock formation that dominates the area, offering unforgettable views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The route to Roque Bentayga is relatively short (about 1.5 kilometers one way), but quite steep, making it moderately difficult. There is an interpretive center at the top, where you can learn more about the history and significance of the site.

Both of these trails offer unique experiences, but differ in character. Tamadaba Natural Park delights with its vast forests and panoramic ocean views, while Roque Bentayga takes you back in time, allowing you to discover the secrets of the island's ancient inhabitants. Tamadaba is ideal for those looking for longer, varied trails surrounded by lush nature, while Roque Bentayga is a shorter but intense trail with a strong cultural and historical emphasis. Both places have one thing in common - breathtaking views that will remain in the memory of every visitor for a long time.

Continuing our journey through Gran Canaria's most beautiful trails, we can't leave out the Ruta de La Plata. This route, also known as the 'Silver Route,' is a real treat for lovers of hiking and spectacular landscapes. The trail begins in the picturesque village of Tejeda and passes through a variety of ecosystems, from pine forests to volcanic terrain. The Ruta de La Plata is a trail of medium difficulty that requires good physical fitness, but rewards hikers with incredible views of the central part of the island.

One of the most distinctive features of this trail is the opportunity to observe endemic plant species such as tajinaste and verodes. The trail is well marked and well maintained, making it safe even for less experienced hikers. It is worth remembering to bring enough water and snacks, as there are no refreshment facilities on the trail. The entire route takes about 6-7 hours, depending on the pace and frequency of stops.

The next point on our list is Ventana del Nublo, or 'Nublo Window.' This remarkable site is located near Gran Canaria's famous symbol, Roque Nublo. The trail to Ventana del Nublo is relatively short (about 2 km one way) and easy, making it ideal for families with children or those who prefer a less demanding route. The reward for this short hike is one of the most iconic views on the island - a natural 'window' in the rock through which you can admire the majestic Roque Nublo and the vast landscapes of central Gran Canaria.

For those who are looking for a real challenge and want to experience Gran Canaria from a completely different perspective, we recommend La 365 Trail. This challenging route circles the entire island, offering an unparalleled experience of Gran Canaria's diverse landscapes and ecosystems. The full route is approximately 365 kilometers and is divided into stages that can be completed gradually. La 365 Trail takes you through some of the island's most spectacular sites, including Tamadaba National Park, the volcanic landscapes of the island's center, or picturesque inland villages.

Comparing the three trails, each offers something unique. The Ruta de La Plata is ideal for those looking for a balanced combination of physical challenge and beautiful views. Ventana del Nublo is a short but extremely rewarding trail, ideal for those who want to see Gran Canaria's iconic sites without undertaking long hikes. La 365 Trail, on the other hand, is for the most ambitious and experienced hikers who want to explore the island in a comprehensive and in-depth way. Regardless of the route chosen, each one guarantees an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to discover the true character of Gran Canaria.

In our journey through Gran Canaria's most beautiful trails, we cannot miss two exceptional sites that represent the quintessence of the island's natural beauty and geological history. The first is the Monumento Natural del Roque Nublo, a symbol of Gran Canaria and one of the most recognizable sites on the island. This majestic rock formation, rising to a height of 80 meters, is not only a destination in itself, but also the starting point for many fascinating hiking trails.

The trail leading to Roque Nublo begins at the parking lot near the GC-600 road and is relatively easy to follow. The trail is about 1.5 kilometers one way and takes about 30-40 minutes of leisurely walking. Although the trail is short, it offers unforgettable views of the central part of the island, and on sunny days you can even see Tenerife on the horizon. It is worth remembering that due to the altitude (about 1,800 meters above sea level), the temperature can be much lower than on the coast, so it is recommended to bring warmer clothing.

Gran Canaria's other hidden treasure worth discovering is the Parque Natural de Pilancones. Located in the southern part of the island, this vast natural park offers a very different landscape than the northern and central regions of Gran Canaria. Pilancones is home to rugged desert landscapes, deep gorges and endemic plant species that have adapted to life in the dry climate.

One of the most popular trails in the Parque Natural de Pilancones is the route through the Pilancones Gorge. This moderately difficult route of about 10 kilometers offers a fascinating journey through the park's diverse ecosystems. The hike takes about 4-5 hours and requires good physical fitness. Along the way you can admire impressive rock formations, ancient Canary Island pines and, if you're lucky, see endemic bird species.

Comparing the two places, each offers a unique experience. Roque Nublo is a short but intense tour, ideal for those who want to see the iconic symbol of Gran Canaria and enjoy the panoramic views without a long hike. It's also a great option for families with children or those with limited mobility. The Parque Natural de Pilancones, on the other hand, is for more experienced hikers who appreciate longer routes and want to discover a lesser-known but equally fascinating face of Gran Canaria.

Regardless of the route chosen, both Roque Nublo and Parque Natural de Pilancones offer unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to commune with Gran Canaria's wild, untamed nature. It's worth remembering to properly prepare for your hike - comfortable trekking shoes, enough water and snacks, and sunscreen are essential items of equipment on both trails.

To sum up our journey through Gran Canaria's 7 most beautiful hiking trails, we can't help but notice how diverse and fascinating the island is. From the lush forests of Tamadaba Natural Park, to historic sites like Roque Bentayga, to the rugged landscapes of Parque Natural de Pilancones, each trail offers unique experiences and unforgettable views. Gran Canaria is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, where there is something for everyone, regardless of their level. Exploring these wild landscapes is not only an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature, but also a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the island's history and culture. We encourage you to explore these fascinating trails and discover the hidden treasures of Gran Canaria on your own!