Gran Canaria Walking Festival

DISCOVERING THE DORAMAS FOREST ROUTE

GRAN CANARIA WALKING FESTIVAL 2023

21 October

Saturday 21 October / Route 3

DISCOVERING THE DORAMAS FOREST ROUTE

Discover the green heart of Gran Canaria with a walking tour through the Doramas Rural Park! This exceptional route will take you through picturesque mountain scenery, from the streets of historic Firgas, the city of water, to the wonderful Laguna de Valleseco, on a breathtaking journey of discovery and history.

You will begin the day in charming Firgas, known for its close relationship with water, which cascades along its old royal street. The town square is the perfect starting point.

From there, you will head towards Firgas mountain, which offers us a beautiful panoramic view, before descending into the depths of Guadalupe ravine, on an exciting journey through the area’s rugged geography.

A steep climb will take you to the fascinating Doramas caves, a hidden treasure high in the mountains. From there, you will turn off towards Lomo la Data, where you are greeted by a grove of eucalyptus trees and an incomparable view of the surrounding valleys.

 

Technical data

Physical difficulty

Medium-high

Technical difficulty

Medium

Type of route

Linear

Distance

10,3 KM

Duration

6:30 h

Total elevation gain

955 m+

Cumulative negative difference in altitude

575 m-

Track

Google Maps

Elevation Profile

Urban Section
37
%
Path
57
%
Forest Track
6
%

Information to bear in mind

The route through the Doramas Rural Park is a medium-high difficulty challenge with a great deal of climbs and descents. The difficulty involved in this is mitigated by the structure of the route, which intersperses two uphill sections with two downhill sections. This design helps to regulate the physical tension accumulated during the day.

The technical difficulty of the route can be considered medium. There is a single particularly difficult section lasting no more than 10 metres, where hikers must proceed with caution and which can cause a feeling of vertigo in some walkers. This is a very short section in relation to the total route, so it should not be a major problem for most participants.

The route has a provisioning point 6 km from Firgas, just before starting the Camino del Acero that leads to La Virgen ravine. This pause allows hikers to recharge their batteries, hydrate and prepare for the next leg of the route.

It is important to note that despite its medium-high physical difficulty rating, the route offers a great reward in terms of natural beauty. It is also an ideal route for those interested in the history, geography and flora of Gran Canaria.

Finally, as on all routes, you must carry at least 2 litres of water, sun protection and a hat, as well as being alert to the forecast weather conditions so you can have waterproof clothing available if necessary.

Accompanied minors from 16 years of age can participate, it is important to take into account the duration of the routes.

In addition, we remind you of your commitment to follow the indications and recommendations of the guides at all times.

Parque Rural De Doramas – Firgas – Barranco De Azuaje – Cueva De Doramas – Barranco De La Virgen – Laguna De Valleseco

A natural park on Gran Canaria known for its impressively lush biodiversity. Its landscape is characterised by dense laurel forests and different areas of great geological interest.

The picturesque “town of water” lies in the middle of the north of the island. Its beautiful square and the artificial waterfall in its old royal street offer a visual and auditory tribute to water, an essential element of this town.

This is one of the few places in the Canary Islands that still has laurel vegetation, which means it has great ecological value. The path through this ravine offers an unforgettable hiking experience.

With its spectacular views over the valley, this cave is known to be the refuge of the well-known native Canary Island warrior Doramas. The cave represents a significant part of the history and culture of Gran Canaria.

A ravine of outstanding natural beauty and biodiversity which includes several endemic species. The path through the ravine is one of the lushest on the island.
 
A quiet, beautiful reservoir in a small volcanic crater, surrounded by abundant vegetation, it is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature in peace after a long walk. This true oasis rounds off the route perfectly.
 

This exceptional tour will take you through picturesque landscapes.

You will continue walking along the old Camino del Acero, a historic route leading to La Virgen ravine. Here, you will delve into the history of water and the conflicts over this precious resource as you ascend the tributary along the Rapador ravine.

The end of your route will be La Laguna de Valleseco Recreational Area. This leafy setting offers you a peaceful, welcoming location to end our day of hiking in a natural lagoon.

This route includes

  • Civil liability insurance
  • Accident insurance
  • Picnic
  • Guided route and interpreter of the natural, ethnographic and cultural values of the island
  • Transport to and from the start and end points of the route (from Las Palmas G.C or Playa del Inglés)
  • Specialised guided tours in several languages
  • Tasting Canarian products

Enjoy your experience to the fullest thanks to the free app specifically created for our Gran Canaria Walking Festival.

Program
GCWF '23

19 / OCTOBER / ROUTE 1

The caves of our ancestors

We invite you to explore a beautiful route that takes you from Artenara to the welcoming María Luisa rural guest house near Montañón Negro. Get ready to see spectacular landscapes, discover natural wonders and immerse yourself in the rich history of Gran Canaria.

20 / OCTOBER / ROUTE 2

Rocks bathed by salt

You will have great fun following this refreshing 10 km coastal route, which runs from near Sardina pier to Puerto de Las Nieves. After a day full of discoveries, the perfect end awaits you, with a swim in the Atlantic Ocean in the fishing village’s calm natural pools.

21 / OCTOBER / ROUTE 3

Discovering the doramas forest route

Discover the green heart of Gran Canaria with a walking tour through the Doramas Rural Park! This exceptional route will take you through picturesque mountain scenery, from the streets of historic Firgas, the city of water, to the wonderful Laguna de Valleseco, on a breathtaking journey of discovery and history.

22 / OCTOBER / ROUTE 4

Walking among springs

Come with us on an amazing journey through the impressive landscapes of the highest points of Gran Canaria. This moderately difficult route promises fascinating panoramic views, unique natural discoveries and a relaxing stop at Las Calas Rural Hotel. An exciting adventure awaits you!

The price of each route includes: transport, picnic, guides, insurance, snack or tasting lunch and gifts.