Gran Canaria Walking Festival

THE CAVES OF OUR ANCESTORS

GRAN CANARIA WALKING FESTIVAL 2023

19 October

Thursday 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.

Today, you will walk 7.7 km amid impressive places of great archaeological interest. Starting at Artenara, where you will visit and see some of its attractions, such as Artevirgo and the Virgin of La Cuevita. You will also pass Los Candiles cave. Continuing your route, you will discover the historic Caballero caves and enjoy panoramic views of Risco de Las Piedras and Los Moriscos. Then, the imposing Montañón Negro offers you a natural viewpoint where you can appreciate the geological formations. Before reaching your relaxing destination at María Luisa rural guesthouse, you will pass Retamilla mountain. The route offers you an unforgettable experience in a fascinating natural environment, where you can enjoy the culture, history and beauty of the region. Allow yourself to be captivated by the magic of the ancestors of the people of Gran Canaria on this incredible journey! Casa Rural Maria Luisa, you will pass Retamilla mountain. The route offers you an unforgettable experience in a fascinating natural environment, where you can enjoy the culture, history and beauty of the region. Allow yourself to be captivated by the magic of the ancestors of the people of Gran Canaria on this incredible journey!

Technical data

Physical difficulty

Medium

Technical difficulty

Medium - Low

Type of route

Linear

Distance

7,7 KM

Duration

5:00 Hours

Total elevation gain

654 metres

Cumulative negative difference in altitude

413 metres

Track

Google Maps

Elevation Profile

Urban Section
17
%
Path
73
%
Forest Track
10
%

Information to bear in mind

After visiting the charming village of Artenara, there is a steady climb of 500 metres along a path that winds along the northern flank of Caldera de Tejeda. Because of short, exposed section, this route is not advisable suffering from vertigo.

When you reach the highest point of the route (1,726 metres), you head north. This is where the third section of the route begins, all downhill, as you descend 310 metres.

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.

It is also important to remember the commitment to follow the indications and recommendations of the guides at all times.

Cruz de Acusa - Artenara - La Cuevita - El Toril - Montaña de Artenara - Cueva Caballero - Risco de Las Piedras - Los Moriscos - Montañón Negro - Montaña Retamilla - María Luisa rural guest house

This is the least populated municipality on Gran Canaria, with the highest historic centre, located at the top of the island. It is known for its fantastic views all the way to the sea and its traditional cave houses. It offers a fascinating look at the rural life and customs of the Canary Islands.

This is a charming little chapel carved into the rock at Artenara, which is a place of pilgrimage and of special cultural and religious importance in the region.

This cave is an example of the area’s natural rock formations. Los Candiles cave is known for the carvings on the rocks, decorating its interior with pubic symbols representing female energy.

Once home to native Canary Islanders, this cave is a historic wonder that offers a glimpse into life in pre-Hispanic times. Its cave paintings are incomparable evidence of the ancient civilisations that use to inhabit the area.

This extinct volcano is a geological treasure. Its black lava crater, which contrasts with the surrounding green, makes it a photogenic site. The climb up Montañón Negro also offers a spectacular panoramic view of the north of Gran Canaria.

It is the first rural house that makes up the Finca Ecológica Montañón Negro, it is located in the ‘Monumento Natural Montañón Negro, C-15’ of the Red de espacios naturales de Canarias (Network of Natural Spaces of the Canary Islands). Situated at an altitude of 1,500 metres, it is built on the lava flows of the last volcano on Gran Canaria, dating back to around 3,000 BC.

Get ready to see spectacular scenery, discover natural wonders

The lunch will take place in the outdoor area where the Casa Rural María Luisa, located in a privileged area to enjoy the natural environment of the Montañón Negro.

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
  • Snack-type lunch

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.