Contrasts of Gran Canaria
Contrasts of Gran Canaria
$1835
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Contrasts of Gran Canaria" tour, a captivating journey through Spain's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This tour offers a unique blend of sunny valleys, dramatic gorges, and iconic rock formations, alongside traditional white villages and fascinating cave dwellings. Explore the cosmopolitan capital, Las Palmas, with its stunning beaches and historic center. Enjoy extensive walking options with daily routes tailored to your preference, all while benefiting from the convenience of car hire to explore at your own pace. Stay in charming 4-star accommodations, including the tranquil Hotel Rural El Mondalon and the elevated Parador Cruz de Tejeda, both offering breathtaking views and modern comforts. With all buffet breakfasts included, this tour promises a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in the heart of Gran Canaria. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Los Hoyos
Location: Gran Canaria
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rural El Mondalon
Collect your hire car at the airport and drive (30 mins) to the Hotel Rural El Mondalon, set in the most important vineyard area on Gran Canaria. It's convenient too for the island's vibrant capital, Las Palmas, with its seafront promenade and historic district of Vegueta.
Day 2 : Caldera De Bandama Walk
Location: Gran Canaria
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rural El Mondalon
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's a 10 minute drive to the fascinating Caldera de Bandama via the Jardin Canario - a stunning botanical garden set within a cliff - and Monte Lentiscal with its rich vineyards and wineries. Walk to the rim of the 1000m wide volcanic crater, created after Gran Canaria's last volcanic eruption, and savour the far reaching views over the mountains to Las Palmas - on a clear day, you might even see as far as Fuerteventura! Then descend to the bottom of the Caldera, passing ancient caves, deserted houses and abandoned fields, all that remains of previous habitation, before returning to the hotel.
Day 3 : Barranco De Azuaje Walk
Location: Arucas
Accommodation Name: Hotel Rural El Mondalon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to Arucas (35 min), home of the Ron Arehucas Factory where you can learn about the history of the island's rum making and the almost disastrous effect it had on the local Doramas forest. Buy a sample of this local tipple (to enjoy later back at the hotel) then it's on to Firgas for the circular walk today.
Firgas is a well know pretty town where a fountain splashes in the plaza, and a waterfall rushes down the Paseo de Canarias, a stepped promenade waterfall framed by flower beds above an amazing mosaic lined street.
From this water-rich town you walk into an evergreen canyon, the Barranco de Azuaje. The gorge is surrounded by high steep walls with almost junglelike vegetation made of bamboo cane and bay tree, willow and fern. Widening as you reach the Barranco de la Virgen - Valley of the Virgin, where the heady scents of citrus are present as you walk through orange and lemon tree groves.
Day 4 : Artenara Ridge Walk
Location: Gran Canaria
Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the day with a drive (45 min) to Parador Cruz de Tejeda, your home for the next 4 nights, to drop off your luggage before setting off on today's stunning walk. After an initial ascent to the Caldera de Tejeda ridge, the descent offers outstanding views over the deep ravines, picturesque mountainside villages and iconic rock formations in the centre of the island. The snow-capped peak of Mount Teide on neighbouring Tenerife can be seen in the distance too! Explore the UNESCO recognised old troglodyte settlements of Cuevas Caballero and Cueva de Los Candiles before arriving in Artenara - at 1,270m it's the highest village on the island with nearly 400 cave houses, most dating back to the 15th century. From here, it's a short taxi ride back to the hotel with its superb spa facilities and panoramic swimming pool overlooking the surrounding cliffs and ravines.
Day 5 : Barranco De Guayadeque Walk
Location: Gran Canaria
Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda
Meals Included: Breakfast
Starting from the extinct volcano of Caldera de Los Marteles (20 min drive), you ascend through pine forest to Cruz del Socorro with views onto the Barranco de Guayadeque, one of the most iconic ravines on Gran Canaria. Descend into the gorge past cacti, palm trees and poppies and take your pick from one of the many picture perfect picnic spots offering superb views of the dramatic landscape. The valley is full of stone walls, terraced fields, troglodyte dwellings and ancient caves, some of which are still in use today. Almond trees, agaves and prickly pears are in abundance and you're likely to spot the Gran Canaria Giant Lizard, kestrels, buzzards and ravens too. After your walk, perhaps head into the lower valley and Montana de Las Tierras or Cueva Bermeja. There are several labyrinthine bars inside the manmade caves here - perfect for a post walk drink or a snack! On the way back to the hotel why not finish your day with a stop at Pico de Las Nieves (1.949m), the island's highest viewpoint, with vistas that won't disappoint!
Day 6 : La Fortaleza De Ansite Walk
Location: Santa Lucia de Tirajana
Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's route takes you to Santa Lucia de Tirajana (50 min drive) and a descent through Canary palm groves to the pretty little villages of El Ingenio and La Sorrueda. Explore their characterful streets before continuing to the archaeological site of La Fortaleza, a 2000 year old fortified settlement chiselled out of steep rock which more recently was used in the 15th century by the indigenous islanders in their futile attempt to resist conquest by the Spanish. From here, pass through the site's original carved tunnel to an uphill path through olive trees back to Santa Lucia. Complete your day with a visit to the sleepy, white village of Tejeda, where their speciality almond biscuits and cakes are highly recommended!
Day 7 : Roque Nublo Walk
Location: Gran Canaria
Accommodation Name: Parador Cruz de Tejeda
Meals Included: Breakfast
Balanced on an 1800m-high rock plateau, the volcanic monolith of Roque Nublo dates to the Pleistocene Era and is a must-visit. Starting from Llanos de La Pez (10 min drive), ascend through pine forest to the Riscos de Tirajana ridge. From here, wide landscape views open up to the south, revealing deep barrancos and vertical cliffs. As you reach La Foguera, there are spectacular views to Roque Nublo, the Caldera de Tejeda - with Roque Bentayga towering in its centre - and deep ravines cascading down to the ocean. Then, ascend to 'The Rock' with 360º views over the island and as far as Tenerife, La Gomera and even El Hierro on fine days. Return to your car via the Presa de Los Hornos reservoir, the highest dam on Gran Canaria and consequently also known as the Summit Reservoir. Perhaps enjoy a spa session at the hotel and a drink on the terrace to admire the last stunning sunset of the week before dinner.
Day 8 : Leave Tejeda
Location: Gran Canaria
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Gran Canaria after breakfast
What's Included
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7 nights twin-centre accommodation in 4 star hotels
Enjoy a comfortable stay with 7 nights of twin-centre accommodation in 4-star hotels.
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All buffet breakfasts
Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast included each morning.
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Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
Benefit from the management and support of a local Headwater-appointed agent throughout your tour.
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Route directions and maps
Receive detailed route directions and maps to guide you on your journey.
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Car Hire
Car hire is included for convenient travel around Gran Canaria.
What's Not Included
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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Visas & vaccinations
Visas and vaccinations are not included and should be arranged independently.
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Car Hire (when booking land only - available at a supplement)
Car hire is not included when booking land only, but is available at a supplement.
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Single accommodation (available on request - compulsory supplement)
Single accommodation is not included but is available on request with a compulsory supplement.
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Solo traveller supplement (where only one person is travelling on a departure date)
A solo traveller supplement applies when only one person is travelling on a departure date.
Food
Canarian dishes tend to be simple and elegant, owing much to sun-ripened tropical fruits such as paw-paw, prickly pear and bananas, local vegetables such as sweetcorn and potatoes and fresh fish such as moray and snapper.Specialities include conejo al salmorejo (slow cooked rabbit with garlic, paprika and chili); rancho canario (a chickpea meaty soup), ropa vieja (chicken, pork and or beef stew); chocos (cuttlefish); and crema de puerros y bubangos (cream of leek and prawn stew). The most popular fish are members of the sea bass family - cherne, cabrilla or merluza are common, and you may find grilled swordfish (espada a la plancha), as well as calamares (squid), gambas (prawns) and pulpo (octopus).
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Accommodation
Hotel Rural El Mondalon offers a tranquil stay with a heated outdoor pool and traditional Canarian cuisine, while Parador Cruz de Tejeda provides spectacular valley views, spa facilities, and an elegant restaurant. Both hotels feature comfortable rooms with terraces or balconies, ensuring a relaxing experience. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights of twin-centre accommodation in 4-star hotels. The first hotel is Hotel Rural El Mondalon, located on the edge of the Caldera de Bandama nature reserve, and the second is Parador Cruz de Tejeda, which offers spectacular views and is adjacent to the El Nublo Nature Reserve. ...more ...less
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What are the dining options available at the hotels?
Hotel Rural El Mondalon has a restaurant on site that serves traditional Canarian dishes with a modern twist, although it is closed on Mondays. Parador Cruz de Tejeda also has an elegant restaurant serving traditional Canarian cuisine.
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes car hire, allowing you to travel conveniently around Gran Canaria and explore the island's landscapes and attractions at your own pace.
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Are there any special features of the Hotel Rural El Mondalon?
Yes, Hotel Rural El Mondalon is located in a tranquil area overlooking fertile vineyards and features a heated outdoor pool with views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The bedrooms come with all the comforts expected from a 4-star hotel and include a small terrace.
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What can I expect from the Parador Cruz de Tejeda hotel?
Parador Cruz de Tejeda is situated 1500m above sea level, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. The hotel features a spa, a pool overlooking the ravine and valley, and rooms with panoramic views and balconies.
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What kind of walks are available during the tour?
The tour offers extensive walking options with a choice of 1 and 2 level walks daily. These walks explore various landscapes including volcanic craters, evergreen canyons, and iconic ravines, with opportunities to see traditional villages and archaeological sites.
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What are some of the highlights of the walks included in the tour?
Highlights include walking to the rim of the Caldera de Bandama, exploring the Barranco de Azuaje with its jungle-like vegetation, visiting the UNESCO recognized troglodyte settlements, and ascending to Roque Nublo for 360-degree views over the island.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
Contrasts of Gran Canaria
8 Days Starting in Los Hoyos, Spain and ending in Tejeda, Spain
Visiting: Gran Canaria, Arucas, Santa Lucia de Tirajana
Tour operator:
Tour code:
W07RI
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
12-99