Roque Nublo in Las Palmas
Gran Canaria's Roque Nublo is the island's second highest peak, standing at 80 metres and 1,813 metres above sea level. It's one of the most dramatic sights in the Canary Islands and definitely not to be missed. Gran Canaria's most dramatic rock is situated in the Nublo Rural Park, which is in the middle of the island in Tejeda municipality.
The unique red monolith was created after a volcano erupted about four and a half million years ago. It's since become a protected national monument within the park and is well worth coming to see, either by car or as part of an organised excursion.
Roque Nublo literally translates as “Cloudy Rock,” because it seems to vanish into the mist on foggy days. However, when the suns out and let's face it, there are plenty of those on Gran Canaria, there are panoramic and dramatic views to be enjoyed as far as the eye can see.
Head to this natural beauty spot and you'll get a taste of the real island, with a landscape of lush vegetation, sleepy villages, and steep ravines. You'll also be able to see Pico de Las Nieves while you're up there, Gran Canaria's highest peak at 1,949 metres. It's even possible to see Mount Teide in Tenerife on a clear day.
How to get to Roque Nublo
Getting to Roque Nublo by car is easy. It's about an hour's drive from Gran Canaria's capital city of Las Palmas and just over an hour's drive from Maspalomas. There are parking spaces, although it's advised to go earlier rather than later if you want a space near the rock.
The 1.5km trail to the top begins from the car park, where usually, there's a stall selling local products, ice-creams and souvenirs. Once you're parked, follow the signs and walk up a relatively steep and uneven track, which will take you to the top. It's definitely a day to leave your flip flops behind and wear some sensible shoes, and unfortunately, this isn't an attraction for those with mobility issues. Take a bottle of water to stay hydrated along the way and also bring a second layer, as it gets a little chilly at the top.
But, don't worry, the views at the peak are certainly worth the walk. A Roque Nublo hike may seem a daunting prospect, but it's possible to walk not only up to the rock but also through some of the pine forests and trails within the park itself, which is also a UNESCO designated biosphere. It'll certainly be a day you won't forget in a hurry.
More Things To Do ideas
Find more Things To Do in Gran Canaria: Bandama Caldera | Catedral De Santa Ana | Hiking & Walking In Gran Canaria | Jardin Canario | Nightlife Gran Canaria | Paddle Surfing Gran Canaria | Palmitos Park | Vegueta - Las Palmas Old Town
Best hotels in Gran Canaria
Hotel LIVVO Valle Taurito
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Playa de Taurito
1823 reviews
Barcelo Margaritas
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Playa del Ingles
614 reviews
Babalu Apartment
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Puerto Rico
744 reviews
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Gran Canaria Mogan
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Puerto de Mogan
3832 reviews
Servatur Casablanca Suites and Spa - Adults Only
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Puerto Rico
1094 reviews
Nido del Aguila
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Puerto Rico
1158 reviews
Gloria Palace San Agustin Thalasso & Hotel
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, San Agustin
7734 reviews
Occidental Roca Negra - Adults Only
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Agaete
546 reviews
Abora Interclub Atlantic by Lopesan Hotels
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, San Agustin
4679 reviews
Bluebay Beach Club
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Bahia Feliz
1148 reviews
HL Rondo Hotel
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Playa del Ingles
456 reviews
Mogan Princess & Beach Club
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Playa de Taurito
2671 reviews
Rey Carlos
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Playa del Ingles
414 reviews
Seven Hotel & Wellness-Gay Men Only
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Maspalomas
430 reviews
IG Nachosol Atlantic & Yaizasol by Servatur
Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Puerto Rico
261 reviews