The Weather in Gran Canaria in December

December in Gran Canaria ushers in the beginning of winter with pleasantly mild temperatures and a welcoming atmosphere. This month is an excellent time to explore the island’s diverse environments, from the sunny southern shores to the verdant northern valleys, and the cooler central highlands. Agaete, with its unique microclimate, continues to offer an inviting retreat in the northern part of the island.

Average Temperatures in Gran Canaria in December

December brings cooler temperatures compared to previous months but still maintains a comfortable climate across Gran Canaria.

Daytime Temperatures

Throughout December, daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The southern coast, including popular areas such as Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, enjoys highs of around 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F). In the north, including Las Palmas, temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F). Agaete, situated in the northwest, often benefits from a milder microclimate, making it somewhat warmer and sunnier than other northern locations. The central highlands and midlands, such as Tejeda, experience cooler temperatures ranging from 14°C to 21°C (57°F to 70°F), ideal for those who enjoy exploring scenic trails and mountainous landscapes.

Nighttime Temperatures

Nights in December are cooler, with the southern coast seeing lows of around 16°C (61°F). In the northern regions, including Agaete, temperatures can drop to about 14°C (57°F). The central and midland areas experience chillier nights, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F), so warm layers are recommended for evening outings.

Sea Temperatures

The Atlantic Ocean remains relatively warm, with sea temperatures between 20°C and 21°C (68°F to 70°F). This makes swimming and other water activities enjoyable, though the waters are slightly cooler compared to the summer months. The coastal areas around Agaete also offer favorable swimming conditions, often benefiting from slightly warmer waters due to its sheltered location.

Sunshine Hours in Gran Canaria in December

December provides a good amount of sunshine, although daylight hours are shorter as the month progresses.

Sunshine Hours

The southern regions of Gran Canaria experience about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine daily, which supports beach activities and outdoor exploration. In the northern areas, including Las Palmas, there are approximately 5 to 6 hours of sunshine each day. Agaete tends to enjoy a bit more sunshine compared to other northern spots, thanks to its favorable microclimate. The central highlands and midlands experience variable sunshine, with clearer mornings followed by possible afternoon clouds, which is perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Impact on Activities

In the south, the reliable sunshine is ideal for beach outings and outdoor activities. The north and central regions, including Agaete, offer good conditions for exploring the lush landscapes and cultural sites, with ample sunshine in the mornings and cooler afternoons.

Rainfall in Gran Canaria in December

December is part of the rainy season in Gran Canaria, though rainfall remains relatively light compared to other destinations.

Rainfall

The northern regions, including Las Palmas and surrounding areas, experience more frequent rain, averaging 7 to 9 rainy days throughout the month. The showers are generally brief but contribute to the lush, green landscapes. Agaete, with its unique microclimate, tends to have less rainfall compared to other northern areas, making it a great spot for outdoor activities despite the rainy season. The southern coast remains drier, with about 2 to 4 rainy days. The central highlands and midlands also see moderate rainfall, adding to the lush and scenic beauty of the region.

What to Expect

In the north, including Agaete, expect occasional showers that enhance the region’s greenery, making it ideal for nature walks and exploration. The southern regions typically have more dry days, allowing for uninterrupted beach time. The central highlands offer a mix of occasional showers and beautiful green landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities.

Wind Conditions in Gran Canaria in December

December brings moderate wind conditions, suitable for various outdoor activities.

Wind Speeds and Directions

The northern coast experiences moderate winds averaging 15 to 25 km/h (9 to 16 mph), which are favorable for windsurfing and other water sports. The southern coast enjoys lighter winds of about 10 to 15 km/h (6 to 9 mph), ideal for beachgoers and family activities. Agaete, being sheltered by surrounding mountains, typically has calmer winds, which is great for a range of outdoor activities. In the central highlands and midlands, wind conditions are generally mild, contributing to a pleasant hiking experience.

Impact on Activities

The moderate winds in the north are suitable for water sports, while the lighter winds in the south are perfect for sailing and beach activities. Agaete’s calm conditions are excellent for both hiking and exploring the valley. The central highlands provide serene conditions for trekking and nature exploration.

Cloud Cover and Humidity in Gran Canaria in December

Cloud cover and humidity in December add to the island’s varied climate.

Cloud Cover

The southern coast usually experiences clear skies with minimal cloud cover, ensuring plenty of sunshine. The northern regions, including Las Palmas, may have more cloud cover, but sunny spells are still common. Agaete benefits from a more stable microclimate, resulting in clearer skies compared to other northern areas. The central highlands and midlands often see morning clouds that typically clear by afternoon, which is ideal for outdoor activities.

Humidity Levels

Humidity levels average between 60% and 65% across the island. The north experiences slightly higher humidity, contributing to the lush environment. The southern regions are drier, enhancing the warm and sunny conditions. Agaete’s valley enjoys moderate humidity, providing a comfortable and refreshing atmosphere. The central highlands and midlands have moderate humidity, supporting their green landscapes and cooler temperatures.

What to Pack for Gran Canaria in December

Packing for Gran Canaria in December requires preparation for varying weather conditions.

For the North and Midlands: Bring light clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cooler evenings. A raincoat or umbrella is useful for occasional showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the green valleys and mountainous areas. For Agaete, pack a mix of summer clothes and layers for cooler evenings.
For the South: Lightweight clothing is suitable for daytime, with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential for sun protection.
For the Center: Pack layers for fluctuating temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings, and good hiking shoes for exploring the stunning trails.

Weather-Related Travel Tips for Gran Canaria in December

To fully experience the island’s diverse climate, consider visiting different regions. Renting a car allows you to enjoy sunny beaches in the south, explore lush landscapes in the north, and hike in the cooler central highlands. Agaete’s valley offers a balanced climate and beautiful surroundings, making it an excellent base for your stay.

The southern coast is ideal for beach activities with its reliable sunshine. Nature enthusiasts and hikers will appreciate the northern and central regions, with Agaete offering a blend of sunshine and lush scenery. Cultural travelers can explore Las Palmas and the picturesque villages of the midlands.

Conclusion

December in Gran Canaria provides a wonderful blend of mild temperatures and varied weather conditions, catering to a range of interests. Whether you’re enjoying the sunny southern beaches, exploring the green valleys of the north, or hiking the cooler central highlands, Gran Canaria has something to offer. Agaete, with its favorable climate and scenic landscapes, remains a standout destination in the northern part of the island. For a memorable stay, consider accommodations like Casa Mimosa in Agaete Valley.

Get ready to discover the winter charm of Gran Canaria and make the most of your visit. Don’t forget to explore our other posts for insights into what the island has to offer throughout the year!

The Weather in Gran Canaria in November

November in Gran Canaria signals the transition from autumn to winter, offering a mild and comfortable climate that enhances the island’s appeal as a year-round destination. This month is marked by slight changes in temperature and weather patterns, making it a great time to explore Gran Canaria’s varied landscapes, including the sun-soaked southern beaches, the lush northern valleys, and the cool central highlands. Agaete, known for its unique microclimate, continues to be an inviting spot throughout November.

Average Temperatures in Gran Canaria in November

November brings mild temperatures to Gran Canaria, creating an enjoyable environment for outdoor activities and exploration.

Daytime Temperatures

The island experiences daytime temperatures ranging from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 81°F). In the south, areas like Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés typically see highs between 23°C and 27°C (73°F to 81°F). The northern regions, including Las Palmas, are a bit cooler, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 25°C (70°F to 77°F). Agaete, located in the northwest, benefits from its microclimate, often enjoying slightly warmer and sunnier conditions compared to other northern areas. The central highlands and midlands, such as Tejeda, experience cooler temperatures between 16°C and 22°C (61°F to 72°F), which is ideal for hiking and exploring the island’s rugged terrain.

Nighttime Temperatures

Nighttime temperatures in November are comfortably cool. The southern coast experiences lows around 18°C (64°F), while the northern areas, including Agaete, drop to around 16°C (61°F). In the central highlands and midlands, temperatures can fall to 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F), so layering is recommended for cooler evenings.

Sea Temperatures

The sea remains warm enough for comfortable swimming, with temperatures ranging between 21°C and 23°C (70°F to 73°F). The waters around both the southern and northern coasts are pleasant for aquatic activities. Agaete’s coastal waters also offer good swimming conditions, often slightly warmer due to its sheltered location.

Sunshine Hours in Gran Canaria in November

November offers a good amount of sunshine, though daylight hours start to decrease as the month progresses.

Sunshine Hours

The southern parts of Gran Canaria enjoy approximately 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day, making it ideal for beach outings and outdoor adventures. The northern regions, including Las Palmas, receive around 6 to 7 hours of sunshine daily. Agaete typically experiences a bit more sunshine compared to other northern locations due to its favorable microclimate. In the central highlands and midlands, you can expect variable conditions with sunny periods and increasing cloud cover in the afternoons, which is perfect for hiking and exploring.

Impact on Activities

The consistent sunshine in the south supports beach and water activities, while the northern and central regions, including Agaete, are well-suited for exploring lush landscapes and cultural sites. The central highlands offer good conditions for trekking and outdoor activities, with sunny mornings and cooler afternoons.

Rainfall in Gran Canaria in November

November marks the beginning of the rainy season, but the rainfall remains relatively light compared to other destinations.

Rainfall

The north experiences more rainfall in November, with around 6 to 8 rainy days. These showers are generally brief but contribute to the lush greenery of the region. Agaete, with its microclimate, often receives less rain than other northern areas, allowing for more outdoor activities. The southern coast is drier, with 3 to 5 rainy days. The central highlands and midlands experience moderate rainfall, contributing to their lush vegetation and picturesque landscapes.

What to Expect

In the north, including Agaete, occasional rains enhance the region’s green environment, making it excellent for nature enthusiasts. The southern areas remain largely dry, ensuring uninterrupted beach time. In the central highlands, expect cooler temperatures and occasional showers that contribute to the scenic beauty of the rural areas.

Wind Conditions in Gran Canaria in November

November brings moderate wind conditions, suitable for a range of outdoor activities.

Wind Speeds and Directions

The northern coast experiences moderate winds averaging 15 to 25 km/h (9 to 16 mph), which is favorable for windsurfing and other water sports. The southern coast enjoys lighter winds of about 10 to 15 km/h (6 to 9 mph), ideal for sailing and beach activities. Agaete, sheltered by mountains, typically has calm winds, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities. The central highlands and midlands experience gentle breezes, creating a pleasant environment for hiking and exploration.

Impact on Activities

The moderate winds in the north are beneficial for windsurfing and similar sports, while the calmer conditions in the south suit beachgoers and family activities. Agaete’s mild winds offer excellent conditions for hiking and exploring the valley. The central highlands provide a serene atmosphere for trekking and nature walks.

Cloud Cover and Humidity in Gran Canaria in November

November features moderate cloud cover and varying humidity levels across the island.

Cloud Cover

The southern coast generally enjoys clear skies with minimal cloud cover, ensuring plenty of sunshine. The northern areas, including Las Palmas, may experience more cloud cover, but sunny intervals are common. Agaete benefits from a more stable microclimate, offering clearer skies compared to other northern regions. The central highlands and midlands often have morning cloud cover that clears by the afternoon, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Humidity Levels

Humidity levels average between 60% and 65% across Gran Canaria in November. The northern regions experience slightly higher humidity, contributing to the lush environment. The south is drier, enhancing the warm and sunny conditions. Agaete enjoys moderate humidity, providing a comfortable and refreshing atmosphere. The central highlands and midlands have moderate humidity, supporting their green landscapes and cooler temperatures.

What to Pack for Gran Canaria in November

Packing for Gran Canaria in November involves preparing for varying weather conditions.

For the North and Midlands: Pack light clothing for daytime and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat or umbrella for occasional showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the lush valleys and trails. For Agaete, a mix of summer clothes and layers for cooler nights is advisable.
For the South: Lightweight clothing is suitable for daytime, with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun.
For the Center: Bring layers for varying temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings, and good hiking shoes for exploring the scenic trails.

Weather-Related Travel Tips for Gran Canaria in November

Consider exploring different parts of the island to experience its diverse climates. Renting a car allows you to visit sunny beaches, lush valleys, and cool highlands. Agaete’s valley offers a balanced climate and scenic beauty, making it an ideal base for your stay.

The southern coast is perfect for beach activities with reliable sunshine. Nature lovers and hikers will enjoy the northern and central regions, with Agaete offering a unique combination of sunshine and greenery. Cultural visitors can explore the vibrant city of Las Palmas and the picturesque villages of the midlands.

Conclusion

November in Gran Canaria offers a delightful mix of mild temperatures and diverse weather conditions, perfect for a range of activities. Whether you’re enjoying the sunny southern beaches, exploring the lush valleys of the north, or hiking in the cooler central highlands, Gran Canaria has something to offer. Agaete, with its favorable weather and scenic landscapes, remains a standout destination in the north. For a memorable stay, consider accommodations like Casa Mimosa in Agaete Valley.

Prepare for an autumn adventure in Gran Canaria and explore what the island has to offer throughout the year. Check out our other posts for more insights into different months and experiences!

The Weather in Gran Canaria in October

October in Gran Canaria ushers in autumn with a continuation of pleasant, warm weather and subtle changes in climate as the island transitions from summer. This month provides an excellent opportunity to explore Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes, including the vibrant southern beaches, the verdant northern valleys, and the picturesque central highlands. Agaete, with its favorable microclimate, remains an attractive destination throughout October.

Average Temperatures in Gran Canaria in October

October offers a comfortable climate across Gran Canaria, making it a great time for various outdoor activities.

Daytime Temperatures

During October, daytime temperatures generally range from 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F). The southern regions, such as Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, often see highs between 25°C and 29°C (77°F to 84°F). In contrast, the northern areas, including Las Palmas, experience slightly cooler temperatures ranging from 23°C to 27°C (73°F to 81°F). Agaete, situated in the northwest, enjoys mild and stable temperatures, frequently a bit warmer and sunnier compared to other northern locations. The central highlands and midlands are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), providing a refreshing climate ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty.

Nighttime Temperatures

Nights in October are pleasantly cool. The southern coast cools down to around 20°C (68°F), while the northern areas see slightly cooler temperatures, around 18°C (64°F). Agaete benefits from its sheltered position, leading to mild and comfortable nights. In the central and midland areas, temperatures can drop to between 14°C and 17°C (57°F to 63°F), so packing a light jacket is advisable.

Sea Temperatures

The Atlantic Ocean remains warm enough for swimming, with sea temperatures between 22°C and 24°C (72°F to 75°F). Both the northern and southern coasts offer good conditions for water sports, with the southern beaches generally providing warmer and more sheltered waters. The coastal waters around Agaete are also favorable for swimming and other aquatic activities.

Sunshine Hours in Gran Canaria in October

October provides ample sunshine, although the amount of daylight starts to decrease as the month progresses.

Sunshine Hours

The southern part of Gran Canaria enjoys around 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day, making it ideal for beach and outdoor activities. The northern regions, including Las Palmas, receive approximately 7 to 8 hours of sunshine daily. Agaete, with its unique microclimate, often experiences slightly more consistent sunshine compared to other northern areas. The central highlands and midlands may have sunny mornings followed by increasing cloud cover in the afternoon, offering excellent conditions for hiking and exploring.

Impact on Activities

The abundant sunshine in the south supports beach outings and water sports. The north, including Agaete, provides a pleasant climate for exploring lush valleys and cultural sites. The central highlands offer good conditions for outdoor adventures, with morning sunshine and cooler afternoons perfect for trekking.

Rainfall in Gran Canaria in October

October marks the beginning of the rainy season, though rainfall remains relatively light compared to other regions.

Rainfall

Rainfall in October increases slightly, with the north experiencing about 4 to 6 rainy days. These showers are generally brief and enhance the lush greenery of the region. Agaete, benefiting from its microclimate, often experiences fewer rainy days compared to other northern areas. The southern coast remains relatively dry with only 2 to 4 rainy days. The central highlands and midlands receive more rain than the south but less than the northern areas, contributing to their verdant landscapes.

What to Expect

The occasional rain in the north, including Agaete, helps maintain the region’s lush environment, providing excellent conditions for nature enthusiasts. The southern areas remain mostly dry, ensuring uninterrupted beach time. In the central regions, expect cooler temperatures and refreshing greenery due to occasional showers.

Wind Conditions in Gran Canaria in October

Wind conditions in October are generally mild, suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.

Wind Speeds and Directions

The northern coast typically experiences light to moderate winds averaging between 10 to 20 km/h (6 to 12 mph), which is ideal for windsurfing and other water sports. The southern coast enjoys lighter winds of about 8 to 15 km/h (5 to 9 mph), perfect for beachgoers. Agaete, shielded by surrounding mountains, often enjoys calm winds, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The central highlands and midlands experience gentle breezes, creating a pleasant environment for hiking and exploration.

Impact on Activities

The moderate winds in the north are favorable for windsurfing and similar sports, while the calmer conditions in the south suit sailing and beach activities. Agaete’s mild winds offer excellent conditions for hiking and exploring the valley. The central highlands provide a serene atmosphere for trekking and nature walks.

Cloud Cover and Humidity in Gran Canaria in October

October features moderate cloud cover and varying humidity levels across the island.

Cloud Cover

The south generally experiences clear skies with minimal cloud cover, ensuring plenty of sunshine. The north, including Las Palmas, may see some cloud cover, but sunny intervals are frequent. Agaete often enjoys clearer skies than other northern regions due to its favorable microclimate. The central highlands and midlands can experience morning cloud cover that clears up by the afternoon, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Humidity Levels

Humidity in October averages between 60% and 65% across the island. The northern areas experience slightly higher humidity, contributing to the lush environment. The south is drier, complementing the warm, sunny conditions. Agaete benefits from moderate humidity levels, providing a comfortable and refreshing atmosphere. The central highlands and midlands have moderate humidity, supporting the region’s green landscapes and cooler temperatures.

What to Pack for Gran Canaria in October

Given the range of microclimates across Gran Canaria, pack for diverse conditions.

– For the North and Midlands: Bring light clothing for warm days and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Include a raincoat or umbrella for occasional showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the lush valleys and trails. For Agaete, pack a mix of summer clothes and layers for cooler nights.

– For the South: Lightweight clothing is suitable for daytime, with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun.

– For the Center: In areas like Tejeda, bring layers for varying temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings, and good hiking shoes for exploring the scenic trails.

Weather-Related Travel Tips for Gran Canaria in October

Consider splitting your time between the northern and southern parts of the island to experience both climates. Renting a car will allow you to explore sunny beaches, lush valleys, and scenic highlands. Agaete’s valley offers a blend of pleasant weather and beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal base for exploration.

The southern coast is perfect for beach lovers seeking consistent sunshine. Nature enthusiasts and hikers will enjoy the northern and central regions, with Agaete providing a unique combination of sunny weather and green landscapes. Cultural visitors can explore the vibrant city of Las Palmas and the picturesque rural areas of the midlands.

Conclusion

October in Gran Canaria provides a wonderful mix of summer warmth and early autumn changes, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re enjoying the sunny beaches of the south, discovering the lush valleys of the north, or hiking in the central highlands, Gran Canaria’s diverse climates ensure a memorable experience. Agaete, with its favorable weather and scenic beauty, stands out as a remarkable destination in the north. For an unforgettable stay, consider accommodations like Casa Mimosa in Agaete Valley.

Get ready for an autumn adventure in Gran Canaria, and check out our other posts for more insights into what the island has to offer throughout the year!

Where to eat in the Agaete Valley (and surroundings)

If you are staying at Casa Mimosa or any other holiday accommodation in the Agaete Valley, you will have noticed that the Valley is not distinguished by a lively social life. And that’s just as well: those who come here are looking for disconnection, nature and relaxation, walking the paths up the valley to the sound of blackbirds and listening to the shearwaters on summer evenings.

However, it would be a shame to leave a place like this without having tasted the delights of the local gastronomy. We invite you to discover the Canarian cuisine through a gastronomic immersion in the Agaete Valley (and surroundings) that will give you a few surprises.

Casa Lolo

Starting from the closest: leaving the Urbanización la Suerte, you will find on the right hand side the restaurant Casa Lolo, which has been serving grilled meat and fish next to the road for decades. It is a very simple but historic place where you can enjoy dishes without great artifice but with substance. The speciality is the grill and local cuisine in general. Good food at reasonable prices. As I’m more into greenery than meat, what I like most about Casa Lolo is the spectacular salad, where avocado and papaya go hand in hand with lettuce, tomatoes and the best of the local terroir.

Bar La Palma

The village of San Pedro is a stone’s throw from La Suerte, the perfect distance for a stroll on foot (be careful on the road: the verges are narrow). In the heart of San Pedro, after walking through Las Cuevecillas along the fork off the main road to the right, you will find the bar La Palma. The owner of the bar is said to make the best avocado salad in the Valley, and I believe it. Croquettes, papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and fabada (bean stew) are also regulars on the blackboard (there is no menu). All very homemade and unpretentious, at reasonable prices.

You can take advantage of the refreshment stop to buy local fruit and vegetables (be sure to try the oranges and papayas) and other food items sold in the bar itself.

Casa Romántica

Here we go to another level. The Casa Romántica restaurant, which you’ll find on the road up towards Los Berrazales, just over a kilometre from La Suerte, has been recommended by the Michelin Guide. It is an obligatory stop for gourmets and for all those who appreciate high quality cuisine based on local produce. The tasting menu, priced at 70 euros, is the modern interpretation of a journey through traditional Canarian gastronomy. Unlike most restaurants in the Canaries, Casa Romántica includes vegan dishes on its menu. The prices are not exorbitant and the sensory experience is worth it. But don’t forget to book in advance.

Refugio El Hornillo

This one is for the brave. The best way to get here is to walk up the valley, either from San Pedro or from El Sao, the highest point of the mountain which can be reached by car. It is also possible to get there by car by making a long detour via San José de Caideros and Fagajesto, but it takes almost an hour and the last stretch of road is not for the faint of spirit.

If you dare to walk up, the top of El Hornillo will not only give you unparalleled views of the valley and the ocean, but also the opportunity to recharge your batteries in an exceptional place. El Refugio is a small guesthouse in the old school of the village of El Hornillo where the host, Nicola, an affable Italian and a great cook, produces the best of Canarian gastronomy on his cookers. Apart from the culinary aspect, the interest of El Hornillo also lies in the fact that it is a village of cave houses, a type of dwelling that is very common towards the centre of the island.

Where to eat in Agaete and Puerto de las Nieves

The town of Agaete and Puerto de las Nieves are full of good restaurants. We are going to highlight three, each for different reasons.

El Perola, an institution

In the middle of the village square, opposite the church, the bar El Perola is an institution and a stop on its terrace, even for a beer and a tapa, is irresistible. At very reasonable prices, its menu starts with the traditional ropa vieja, a pork and chickpea stew with thyme aroma that sums up the essence of Canarian cuisine. El Perola also surprises with an unusual dish: cockles with chips, perfect to nibble on with a cold beer on the terrace. And on Sundays there is sancocho, a typical Canarian dish par excellence that you can’t find in many restaurants.

Angor, the best fish

If you want to eat the best fresh fish on the island, don’t miss a stop at Puerto de las Nieves. Of all the fish restaurants here, the one most recommended by the locals is the Angor terrace. While you’re here, be sure to take a dip in the sea, either at the pier, on the beach or in the natural pools. After your swim, let yourself be pampered by this family-run restaurant, which will bring the best of the sea to your table. It is usually very crowded at lunchtime for the locals (from 2 to 4 pm). If you arrive earlier, you’re sure to find a table. This place has only one flaw: on very hot days the terrace can be a bit uncomfortable. Consider going to another air-conditioned restaurant if the high temperatures are going to ruin the experience.

Hondo Café, something different

This is a relatively new establishment, located at the local swimming pool in the La Palmita neighbourhood. It is small and subject to the opening hours of the pool, so it is not open at night. But you won’t regret coming to try it.

Run by an Italian and a Japanese woman, Hondo Café has nothing to do with regional Canarian cuisine and is a breath of fresh air if you’ve been eating fish and papas arrugadas for a week. Hondo has a small and changing menu, with influences from many parts of the world, and always with vegetarian and vegan options. This is not the place where you would expect to find such a restaurant, and the surprise is certainly a pleasant one. The chef, Michele, is adorable and the presentation of the dishes is wow. Highly recommended.

What to eat in the Agaete Valley

In the Agaete Valley, food is much more than a necessity; it is an expression of Canarian culture and tradition. In this corner of Gran Canaria, the diversity of local ingredients and the freshness of the sea merge to create a unique gastronomic experience. From the tropical fruits that flourish in its fertile soil to the fresh fish that arrives in the port of Las Nieves, each dish tells a story of life in the Canary Islands.

Fruits and coffee farms in the Agaete Valley, Gran Canaria

Tropical fruits of the Agaete Valley

A wide variety of tropical fruits thrive in the Valley thanks to the subtropical climate and excellent soil conditions. Mangoes, papayas, avocados, citrus fruits and guava enrich the diet of the locals and delight visitors. As it is not a large production area, it is not easy to find the products of the valley outside Agaete. However, visitors who visit the farms and buy directly from the farmers are rewarded with products of excellent quality and taste.

A good alternative to buying directly from the farm is to visit the Bar La Palma in the village of San Pedro. As well as offering daily coffees, drinks and meals, Bar La Palma sells local fruit and vegetables. There you will find a selection of the best seasonal fruit of the valley and beyond.

Agaete coffee: A local treasure

The Agaete Valley is the only place in Europe where coffee is grown on a commercial basis. Agaete coffee, grown among the Tamadaba mountains, reflects the dedication and love of the local farmers for their land. Some producers, such as Finca Los Castaños and Finca La Laja, offer guided tours of their plantations. Visiting the farm offers a unique opportunity to learn about each stage of the coffee growing and production process.

The farms also offer the opportunity to taste and buy coffee, allowing visitors to take home a piece of this unique experience. Each cup of coffee tells a story of the land and the hands that cultivate it, celebrating the authenticity and tradition of the Agaete Valley.

Agaete Valley wines: A centuries-old winemaking tradition

In the Agaete Valley a grape variety called listán negro is cultivated, which was brought from Castile in the 16th century and then taken to the Americas, where it is still grown today. In the Canary Islands, listán negro is grown mainly in several wine regions in Tenerife and to a lesser extent on other islands.

The most notable bodega in the Valley is the Bodega Los Berrazales, which offers guided tours with wine tasting. It produces a modest but notable selection of red, white and rosé wines that reflect the hard work of the local winegrowers and the unique climatic and soil conditions that characterise the Valley.

Fish: The taste of the sea

Where the ravine of Agaete meets the Atlantic Ocean, an old fishing village, the port of Las Nieves, offers one of the most emblematic gastronomic delights of the north of Gran Canaria: fresh fish.

Vieja, sama, wreckfish and grouper are just some of the marine treasures that the local fishermen bring ashore. Prepared with simplicity and respect, these fish are served in traditional dishes such as “Vieja a la espalda” or “Cherne en salsa verde”, where the freshness of the sea shines with every bite.

Several beachside restaurants vie daily for the honour of offering the best fish in the area. A tip: accompany your fish dish with an abundant salad and a bowl of blanched gofio (“gofio escaldado”).

A glimpse of the essence of the Agaete Valley

From the tropical fruits that caress our senses to the coffee that awakens our mornings, each mouthful tells a story of the land and the hands that work it with care. In the vineyards and the sea, on the farms and in the kitchens, we find the deep connection between the people and the land they call home. It is a relationship rooted in tradition and respect, a celebration of life and the abundance of a land that has always been one of the most fertile and grateful on the island of Gran Canaria.

As we savour the dishes of the Agaete Valley, we not only experience its culinary richness, but we also immerse ourselves in its culture and history. Each ingredient, each recipe, speaks of the passion and pride of those who call this valley their home.

Is tap water in Gran Canaria safe?

This is a subject that is not discussed in the Canary Islands because it is one of those “truths” accepted by everyone that, if you do a little research, turns out not to be true: “Tap water from Gran Canaria should not be drunk”. Actually, locals don’t claim that it is harmful, but everyone recommends drinking bottled water “just in case”.

Tamadaba mountains viewed from the Agaete Valley

The carbon (and water and energy) footprint of bottled water

Do you know how much CO2 is released into the atmosphere by the manufacture of bottles, bottling and transportation of water for human consumption? Many scientific studies have tried to calculate the carbon footprint of bottled water. For every 1.5 litre bottle, between 44 and 600 grams of CO2 are released into the atmosphere, depending on which scientific study is consulted. Added to this is the consumption of energy (between 5.2 and 10.2 MJ per one-litre bottle) and water (17.41 litres per one-litre bottle). Because to bottle a litre of water, not only the litre inside the bottle is consumed. The bottle manufacturing plant consumes water for production, plus bottling and transport to your hands.

For these reasons, we at Casa Mimosa encourage you to avoid buying bottled water whenever possible.

Can you drink tap water in Gran Canaria or do you have to buy bottles?

Fortunately, tap water is safe to drink in Gran Canaria. You will notice that the local people never drink tap water and if you ask them, they will always recommend you to buy bottled water. Sadly, this was necessary years ago. When I grew up in Las Palmas in the 70s and 80s, the water that came out of the tap came from a water treatment plant that extracted and desalinated water from the sea. It was not advisable to drink it and you didn’t want to because the taste was awful.

Some things have changed since then. Nowadays, tap water in all of Spain is drinkable, including that of Gran Canaria. The quality of the water in the city of Las Palmas, although it still comes from the desalination plant, is among the best in Spain according to a recent study by the Spanish Consumers and Users Organisation (OCU). Although the quality of the water is excellent, the same cannot be said of its taste. In Las Palmas the “agua del chorro”, as we say here, still has a chlorine aftertaste that is not pleasant to the palate. But as soon as one leaves the capital for the midlands, the taste improves.

The University of Las Palmas did a study of the island’s water in 2021 and found that it is perfectly safe and meets all the necessary indicators. The author of the study also pointed out that tap water complies with much stricter health regulations than bottled water and that it is the most closely monitored of all the foodstuffs we consume.

Why do locals still drink bottled water?

The quality of water has improved a lot since I grew up in Gran Canaria, but there seems to have been no political will to change its bad image among the public. This is not surprising when you consider the economic power of the companies that have an interest in continuing to sell bottled water, starting with Coca-Cola and continuing with Nestlé. In many cases, the water bottled and sold by these companies is tap water.

This, combined with the fact that the taste of water in Las Palmas can still be improved, has contributed to the perpetuation of the legend of unhealthy water. The population is not sure if the water is safe to drink, but instead of informing themselves, most people prefer to continue drinking bottled water “just in case”.

Is it safe to drink tap water in the Agaete Valley?

In the Agaete Valley we have the privilege that the water is not only drinkable and perfectly safe, but also tastes surprisingly good. In fact, in the upper part of the valley you can still see the remains of the old “Aguas de Agaete” bottling plant. The water of Agaete was one of the most prized on the island, along with that of Firgas, San Roque, Teror and Los Tilos de Moya, which was the water we drank at home. There was a bottling plant in almost every village. In Arucas they were smarter and started distilling rum (if you like rum, don’t forget to try it, it’s called Arehucas).

If you are staying in Gran Canaria we encourage you to fill your water bottle with tap water and avoid carrying bottles or carafes unnecessarily.