Located on Gran Canaria's northwest coast, this town has Europe's only coffee plantations, ancient burial grounds with 645 mounds, and natural pools connected by volcanic tubes.
Agaete, on Gran Canaria's northwestern coast, is home to Europe's only coffee plantations, the ancient Maipés burial grounds, and the Las Salinas natural swimming pools. In Puerto de las Nieves, you can eat fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching Mount Teide rise across the ocean on Tenerife.
Getting to Agaete
You can reach Agaete by driving 32 kilometers from Las Palmas on the coastal highway. Take regular ferry services to Tenerife from Puerto de las Nieves, or use the frequent local buses running between Las Palmas and Agaete for day trips.
Natural Pools and Beaches
Swim in the Las Salinas natural pools, where concrete columns protect swimmers from waves. The pools connect through volcanic tubes, creating multiple swimming areas. Las Nieves Beach has calm waters for swimming, while Guayedra Beach remains quiet and undeveloped. All beaches in the area have volcanic stones and dark sand typical of northern Gran Canaria.
Coffee and Agriculture in the Valley
Walk through coffee plantations in the Agaete Valley, located 43 meters above sea level - the northernmost coffee farms in the world. Local farmers grow Arabica coffee beans next to orange trees and tropical fruit. Join a farm tour to see the growing process and taste coffee made from local beans.
Tamadaba Natural Park
Hike through Gran Canaria's largest pine forest in Tamadaba, where trails lead from pine-covered slopes to coastal cliffs. Look down from Roque Faneque, a cliff that drops 1,008 meters into the ocean. Choose from easy valley walks or challenging mountain trails.
Ancient Burial Grounds
Explore the Maipés necropolis, where 645 burial mounds spread across a volcanic lava field. These tombs date back 1,300 years and belong to the island's pre-Hispanic inhabitants. Take a guided tour to learn about the burial customs and construction methods.
Local Food Scene
Try fresh seafood at Puerto de las Nieves, where restaurants serve fish caught the same day. Order local specialties like grilled vieja (parrotfish) or sama (red sea bream) with papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauce. Pick a restaurant along the waterfront to watch fishing boats while you eat.
La Rama Festival
Join thousands of participants on August 4th for La Rama festival, when people carry green branches from the mountains to the sea following an ancient indigenous tradition. Watch the parade of large papier-mâché figures through the streets, and join in the music and dancing throughout the town.
