This calm town in northern Gran Canaria has Europe's oldest rum distillery, a 60-meter neo-Gothic church built from volcanic stone, and a garden with 500 plant species.
Arucas sits 12 kilometers from Las Palmas in northern Gran Canaria, with banana plantations and volcanic stone quarries surrounding the town. The blue-gray neo-Gothic Church of San Juan Bautista rises above the town center, its spires visible for miles around. You can climb the 60-meter church tower, walk through the Marquesa's 19th-century botanical garden with its 500 plant species, or taste rum at one of Europe's oldest distilleries.
Getting to Arucas
Take the Global bus 210 from Las Canteras beach in Las Palmas, which reaches Arucas in 45 minutes. The route winds through banana plantations and gives you the first view of the town's church spires rising above the rooftops.
The Church of San Juan Bautista
Local stonemasons built this neo-Gothic church entirely from Arucas volcanic stone between 1909 and 1977. The 60-meter tower makes it the tallest church in the Canary Islands. Inside, you'll find stained glass windows created by French artisans Maumejean et Frères, along with paintings by Cristóbal Hernández de Quintana and a wooden sculpture of the Resting Christ by local artist Manuel Ramos.
Rum Production and Tours
At the Arehucas Rum Factory, running since 1884, workers produce over 3.5 million liters of rum annually. Take a tour (Monday to Friday, 9:00-14:00) to see one of Europe's oldest rum cellars and learn about the distillation process. Look for barrels signed by Spanish celebrities and royal family members in the cellar.
Gardens and Green Spaces
Walk through the Marquesa's Garden, created in 1880, where more than 500 plant species grow in romantic-style paths and flowerbeds. Visit the House of Culture to see its traditional Canarian courtyard and centuries-old dragon tree. Both gardens open Monday to Saturday, 9:00-18:00.
Beaches and Coast
Several beaches line the northern coast of Arucas, including San Andrés and Bañaderos-El Puertillo. Swim in the natural pools at Los Charcones, where stone walls block the strong ocean waves. Find small restaurants along the coast serving fish caught the same morning.
Local Food and Markets
Browse the Saturday morning market at Parque de la Paz for local produce, including watercress, sweet potatoes, and tropical fruits. Try traditional Aruquense dishes at local restaurants, especially the watercress stews made with beans and corn.
Mountain Views
Climb the Mountain of Arucas, rising 412 meters above sea level, for views across the northern coastline and Las Palmas. At the top, you'll find a viewing platform with a restaurant overlooking most of the island's northern region.
