This mountain village at 1,050 meters sits within an ancient volcanic crater, surrounded by the 70-meter Roque Nublo rock formation and almond groves that supply local bakeries.
At 1,050 meters above sea level, Tejeda sits within an ancient volcanic crater in central Gran Canaria. From its streets, you'll see the 70-meter Roque Nublo rising against the sky, while hiking paths lead to cave dwellings carved into the mountainside. In the village, local bakers create almond sweets using nuts from nearby groves, and you can explore the Abraham Cárdenes Sculpture Museum or follow mountain trails to panoramic viewpoints.
Location in Gran Canaria's Heart
Tejeda sits 44 kilometers from Las Palmas, on the eastern edge of a volcanic basin. The village streets wind between white-painted houses with red-tiled roofs and wooden balconies. Mountain peaks surround the village, including the 1,949-meter Pico de las Nieves, Gran Canaria's highest point.
Ancient Rock Formations
Roque Nublo, a 70-meter basalt monolith, dominates the landscape above Tejeda. Next to it, El Fraile rock formation resembles a praying monk. The island's original inhabitants, the Guanches, left cave paintings and ceremonial spaces throughout these rocks, which you can visit on guided walks.
Walking Routes and Viewpoints
Start your walks from Cruz de Tejeda, where marked trails branch out to several viewpoints. The 4-kilometer path to Degollada de Becerra gives you clear views across the volcanic basin. For a longer hike, take the 12-kilometer circular route through La Culata and Cruz de Timagada, passing the La Paloma reservoir and pine forests. Each trail has markers showing difficulty levels and estimated walking times.
Local Food and Festivals
In early February, almond trees bloom pink and white during the Almond Blossom Festival. Visit the Nublo candy store, which has made sweets since 1946, to taste bienmesabe - ground almonds mixed with honey. The Virgin of Socorro festival in September fills the streets with music and dancing.
Museums and Cultural Sites
The Abraham Cárdenes Sculpture Museum displays bronze and wood sculptures by the Canarian artist. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about local farming and craft traditions, or explore the Medicinal Plant Centre. Both open Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 to 17:00, closing for lunch. The Parish Church of Nuestra Señora del Socorro, with its white facade and bell tower, dates from 1921.
Getting There and Weather
Drive or take a bus from Las Palmas (44 km) or Maspalomas. The Global bus line 18 runs daily from Maspalomas Lighthouse. Winter temperatures range from 5-10°C during the day, and clouds often roll in by afternoon, creating humid conditions. Bring warm layers and rain gear, especially for hiking.
