Today we will talk about the impressive Roque Nublo, one of the most outstanding natural monuments of Gran Canaria and one of the largest rocks in the world. It is an icon of the island, which is proudly displayed in tourist promotional images.
Throughout this text, we will introduce you to El Nublo Rural Park, its protagonist, the imposing Roque Nublo, and we will describe the experience of walking along its paths. Finally, we will offer you some recommendations to visit this geological jewel of Gran Canaria.
El Nublo Rural Park
El Nublo is a Rural Park and one of the most emblematic localities of Gran Canaria, located in the central-western region of the island, specifically in the central municipality of Tejeda. This area of 26,000 hectares is home to the Caldera de Tejeda, Mount Sándara and the southwestern ravines, where the Roque Nublo Natural Monument is located. There is also the Caldera de Tejeda or Ayacata, a point of geological interest on the island.
The landscape of the park is rugged, with very steep areas, beautiful scenery and several settlements dedicated to cattle breeding and agriculture. Despite human occupation, the natural habitats of the region remain well preserved. The region was declared a protected natural area in 1987 and later, in 1994, it was declared a rural park. Nowadays, it is one of the Natural Areas of the Canary Islands and holds the distinction of National Park, due to its beautiful landscapes, geological formations and varied endemic biodiversity.
In El Nublo Rural Park you will find many trails of different lengths, slopes and levels of difficulty, the main route being the one that takes us to the imposing Roque Nublo.
Roque Nublo, a geological wonder in Gran Canaria
It is a prismatic monolith of volcanic origin located in the El Nublo Rural Park. It rises 80 metres from the base and is 1,800 metres above sea level. It is only surpassed in height by the peak of Las Nieves, with more than 1,900 metres above sea level, being the highest on the island. It covers an area of 450 hectares of beautiful landscapes and attractive volcanic orography.
Roque Nublo has ancestral importance for the locals, having been a place of worship for the aborigines who inhabited the island more than 500 years ago. Nowadays, it is an enchanting place to take walks, enjoy the views and the colourful sunsets of the Canaries. The rock offers a panoramic view of the whole island, with the Atlantic Ocean in the background and the neighbouring island of Tenerife with its representative Mount Teide.
Hiking in Roque Nublo
The ascent of Roque Nublo is one of the star hiking activities in Gran Canaria. It is also one of the oldest routes on the island, where the first climbers tested their hiking skills. Currently, there are 10 routes with different levels of difficulty.
The most famous route to Roque Nublo starts at Degollada de La Goleta (GC-600 road), with a 1.5 km walk to reach the rock. It is an easily accessible route that does not require great physical abilities. This route allows us to get close to two other rocks of great natural value, such as Roque de La Rana and Roque de El Fraile. Along the route, there are great views of the towns of Artenara and Acusa, the Caldera de Tejeda, Llanos de la Pez and Pozo de las Nieves.
Another way to get to the rock is through the La Culata neighbourhood, entering from the path near the Casa del Pino. From the south side, you can enter through the Degollada de la Hoya de la Vieja, along a path next to the Aserrador. Remember that it is forbidden to enter the park with vehicles, whether motorised or not, and non-compliance is punishable by a fine.
Recommendations when visiting the Roque Nublo
The climate in the region is cold due to the altitude. Throughout the year it stays around 8 degrees Celsius, and can drop to 0 degrees Celsius in winter. Remember to wear warm clothes. Of course, hiking boots are a must. Depending on the routes you choose, you can go with children.
On bank holidays and weekends, there are more hikers in the park, so we suggest you arrive early to find a parking space, as there are only 45 spaces available in the Degollada de la Goleta car park. In low season, it’s best to go in the evenings to enjoy the island’s colourful sunsets.
When you visit Roque Nublo, take the opportunity to sample the great local cuisine and explore the daily market for local handicrafts and sweets.
