Agüimes (Old Town)

Nestled within its namesake municipality in the southeastern corner of Gran Canaria, Agüimes is a charming hill town offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you seek relaxation and exploration, this destination’s rich past and well-preserved architecture are for you.

Brief History

With a proud history stretching back to the 15th century, Agüimes was first established as a settlement in 1491 following the long-drawn-out Spanish conquest of Gran Canaria. It eventually became a vital center for agriculture and trade, with sugarcane, among others, being extensively cultivated during its early years. Today, the old town’s cobblestone streets lined with well-preserved, hundreds of years old buildings, not just serve as a reminder of its colorful colonial past, but also make it a must-visit now and in the future.

Top Attractions and Activities

Plaza del Rosario and Church of San Sebastián

Lined with palms and colonial-style buildings, the plaza has several large trees with circular benches beneath for relaxing and enjoying the local atmosphere. The square also houses the emblematic Church of San Sebastián, which was declared a Monument of National Historical Interest by 1981. Together, they form the beating heart of the historic quarter.

Plaza de San Antón and Interpretation Centre of Agüimes

The old Iglesia isn’t the only architectural treasure in town. To get to know the historic quarter further, we recommend heading to Plaza de San Antón, where you’ll find the Interpretation Centre of Agüimes. Here, visitors can discover the fascinating history and architectural style of the old town, with a prime example so close by—Casa de Los Camellos Hotel, a simple yet stunning 19th-century mansion that was once home to an aristocratic family.

Agüimes History Museum

Formerly the Episcopal Palace, the Agüimes History Museum, next to the Parque de Los Moros, is a must-visit treasure trove of stories and artifacts from the area’s last five colorful centuries. It has been carefully curated with the help of local families who generously donated personal effects to make it as genuine and worthwhile as possible. Here, you’ll find eight exhibition rooms, taking you on a journey to Agüimes’ pre-Hispanic era, its handicraft industries, and other fascinating topics.

Barranco de Guayadeque

Located just a few minutes drive from Agüimes, this lush ravine boasts a breathtaking landscape that hikers and nature lovers wouldn’t want to miss. This natural wonder’s winding  paths will take its lucky visitors through caves, ancient dwellings, and even cave restaurants (and they are highly recommended!). However, before you begin your hike, make sure to drop by the Guayadeque Museum. This lovely little museum provides plenty of fascinating information about the lives of the island’s earliest inhabitants, who used the caves as homes.

Temisas Astronomical Observatory

Also situated just outside the town, this world-class observatory is undoubtedly one of the best  (if not the best) places for stargazing on the island. Gran Canaria’s blessedly clear night skies are simply perfect for observing constellations, planets, and other celestial bodies through top-notch telescopes. If you’re interested, regular, family-friendly guided tours and stargazing sessions are available for a one-of-a-kind educational experience.

Traveler Tips

• Visit the incredible Guayadeque ravine in the early morning to avoid the midday heat.
• Bring or wear comfortable shoes for walking through Agüimes’ cobblestone streets and rugged trails. As lovely as they are, they can do a number on your feet.
• If at all possible, time your visit to Temisas Observatory during a new moon for the darkest skies that is optimal for stargazing.
• Make sure to bring cash, as you may want to stop by some of Agüimes’ cozy little shops and cafes that don’t accept card payments just yet.
• The Guayadeque Ravine is a popular destination, boasting some truly wonderful (but very busy) restaurants. We recommend researching the dining options, deciding which to try ahead of time, and making a reservation.
• Agüimes’ traditional festivals, especially the Carnival in February, combine culture, food, and fun, so definitely attend or partake if there’s an opportunity.
• The old town is relatively small and parking is quite limited, so arrive bright and early if you’re driving.
• Check out Agüimes’ murals and statues for more taste of the town’s cultural heritage beyond antiquated buildings.
• The town can get windy all year long, so bring a light jacket and a hair tie if you have long hair.

Dining Options

El Populacho

Located in the corner of Plaza del Rosario, where you’ll find the bronze donkey statue (a popular photo opportunity for tourists), and just a few steps from the Church of San Sebastián, this cozy bar and cafe offers traditional Canarian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Their cheesecake, baraquito (an alcoholic coffee drink), ropa vieja (shredded chicken and beef with chickpeas), and Russian salad are favorites among locals and tourists alike.

El Guachinche (Taller Gastronómico El Guachinche, Slu)

Offering a delightful taste of traditional Canarian fare, head to El Guachinche if you crave hearty dishes like Canarian wrinkled potatoes with mojo, ropa vieja, and garbanzada. They also serve unique combinations unlikely to be found elsewhere on the island, such as black pork with strawberries and chicken with guava sauce. Try their almogrote with sweet potato for a local twist, or end your meal with a barraquito, a rich, alcoholic coffee drink.

Bar Restaurante Guayadeque

Carved into the rock face of a ravine, Bar Restaurante Guayadeque, known for its reasonable price and welcoming atmosphere, is the place locals recommend when you ask for a must-try dining option in Gran Canaria. It’s a popular stop after a hike in the Barranco de Guayadeque, given its location. Once here, try their Canarian specialties like papas arrugadas con mojo, queso frito, ropa vieja, and gofio for a true taste of the island’s cuisine.

How to Get There

By Bus