Roque Nublo
The giant rock of Roque Nublo is the most famous rock in Gran Canaria, and at the same time the third highest point on the island. The rock itself is 67 meters high and the peak is 1,813 meters above sea level. According to geologists, the cliff was created by a volcanic eruption 4.5 million years ago.
On days of clear weather, it is possible to look all the way over to Teide in Tenerife (see picture below), which is Spain’s highest mountain. Unfortunately, it is often cloudy at the top, and Roque Nublo also means something along the lines of the rock in the clouds. The clouds and wind make it quite cold on the last piece of the trip, so remember to bring long trousers and a sweater.
The less experienced hikers can park their car in the parking lot at La Goleta (road GC-600), from which there is about 1.5 kilometres of hiking up to the impressive cliff. For most people, the trip back and forth can be done in a few hours, depending a little on the number of breaks made to enjoy the unique nature. It is best to get there early, preferably before 10:00 am, as the parking lot fills up quickly.
The more experienced hikers can start the walk in the small town of Ayacata. From the church in Ayacata, the first of which is wandered by partially marked paths up to La Goleta and from there on to Roque Nublo. The speed of the 5-6 km hike is medium, and the trip is made in 3-4 hours. Back in Ayacata there are a few restaurants where it is possible to enjoy a well-deserved meal after the hike.
Those who thrive for more hikes in the beautiful Nublo Rural Park can, for example, hike to the smaller rock formations Roque del Fraile and La Rana.
Roque Nublo map
The parking lot at La Goleta is on the right side of the map. From here, hike to Roque Nublo at the top of the map. The more experienced hikers can start the hike in the town of Ayacata at the bottom of the map.
