Coffee & Wine: North Route of Gran Canaria Tour

Gran Canaria’s North Route: Coffee, Wine, and Authentic Villages in a Day

Imagine spending a day exploring some of Gran Canaria’s most picturesque villages, tasting local coffees and wines, and soaking in breathtaking scenery—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide. For around $62 per person, this 7-hour guided tour takes you through charming towns like Arucas, Firgas, and Agaete, where you’ll get a genuine taste of the island’s agricultural bounty. The tour is perfect for travelers eager to see beyond the beaches and experience local culture, produce, and scenic landscapes in a relaxed, well-organized setting.

What we love about this experience is how it combines delicious tastings with cultural insights. The visit to La Laja estate and Los Berrazales Bodega offers a rare peek into the only coffee production on the island—something you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. Plus, the charming stops at Firgas’ waterfall fountain and Puerto de las Nieves’ fishing port give you a true sense of the island’s traditional character. That said, one possible consideration is that the coffee tasting is limited to one location, which might be a letdown for those hoping for multiple coffee samples or wine tastings, since the latter isn’t the main focus.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate local food, scenic villages, and cultural stories, especially those interested in coffee and wine. If you’re looking for an easy, well-paced day that balances sightseeing with tasting, this trip offers excellent value and authentic flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic Taste of Gran Canaria through carefully selected stops featuring local coffee, wine, cheese, and produce.
• Comprehensive Itinerary covering charming villages, agricultural estates, and scenic coastal spots in just one day.
• Insightful Guides enhancing your experience with cultural stories and local knowledge.
• Convenience with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to focus on enjoying the day.
• Limited but Meaningful Tastings focusing mainly on coffee and some optional cheese tastings, with wine not the main emphasis.
• Balance of Sightseeing and Tasting perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, immersive experience.

Exploring Gran Canaria’s North Route: What to Expect

This guided tour offers a well-rounded experience designed for those who want to savor the best of Gran Canaria’s rural character and local produce without the hassle of planning multiple stops. It begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Las Palmas, allowing you to relax before the adventure begins.

First Stop: Arucas

We start by heading north to Arucas, a town famed for its expansive banana plantations and historical sugar cane fields—once called “white gold.” The highlight here is the neo-Gothic church of San Juan Bautista, a striking building that dominates the old town landscape. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way the guide explained local history and pointed out the impressive architecture.” You get about an hour to stroll through the streets, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere.

The agricultural surroundings are a reminder of the island’s traditional farming roots, and the guide often shares insights about how sugar and bananas have shaped local life. The proximity to lush plantations makes this stop visually appealing and helps understand the island’s economic history.

Second Stop: Firgas

Next, we visit Firgas, a tiny village that locals affectionately call the “municipality of water” because of its notable 30-meter waterfall fountain. This charming spot is perfect for a quick walk, photos, or even a coffee break. The fountain and water features add a peaceful, refreshing vibe, and the town’s quaint streets are lined with local shops. Expect about an hour here, giving you plenty of time to absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

Third Stop: Santa Maria de Gua de Gran Canaria

Our journey then takes us inland to Santa Maria de Gua, a small village renowned for its award-winning cheeses. Although cheese tasting is optional and not included in the main price, it’s a worthwhile stop for food lovers. The guide might share stories about local cheese-making traditions, and if you choose to indulge, you’ll sample some of the best the island has to offer. This 40-minute stop offers a genuine taste of local agriculture and culinary pride.

Fourth Stop: Agaete and Bodega Los Berrazales

One of the most exciting parts of the tour is the visit to Agaete, known for its vibrant agricultural environment—banana, potato, vegetable, and tropical fruit plantations flourish here. The highlight is a guided visit to La Laja estate and Bodega Los Berrazales, the island’s only coffee producers. This is where you’ll truly connect with local craftsmanship, as the guide explains the coffee production process and leads you through the lush estate.

You’ll get to sample freshly brewed coffee, which makes this stop stand out. According to reviews, “The coffee tasting was a real highlight, and the environment was simply beautiful.” The visit lasts about an hour and a half, giving you ample time to appreciate the surroundings and enjoy the flavors.

Final Stop: Puerto de las Nieves

The tour concludes at Puerto de las Nieves, a classic fishing village framed by rugged coastlines and lively harbor scenes. Here, you’ll have free time for lunch (not included in the tour price) or a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Many travelers find this relaxing way to end the day, soaking in the maritime ambiance and perhaps picking up some local seafood or souvenirs.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Guides play a crucial role in enriching this experience. Reviewers praise guides like Francisco for their knowledgeable, friendly approach and ability to share interesting stories about local history and produce. Expect a relaxed, engaging commentary that helps you understand the significance of the sights and flavors.

Logistics are streamlined, thanks to hotel pickup from Las Palmas and a group size capped at 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The timing is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore, taste, and relax.

Cost-wise, at approximately $62, the tour provides good value considering the variety of sights, tastings (including coffee and optional cheese), and guided insights. The lunch is not included, but there are plenty of local eateries at Puerto de las Nieves, offering fresh seafood and tapas, often with excellent reviews.

What to bring? Pack a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and water—the outdoor stops and warm climate make sun protection essential. The tour is suitable for ages 6 and up, making it family-friendly.

What Travelers Say

Feedback is generally positive, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 15 reviews. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the scenic, authentic stops. Daniela highlights “a day of wonders,” appreciating the mix of nature, flowers, wine, cheese, coffee, ocean, and guidance. Tara appreciated the guide Francisco, noting it was a “great way to see the north side of Gran Canaria” and enjoy local food and culture.

Some reviewers mention a slight mismatch in expectations regarding wine tasting, which isn’t the main focus of the tour. Brad notes, “The wine part wasn’t included or even a focus,” but still considers the overall experience valuable. This honesty helps set realistic expectations for prospective travelers.

The Sum Up

This Coffee & Wine: North Route of Gran Canaria Tour offers an engaging blend of scenic villages, local produce, and cultural insights, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic taste of the island’s rural charm. The fact that it includes coffee tasting at the island’s only coffee estate makes it a unique experience, especially for those interested in culinary traditions. The thoughtful pacing and knowledgeable guides ensure you won’t feel rushed, and the picturesque stops deliver plenty of photo opportunities.

While wine isn’t the main focus, the tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Gran Canaria’s agricultural richness, pairing scenic views with flavorful tastings. It’s best suited for foodies, culture lovers, and those wanting a relaxed day of exploration without extensive walking or complicated logistics. If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized way to see the north of the island and learn about its produce, this tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from Las Palmas City, making it convenient to start your day without extra stress.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 7 hours, with a start time of 9:30 am, allowing for a full day of sightseeing and tasting.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers guide services, hotel pickup, entrance fees, and the coffee tasting. Lunch is optional and paid on the spot.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 6 years old, making it suitable for families.

Is there a focus on wine tasting?
No, wine isn’t the main focus; the tour emphasizes coffee, local produce, and scenic villages.

Can I buy food or drinks during the stops?
Yes, especially at Puerto de las Nieves, where you can choose from local eateries for lunch or snacks.

How much walking is involved?
Most stops involve walking around small towns and estates; the pace is relaxed and suitable for most fitness levels.

Is the coffee tasting at multiple locations?
No, the tasting is limited to the La Laja estate, which is part of the Agaete visit.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of cultural storytelling, scenic stops, and the chance to taste the island’s only coffee makes it stand out.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture seeker, or just looking to enjoy the scenic north of Gran Canaria, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the island’s authentic flavors and sights.