Market in San Fernando, San Bartolomé, and the Barranco de Guayadeque

Today was market day in San Fernando—we definitely didn’t want to miss that.

This market is located on the outskirts of town and is absolutely huge. Hundreds of stalls sell all kinds of goods. From souvenirs to clothes, shoes, cosmetics, cigars—whatever your heart desires, you’ll find it here.

We strolled through the colourful hustle and bustle for almost two hours and, as always, bought far more than we actually needed.

Then it was time to head to our next destination—San Bartolomé de Tirajana. Even the journey to this mountain village is spectacular. The road winds through the wild mountain landscape on narrow lanes.

The village itself lies picturesquely in a basin, surrounded by high mountains. The whitewashed houses romantically line the cobbled paths.

We strolled leisurely through the village and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.

On the main square, we treated ourselves to a café con leche at a bar.

The journey continued through the spectacular mountain scenery along a road that, even after many holidays on the island, was new to me.

Eventually, after many bends, we reached Agüimes. Since we had already explored the village a few days earlier, we drove past it this time and into the Barranco de Guayadeque. This long, narrow gorge is my absolute favourite place on the island.

The landscape is unique. A narrow road winds through the valley, and towering rocks stretch towards the sky on both sides. Time and again, you see the famous cave dwellings—some still inhabited, others converted into holiday homes.

After just a few kilometres, you reach a romantic little cave restaurant where excellent food is served.

As always, we stopped there again—a highlight of every Gran Canaria trip.

Since it was Sunday, there was even a barbecue. Various kinds of meat were offered, and of course, the famous Canarian blood sausage was a must.

It tastes much sweeter than the one at home.

Fresh salad was served alongside it, and once again the famous papas arrugadas with mojo—a feast!

After lunch we continued further into the gorge. At the end of the road, there’s another cave restaurant, which extends deep into the mountain through winding passageways. We’ve never eaten there—prices are significantly higher than in the other restaurant—but it’s definitely worth a visit.

Next to the restaurant, a narrow hiking trail leads past several cave dwellings, some of which have been turned into accommodations for individual travellers.

I’d love to spend a night there one day.

There’s even a souvenir shop located in a former cave. This gives you a good impression of what life in such a cave might feel like.

Many of the caves are still inhabited today. One big advantage: there’s no need for air conditioning—caves always maintain a pleasant temperature.

The hiking trail eventually led us to a cave bar, where we treated ourselves to another café con leche before making our way back.

We ended the evening comfortably once again at the local festival in Arguineguín.