Coffee & Wine: North Route of Gran Canaria Tour

Exploring Gran Canaria’s North Route: Coffee, Wine, and Authentic Flavors

This guided tour of Gran Canaria’s northern regions offers a well-rounded dive into the island’s acclaimed produce, scenic villages, and local culture. With a mix of cultural sights, farms, and tasting experiences, it’s designed to give travelers a taste of what makes this part of the island so special. The tour is about seven hours long, including convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an accessible way to cover multiple highlights in a single day.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the knowledgeable guidance—especially when it comes to understanding the island’s agricultural history and its current thriving scene. Plus, the visit to La Laja estate and the coffee tasting at Bodega Los Berrazales stands out as a rare opportunity to see the island’s only coffee producers in action.

That said, a potential caveat is the limited focus on coffee and wine tasting—some reviews suggest that the wine aspect isn’t as prominent or well-covered as expected. Also, lunch is not included, so travelers should budget extra time and money for that part of the day.

This tour suits those who are curious about local food, culture, and scenic villages, especially if you’re interested in tasting Gran Canaria’s unique produce and learning from a friendly, knowledgeable guide. It’s great for casual explorers, wine and coffee lovers, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of the northern island in a manageable, well-organized package.

Key Points

• Cultural and scenic highlights: Visits to Arucas, Firgas, and Puerto de las Nieves reveal charming villages and stunning coastal views.
• Local produce focus: The tour emphasizes Gran Canaria’s coffee, cheese, wine, and fruit, showcasing the island’s agricultural richness.
• Expert guides: Guides like Francisco are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.
• Taste and see: Enjoy a coffee tasting at the island’s only coffee estate and explore local markets and farms.
• Flexible logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off save hassle, and the itinerary is designed to maximize your time, covering plenty of sights in 7 hours.
• Limited lunch options: While the tour doesn’t include a meal, there are opportunities to try local dishes at your own expense, adding to the authentic experience.

A Detailed Look at the North Route Experience

Starting Point: Arucas – The Neo-Gothic Charm and Banana Fields

Your day begins with a drive north to Arucas, a small town famous for its lush banana plantations and historic architecture. The standout here is the neo-Gothic San Juan Bautista church, an impressive sight that dominates the town’s skyline. As reviewers note, wandering through the old town offers a glimpse into local life and architecture.

While there’s no charge to visit, what makes this stop valuable is the vibe of strolling through a town that balances agricultural activity with historical charm. Daniela_N described it as “a day of wonders,” appreciating the blend of nature, flowers, and cultural sights.

Firgas – Water and Scenic Charm

Next, you’ll visit Firgas, a tiny village famed for its water feature—a 30-meter waterfall fountain central to its streets. The village’s nickname, “the municipality of water,” hints at its lush surroundings. Here, the focus is on relaxation and scenery, perfect for snapping photos of the cascading water and colorful streets.

This stop, also free, offers a peaceful break and a good chance to see authentic village life. It’s the kind of place where you can soak in the quiet beauty away from tourist crowds.

Santa Maria de Guia de Gran Canaria – Cheese and Local Flavors

The journey continues to Guía, a village known for its award-winning cheeses. While tasting is optional and paid separately, many visitors find the cheese a delightful surprise. It’s an excellent chance to sample some authentic local flavors and get a sense of rural life on the island.

Tara_C noted that the guide, Francisco, made the experience special by sharing insights into local culinary traditions, making the visit more than just a photo stop.

Agaete – Coffee, Fruits, and Agricultural Riches

Arguably the highlight of the trip is Agaete, a fertile area bursting with tropical fruits, vegetables, and coffee plantations. Here, you’ll visit La Laja estate and Bodega Los Berrazales, the island’s only coffee producers, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at coffee cultivation and a tasting to savor the fresh flavors.

Reviewers like Daniela_N loved the smell of the area—the aromas of coffee, fruits, and vineyards are “an explosion” for the senses. The guided tour of the estate emphasizes the island’s dedication to producing quality coffee despite its subtropical climate, making this a unique experience.

The 1.5-hour visit is free of charge, but the coffee tasting and estate tour add depth and authenticity to your understanding of local agriculture.

Puerto de las Nieves – Coastal Charm and Leisure

Your last stop is the picturesque Puerto de las Nieves, a lively fishing village with colorful boats and fresh seafood stalls. Here, you’ll have about 90 minutes to grab lunch (not included in the tour fee) or just explore at your own pace.

Many travelers appreciate this laid-back ending, enjoying the sea breeze and ocean views. Reviews mention that this free time allows for a relaxed end to the day, whether for a leisurely stroll or a quick seafood snack.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes professional guides fluent in Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling. Pickup from Las Palmas city makes it easy to join without extra hassle, and the small group size (max 30 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience.

The highlight is the coffee tasting at Bodega Los Berrazales, which many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the day. While wine is mentioned, it seems more of a secondary focus—some travelers noted that the wine aspect wasn’t as prominent as expected, and the tasting wasn’t included or emphasized as a main feature.

Lunch is not included, but local eateries near Puerto de las Nieves offer a variety of options, from casual tapas to seafood—perfect for sampling the island’s fresh offerings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water—outdoor activity and sun exposure are parts of the experience.
• Comfortable clothing is recommended, especially if you plan to walk around villages or estates.
• The tour operates from 9:30 am, so arriving a little earlier helps ensure a smooth start.
• The minimal age requirement (6 years old) makes it a family-friendly outing.
• Expect the tour to last around 7 hours, giving enough time to appreciate each stop without feeling rushed.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer, Brad_R, pointed out that the tour isn’t heavily focused on wine tasting, which might surprise those expecting a wine-centric experience. Transparency about what’s included could help set expectations. Yet, many still found the estate visit and the scenic stops worthwhile.

Tara_C praised guide Francisco for his enthusiasm and knowledge, especially regarding local food and culture. Daniela_N’s description of the day as “a little best of everything” underscores the varied appeal of the tour—nature, food, ocean, and local history.

Final Thoughts

This Coffee & Wine North Route tour offers a delightful sampler of Gran Canaria’s countryside, gastronomy, and coastal charm. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a manageable, guided experience that combines scenic villages, agricultural visits, and tasting opportunities. While it’s not a dedicated wine or coffee tasting tour, the inclusion of the estate visit and local produce adds genuine authenticity and value.

The tour’s friendly guides, scenic stops, and relaxed pace make it suitable for a wide range of travelers—families, couples, or those simply eager to taste the island’s flavors without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in local culture, food, and beautiful landscapes, offering a balanced look at Gran Canaria’s northern treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Las Palmas city, making it convenient to join without extra stress.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

Are drinks or food included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options to buy meals locally. The tour includes a coffee tasting, but wine is a secondary feature and not a main focus.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, water, and camera. Some stops involve walking, so wear suitable footwear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and up can participate, making it family-friendly.

How many people are in the group?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, providing a more personal experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 30 days ahead, especially during peak travel seasons.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many say the visit to La Laja estate and the coffee tasting at Bodega Los Berrazales are the most memorable parts, offering insight into the island’s unique agricultural scene.

To sum it up, the Coffee & Wine North Route of Gran Canaria is a thoughtfully curated excursion that balances scenic beauty with culinary discovery. Perfect for curious travelers eager to learn about local produce and enjoy authentic village atmospheres. While it might not satisfy hardcore wine or coffee enthusiasts expecting extensive tastings, its genuine charm and friendly guides make it a worthwhile addition to any Gran Canaria itinerary.