No. 32 - Its Gran Canaria Magazine

26
GET TO KNOW GRAN CANARIA I CONOCE GRAN CANARIA EDICIÓN 32
The Marquesa de Arucas Garden
The hidden beauty of Gran Canaria
Nestling in the heart of the municipality of Arucas
is an authentic natural treasure that shines
like a beacon all around: the Marquesa de Arucas
Garden. This idyllic corner stands as a hidden
gem on the island of Gran Canaria, a place where
history blends with exuberant botanical beauty.
The Marquesa de Arucas Botanical Garden has
its roots firmly set in 1880, when the first Marquis
of Arucas embarked on a fascinating botanical
odyssey. During his extensive travels, this visionary
collector began to gather a varied range of
plant species, some native to Gran Canaria and
others from distant lands. The purpose was clear:
to decorate the gardens of his summer palace
with botanical riches from all over the world. Taking
full advantage of the island's benign climate,
the garden quickly became a magical refuge for
nature lovers.
The successive Marquises of Arucas then carried
on this work over the generations, expanding
the garden until it reached the impressive figure
of 500 catalogued plant species that it holds
today. The doors of this enclave were opened to
the public in 1985, with guided tours revealing its
undeniable charm. The winding romantic-style
paths invite visitors to take a relaxing stroll, while
the Palacete, the family's former summer residence,
emerges majestically, with its façade covered
in the characteristic basalt stone, known as
"blue stone" in Arucas. In the blink of an eye, the
Marquesa de Arucas Garden became an essential
destination for keen explorers of Gran Canaria.
The natural beauty of the Marquesa de Arucas
Garden is simply captivating. Its grounds are
home to a rich variety of plants and flowers from
all corners of the globe, which coexist in perfect
harmony, creating a unique and unrivalled
atmosphere. The many botanical highlights include
majestic dragon trees, elegant palm trees,
splendid bougainvillea, delicate hydrangeas, romantic
roses and fragrant hyacinths. In addition,
the garden is home to an abundance of tropical
species such as orchids, bromeliads and coconut
palms. This makes for a plant paradise to be enjoyed
in the company of a curious community of
peacocks, who roam freely through the garden's
many twists and turns.
The Garden opens out into multiple areas, each
with its own unique character and charm. The
stunning epicentre is the central lake, surrounded
by a lush symphony of plants and flowers,
making it the ideal place for quiet and unforgettable
strolls. No less impressive is the imposing
glass marquee, which has been the setting for
grandiose celebrations and events, surrounded
by corridors flanked by greenery, which arouse
romance and warmth. The setting is indeed so
magical that it has served as the backdrop for
countless Hollywood productions, cementing its
reputation as a unique and sublime venue.
In short, the Marquesa de Arucas Garden is an oasis
of natural beauty and serenity that sits snugly
in Gran Canaria, a jewel that combines history,
biodiversity and elegance in a single location.
Discovering its secrets provides an unforgettable
journey for all those who seek harmony with nature
and a respite from their daily routines.
How to get there:
Main Road from Arucas to Bañaderos,
km 0.5 Arucas - Tel. 928604486
Opening hours: Monday to Friday
from 09.00 to 18.00.
Saturdays from 09.00 to 18.00, except for
private functions.
Please call first to confirm.
Prices: Adults: €6.00 I Children from
5 to 12 years: €3.00