No. 33 - Its Gran Canaria Magazine

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GET TO KNOW GRAN CANARIA I CONOCE GRAN CANARIA EDICIÓN 33
Moya: from the coast to the summit
For a land surface area that covers barely 32
square kilometres, the municipality of Moya on
the island of Gran Canaria packs in a surprising
diversity of natural and cultural resources. The
territory stretches all the way from the coast up
to the heights of the island's summit, showcasing
the different environments and ecosystems
of the north of Gran Canaria. These range from
the coastline with its rich seabed to the green
palm groves and banana plantations in the
mid-altitude hills, passing through imposing ravines.
We will embark on a short route that takes
in stops at El Roque, La Montañeta, the historic
centre of Moya and Fontanales, in other words,
a route that takes us from the sea to the peaks
of Gran Canaria, where the black of the lava and
the greenery of the meadows provide a stunning
blend.
El Roque: a journey in time
El Roque
El Roque, anchored firmly in a time when every
inch of fertile land was carefully worked and
houses were built in seemingly inaccessible
places, immerses you in a unique physical and
psychological experience alongside the roar of
the ocean. Walking through its narrow streets,
accompanied by the roar of the waves hitting
the rocks, provides a sense of the incomparable
power of the sea. Witnessing a sunset from this
place, in an unparalleled foreground, is a gift of
nature.
La Montañeta de Moya: a natural and historical
treasure
La Montañeta de Moya is a natural treasure that
captivates visitors. This small mountain, standing at
500 metres altitude, offers breathtaking views of the
island, together with a unique natural environment
and a rich history dating back to the ancient Canarian
settlers. To reach this jewel of northern Gran Canaria,
follow the GC-75 road to the Mirador de Montaña
Alta viewpoint and access the summit. Here,
hiking becomes an immersive experience amidst
lush vegetation that borders the path on either side.
The top of the Montañeta de Moya offers breathtaking
panoramic views of the island, from the sea in
the north to the centre of Gran Canaria and the city
of Las Palmas to the south. On clear days, you can
even make out the neighbouring islands of Tenerife
and Fuerteventura. Furthermore, this mountain
is home to a rich history dating back to the island's
ancient inhabitants, with impressive natural caves
that served as a dwelling place for the Canary Islanders
before the arrival of the European conquerors.
The remains of houses and hollows carved out
of the rock bear witness to the life of those ancient
inhabitants.
The historic town centre of Moya
The town centre of Moya is a truly historical treasure
that whisks you back to the archipelago’s past.
El casco histórico de Moya
The cobbled streets and whitewashed houses
represent Canarian architecture at its best. Strolling
through these narrow streets, you will experience
the sensation of having travelled back in
time as you come to the church of Our Lady of
La Candelaria, a historical landmark in the community.
Cobbled squares and charming corners
invite you to explore the authenticity of Moya,
where local festivities such as the Fiesta of Our
Lady of La Candelaria and cultural events bring
the old town alive with music, dance and Canarian
traditions.
Fontanales: a truly rural charm
Our journey today ends in Fontanales, an example
of Canarian rural architecture and a haven of
peace in a mountainous environment. Its whitewashed
houses and gabled roofs evoke the authenticity
of island life. Set in beautiful natural
surroundings, Fontanales offers the opportunity
to explore trails winding through Canarian pine
trees and fruit trees. The Doramas Natural Park is
a paradise of biodiversity that awaits those with
a thirst for nature. Canarian gastronomy, cultural
richness and local festivities add a special touch
to this unique experience.
Moya, from the coast to the summit, gives visitors
the opportunity to explore the many facets
of Gran Canaria, a place full of history, nature and
authenticity that is well worth discovering.