No. 33 - Its Gran Canaria Magazine
Rutas, recomendaciones y noticias de Gran Canaria. Routes, tips and news about Gran Canaria.
Rutas, recomendaciones y noticias de Gran Canaria.
Routes, tips and news about Gran Canaria.
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22<br />
GET TO KNOW GRAN CANARIA I CONOCE GRAN CANARIA EDICIÓN <strong>33</strong><br />
The Marquesa de Arucas Garden<br />
The hidden beauty of <strong>Gran</strong> <strong>Canaria</strong><br />
Nestling in the heart of the municipality of Arucas<br />
is an authentic natural treasure that shines<br />
like a beacon all around: the Marquesa de Arucas<br />
Garden. This idyllic corner stands as a hidden<br />
gem on the island of <strong>Gran</strong> <strong>Canaria</strong>, a place where<br />
history blends with exuberant botanical beauty.<br />
The Marquesa de Arucas Botanical Garden has<br />
its roots firmly set in 1880, when the first Marquis<br />
of Arucas embarked on a fascinating botanical<br />
odyssey. During his extensive travels, this visionary<br />
collector began to gather a varied range of<br />
plant species, some native to <strong>Gran</strong> <strong>Canaria</strong> and<br />
others from distant lands. The purpose was clear:<br />
to decorate the gardens of his summer palace<br />
with botanical riches from all over the world. Taking<br />
full advantage of the island's benign climate,<br />
the garden quickly became a magical refuge for<br />
nature lovers.<br />
The successive Marquises of Arucas then carried<br />
on this work over the generations, expanding<br />
the garden until it reached the impressive figure<br />
of 500 catalogued plant species that it holds<br />
today. The doors of this enclave were opened to<br />
the public in 1985, with guided tours revealing its<br />
undeniable charm. The winding romantic-style<br />
paths invite visitors to take a relaxing stroll, while<br />
the Palacete, the family's former summer residence,<br />
emerges majestically, with its façade covered<br />
in the characteristic basalt stone, known as<br />
"blue stone" in Arucas. In the blink of an eye, the<br />
Marquesa de Arucas Garden became an essential<br />
destination for keen explorers of <strong>Gran</strong> <strong>Canaria</strong>.<br />
The natural beauty of the Marquesa de Arucas<br />
Garden is simply captivating. <strong>Its</strong> grounds are<br />
home to a rich variety of plants and flowers from<br />
all corners of the globe, which coexist in perfect<br />
harmony, creating a unique and unrivalled<br />
atmosphere. The many botanical highlights include<br />
majestic dragon trees, elegant palm trees,<br />
splendid bougainvillea, delicate hydrangeas, romantic<br />
roses and fragrant hyacinths. In addition,<br />
the garden is home to an abundance of tropical<br />
species such as orchids, bromeliads and coconut<br />
palms. This makes for a plant paradise to be enjoyed<br />
in the company of a curious community of<br />
peacocks, who roam freely through the garden's<br />
many twists and turns.<br />
The Garden opens out into multiple areas, each<br />
with its own unique character and charm. The<br />
stunning epicentre is the central lake, surrounded<br />
by a lush symphony of plants and flowers,<br />
making it the ideal place for quiet and unforgettable<br />
strolls. <strong>No</strong> less impressive is the imposing<br />
glass marquee, which has been the setting for<br />
grandiose celebrations and events, surrounded<br />
by corridors flanked by greenery, which arouse<br />
romance and warmth. The setting is indeed so<br />
magical that it has served as the backdrop for<br />
countless Hollywood productions, cementing its<br />
reputation as a unique and sublime venue.<br />
In short, the Marquesa de Arucas Garden is an oasis<br />
of natural beauty and serenity that sits snugly<br />
in <strong>Gran</strong> <strong>Canaria</strong>, a jewel that combines history,<br />
biodiversity and elegance in a single location.<br />
Discovering its secrets provides an unforgettable<br />
journey for all those who seek harmony with nature<br />
and a respite from their daily routines.<br />
How to get there:<br />
Main Road from Arucas to Bañaderos,<br />
km 0.5 Arucas - Tel. 928604486<br />
Opening hours: Monday to Friday<br />
from 09.00 to 18.00.<br />
Saturdays from 09.00 to 18.00, except for<br />
private functions.<br />
Please call first to confirm.<br />
Prices: Adults: €6.00 I Children from<br />
5 to 12 years: €3.00