ExploGC

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a city that never ceases to surprise us. While many know it for its vibrant shopping streets, golden beaches, and historic Vegueta district, there’s another gem nestled among the cobbled lanes that offers a different kind of adventure—one that takes you back in time, into the mind and life of one of Spain’s greatest writers. We’re talking about the Casa-Museo Pérez Galdós, and today we want to take you on the journey we experienced as we stepped into the very house where Benito Pérez Galdós was born. A House with a Soul The museum is located in the heart of the old town, on Calle Cano, just a short walk from the bustling Triana district. From the moment we arrived, we felt the atmosphere shift—there was a peaceful reverence in the air, as if the spirit of Galdós still lingered among the walls of his childhood home. As we stepped through the wooden doors, it was like crossing into another century. The house has been beautifully preserved and res...

Las Palmas, the bustling capital of Gran Canaria, is a city where colonial charm and modern energy coexist effortlessly. Nestled in the heart of the historic district of Vegueta lies a cultural gem that has drawn in curious travelers, history buffs, and wanderers for decades – Casa de Colón, or Columbus House. Recently, Auke and Miranda decided to step back in time and explore this beautiful museum, and what they discovered left them both inspired and in awe. A Walk Through Time in Vegueta The day began with the cobblestone streets of Vegueta whispering stories of the past. As they strolled through this enchanting neighborhood, Auke pointed out the colorful colonial buildings, while Miranda admired the ornate balconies and charming plazas. The couple had always been fascinated by history, especially the story of exploration and discovery. So naturally, Casa de Colón was high on their list. When they arrived, the building itself was a sight to behold. With its iconic carved ...

Today was one of those days that remind us why we love Gran Canaria so deeply — where nature, history, and good company blend into a perfect adventure. The ExploGC team, Auke and Miranda, joined by their friends Ralf and Susanne, set out to explore one of the lesser-known gems of the island: Cueva Ventanas del Cañizo and the ancient water channels of la Acequia de los Acueductos, hidden deep within the heart of Barranco de Fataga. As we arrived at the starting point of the trail, the warm morning sun painted golden light across the canyon walls. The landscape was already buzzing with life — birds chirping from the cliffs, soft breezes rustling through the leaves, and the occasional echo of distant goats climbing steep rocky slopes. This is the kind of place where you feel time slow down, inviting you to look closer, breathe deeper, and walk with wonder. Fortunately, it wasn’t hard to keep track of our trail leader — Auke stood out like a flame against the rugged earth, prou...

Today marked another chapter in our growing love for the unexpected—our second and third journeys with the Randonautica app. The premise is simple yet strangely profound: set your intention, generate a random coordinate, and just go. But what happens next is what keeps us coming back. It’s more than a walk—it’s an experience laced with mystery and surprise. Our second adventure began in a quiet area, not far from where we usually go, yet it led us somewhere completely unfamiliar. The app gave us a point on top of a hill. As we made our way up, the world shifted.  At the end of that path, we found a lone, rusted bench overlooking a view over the beach all the way to the sanddunes that felt like it belonged only to us in that moment. There’s something magical about walking where no normal road leads you. It’s like being guided by instinct and randomness at the same time. There was no big discovery on that trip—no treasure, no dramatic reveal. But there was the thrill. The...

Today was one of those picture-perfect days in the south of Gran Canaria – the kind of day that reminds you why this island is such a gem. The sun was shining high in a cloudless blue sky, casting a golden warmth over the landscape, and a soft breeze whispered through the palm trees. It was the perfect time for a new adventure with ExploGC. Auke and Miranda packed their camera gear and set out to discover a lesser-known but truly special corner of Maspalomas: the Parque Botánico de Maspalomas. Tucked away not far from the bustling tourist zones, this botanical park is a peaceful oasis, filled with the lush colors and calming sounds of nature. What makes this spot even more appealing is that it’s completely free to enter – no tickets, no fuss. Open from Monday to Friday between 10:00 and 18:00, the park welcomes locals and visitors alike to take a leisurely walk among its vibrant plant life. As they stepped into the park, the calm atmosphere wrapped around them like a soft b...

A Day with the Ancients – Exploring Cenobio de Valerón and Cueva de Pintada Today was one of those days that leaves you both awestruck and deeply connected to the roots of Gran Canaria. Alongside Auke and Miranda, we had the pleasure of venturing out with our dear friend Yvette to uncover more of the island’s fascinating aboriginal history. Our first destination: the legendary Cenobio de Valerón. Located in the northern municipality of Santa María de Guía, Cenobio de Valerón is not just a site—it’s a journey back in time. As we approached the entrance, the rugged terrain and cliffs of the north surrounded us in a dramatic embrace. This monumental collective granary, carved directly into the volcanic rock, is estimated to have been built more than 800 years ago by the ancient Canarios—long before the Spanish conquest. Despite its name, “Cenobio” (which implies a monastic origin), this place wasn’t a monastery. It was a communal granary, used to store grains, seeds, and other...

Today, we’re in Santa Lucía de Tirajana, at the Museo de la Zafra, where we’re diving into the agricultural history of Gran Canaria!" This museum tells the story of the island’s farming traditions, especially the tomato industry, which was a massive part of Gran Canaria’s economy for decades. The first thing you notice when you step inside is how well-preserved everything is. These old farming tools and black-and-white photos really take you back in time!.  It’s fascinating how agriculture shaped life here. Tomatoes, especially, played a huge role in the local economy, and this museum does an amazing job showing how farmers cultivated them. The museum explains how tomatoes became a major export in the early 20th century. Farmers had to adapt to the island’s volcanic soil and unique climate to grow them successfully. This museum isn’t just about agriculture—it’s about the hardworking people who built the island’s economy with their dedication to the land. Walking throug...