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This is a beautiful example of Canarian architecture, built around two patios overlooked by fine wooden balconies on the upper level. The exterior of the building is itself something of a work of art, with showy plateresque (silversmith-like) elements mixing in original fashion such as brown-stained balconies typical of the island.
Although it's called Columbus' House (it's possible he stayed here once when he was presenting his credentials to the governor), most of what you see was the residence of Las Palmas' early governors. Inside, it's a ragbag collection ranging from old sea-charts to Pre-Columbian artefacts, with some model ships thrown in as well.
Calle de Colón
tel info 928 31 23 73
fax info 928 33 11 56
| full | Euro free |
Covering 10% of La Gomera's surface, this 4000-hectare (9884-acre) park forms a knot in the island's centre and is a haven for some of the planet's most ancient forest. Over 400 species of flora, including its famous laurel, can be found here. Most trails running through the park were once used by the Gomeros. The majority of the hikes are relatively light, and you can get a solid view of the landscape without venturing too far.
Many independent visitors make for Alto de Garajonay (1487m/4879ft), the island's tallest peak. From here, clouds permitting, you can see the islands of Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro and sometimes even Gran Canaria. Another favourite stop is La Laguna Grande, just off the highway and ideal for picnics. The 'laguna' refers to a barren circle of land - now used as a recreational area - that has always held an air of mystery. Islanders say it's a mystical place and that witches once practised here.
The Juego de Bolas Visitors Centre on La Palmita-Agulo Hwy is actually located well outside the park and is hard to get to unless you arrive from the north. Nevertheless, it's worth the journey - there are piles of information on the park, including a very informative guidebook, and the island in general.
tel info 922 80 09 93
bus from San Sebastián to Valle de Gran Rey
In the north of Tenerife's national park rises a great cone that forms the Pico del Teide, the highest mountain in Spain. To the south are the cañadas, a series of plains stretching away inside the old crater from the foot of Teide. It's possible to climb the mountain, but it's challenging and can get mighty cold in winter, and relentlessly hot in summer. And be warned: there ain't much oxygen up there.
Guided walks are offered by park staff. If you'd prefer a less strenuous experience, there's the Teleférico (cable car), which will get you to the top in about eight minutes.
tel info 922 69 40 38
bus 342
car
| full | Euro 20.00 |
| child | Euro 14.00 |
Whatever you're after, you'll probably find it here. Partygoers can absorb the urban buzz of the capital Las Palmas or the sun-and-sangria of the southern resorts, while nature lovers can enjoy the 'Himalayan' peaks of the centre or the obvious pleasures of the white-sand beaches.
The Catedral de Santa Ana is Las Palams' main place of worship and took 350 years to complete. Nearby, the Museo Diocesano, set on two levels around the Patio de los Naranjos, contains the standard collection of religious art and memorabilia, including old manuscripts and wooden sculptures.
The Casa-Museo de Colón is a gorgeous example of Canarian architecture, with fine wooden balconies overlooking two patios. Although it's called Columbus' house, it's uncertain whether he stayed there, and most of what you see is the residence of early governors. Inside is an odd assortment of navigational charts and pre-Colombian artefacts brought back from Latin America.
The Museo Canario is the city's main museum, dedicated to chronicling Gran Canaria's pre-conquest history. It boasts the world's largest collection of Cro-Magnon skulls and displays Guanche implements and a collection of pottery. The Centro Atlantico de Arte Moderno is the city's main museum of modern art.
This is the party part of the Canaries, sun-starved snowbirds fly south for year-round sun, swimming, sex and such. From lager louts to Swedish sun-worshippers, they're all here within a couple of kilometres of suntan oil-soaked sand and tour operator-infested city blocks.
When you tire of the beach scene, try a theme parks or three: Palmitos Park, a subtropical oasis crammed with exotic flora and 1500 species of birds; Mundo Aborigen, with about 100 model Guanches posed to look how the real thing used to; or Sioux City, with good and bad guys shootin' each other up.
The dunes at Maspalomas are a protected park and are probably one of the best parts of the beach. That doesn't stem the tide of the great unclad from the nearby nudist beach wandering through after a hard bake.
At the heart of Playa del Inglés is Yumbo Centrum, a four-level shopping jungle with international food, traditional European breakfasts and all sorts of goods on sale. Around the block you will find banks, doctors, supermarkets, phone and fax offices and laundrettes. By night the area transforms into the gay holiday capital of Europe, with gay bars, drag shows, saunas and sex shops doing a roaring trade.
