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Mountain · Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Roque Nublo
Monolith of volcanic rock about 80 meters high on the highlands of Gran Canaria, at 1,813 meters altitude, symbol of the island, reached by a short trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Roque Nublo
Roque Nublo is a monolith of volcanic rock that rises about 80 meters above a plateau in the center of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of Tejeda, reaching approximately 1,813 meters in altitude. It is what remained of an ancient eruption, sculpted by erosion over millions of years, and has become a symbol of the island.
For the ancient Canarians the rock was a sacred place. Today it is part of a natural monument within the area of the island declared a Biosphere Reserve, and the surrounding landscape, the Sacred Mountains, includes archaeological sites. Beside Roque Nublo are other formations such as El Fraile and La Rana.
A trail of about 1.5 km departs from the La Goleta parking area and climbs through pine forests and rocks to the base of the monolith in around 30 to 45 minutes. From the plateau you can see the caldera of Tejeda, Roque Bentayga and, on clear days, the Teide of Tenerife on the horizon above the sea of clouds.
The parking area is small and fills early, and at certain times vehicle access is often controlled.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1h30 to 2 hours, with the trail.
Best time
Early in the morning, with a clear sky and parking spaces available, or in the late afternoon for the sunset with the Teide in the background. In winter it is cold and there may be ice.
How to get there
It is about 35 km from Las Palmas, roughly a 1-hour drive on mountain roads, passing through Tejeda. The trail starts from the La Goleta parking area on road GC-600. There are buses to Tejeda, with limited departures.
Tip
Arrive early and wear shoes with good soles. Bring a jacket, water, and a flashlight if you go at sunset. Coordinate with the village of Tejeda and with Pico de las Nieves, the island's highest point.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Roque Nublo
How high is Roque Nublo?
The monolith is about 80 meters high, and the summit is at roughly 1,813 meters above sea level.
Is the trail to Roque Nublo difficult?
It's short, about 1.5 km, with a moderate ascent and loose rocks. It takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes.
Can you see Teide from Roque Nublo?
On clear days, yes, on the horizon above the sea of clouds.