Mirador del Balcón, the best views of Gran Canaria
Mirador del Balcón, the best views of Gran Canaria
The viewpoint Mirador del Balcón in Gran Canaria is considered to have one of the best views of the island. The island's rugged terrain offers many vantage points from which to contemplate the landscape, such as the one we’re going to talk about in this article.
Also known as Andén Verde, it’s an impressive place where you can contemplate a real life movie-like postcard.
For this reason, and because it’s well worth a visit to this beautiful spot, we’ll tell you where it’s located, how to get there and what you can do at the Mirador del Balcón.
Where’s Mirador del Balcón located?
At the western end of Gran Canaria you’ll find one of the best-known panoramic views of the island, although it’s no less impressive for that matter. It’s located in the middle of the GC-200 road, which until a few years ago was the only road connecting Agaete with La Aldea de San Nicolás de Tolentino.
The viewpoint literally hangs over a mountain that drops vertically down to the immense blue of the Atlantic Ocean, from where you can see the “Tail of the Dragon” (or Cola de dragón): a wall of coastal cliffs with zigzagging peaks that resemble the back of this monstrous mythological creature.
Geographical location
- Latitude: 28.019435625246764 N
- Longitude: 15.785260731347464 W
- Altitude: 357 metres
How to get to the Mirador del Balcón in Gran Canaria
The only way to get to what is considered to be one of the best viewpoints on Gran Canaria is by car. The route will vary depending on your starting point.
- From La Aldea de San Nicolás (8 minutes): if you’re coming from La Aldea de San Nicolás, take the new GC-2 road towards Agaete/Gáldar and take the first exit on the winding GC-200 (Andén Verde) to the Mirador del Balcón.
- From Agaete (36 minutes): if you’re coming from Agaete you have to leave the village on the GC-200 in the direction of La Aldea. You then have to follow and connect with the GC-2 and then connect again with the GC-200 taking the exit towards Andén Verde.
Stargazing at the Astronomical Viewpoint of El Balcón
Did you know that Gran Canaria is considered a Starlight Destination by UNESCO thanks to the great clarity of its sky? It’s not surprising that this viewpoint has spectacular properties for stargazing: a secluded spot where the force of the wind and the sea challenge us to enjoy a unique moment.
With a breathtaking darkness and hanging from the cliff, this impressive setting will transport you with a glance to infinity and a little imagination to another planet. Don't miss the Polar star or boreal constellations such as Ursa Minor, Ursa Major or Cassiopeia.
The best views of Tenerife are on Gran Canaria
The volcanic nature of Gran Canaria has shaped a very particular relief and orography that makes it possible to enjoy incredible landscapes and postcard views from spectacular viewpoints such as this one.
The winding road leading to the viewpoint, with its beautiful rugged scenery and majestic surroundings, is an experience in itself. With the island of Tenerife in the background, with the imposing Teide dominating the scene.
Where to stay to enjoy Mirador del Balcón
If you want to experience first-hand the Mirador del Balcón in Gran Canaria, be sure to check out the accommodation available at VillaGranCanaria in the villages of Agaete and La Aldea de San Nicolás.
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