Maspalomas: Discover the Lighthouse, Dunes and Cultural Heritage
Accommodation in Maspalomas
When choosing Maspalomas as your destination, several different interests come together: the historic Faro de Maspalomas, the archaeological site of Punta Mujeres, a protected natural area and activities by the sea. Before searching for a hotel, you can consider whether cultural heritage, nature, walks or water sports will be the main focus of your stay. The following places offer specific points of reference.
Cultural heritage at the Faro and Punta Mujeres
The Faro de Maspalomas gave its first light signal on 1 February 1890. Its tower is 54.70 metres high. On 12 April 2005, the Faro was declared a monument and designated a Bien de Interés Cultural. The two dates distinguish the historic start of the lighthouse’s operation from its later recognition under heritage-protection law.
Around 150 metres west of the Faro, towards Playa de las Meloneras, lies the archaeological site of Punta Mujeres. An archaeological intervention in 2000–2001 uncovered the remains of six domestic structures there. Punta Mujeres is an example of the coastal settlements found along large parts of Gran Canaria’s coastline. The findings identify a specific archaeological site, while the comparison with other coastal settlements also places it in a wider regional context.
Dune landscape and protected area
The Reserva Natural Especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas covers 403.9 hectares within the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. The protected area includes the brackish-water lagoon ecosystem of Charca de Maspalomas, the dune system and the palm grove. The protected area therefore encompasses several different landscape features, not just sand dunes.
When fully developed, the dunes can reach 15 to 25 metres in height and around 200 metres in width. The trade winds carry sand inland from the coast at Playa del Inglés, moving it 2 to 5 metres per year. The height and width describe the possible form of mature dunes, while the annual rate measures the movement of the sand.
Parque Tony Gallardo lies within the boundaries of the protected area. The park is a work by Tony Gallardo, a Canarian sculptor and professor at a higher art institute. It provides a refuge for numerous invertebrate and bird species. The reserve thus brings together landscape, a named work of art and ecological significance.
Walks and water sports
There are marked paths for walking in the Reserva Natural Especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas; visitors must stay on them and may not leave them. This rule is one of the specific visitor requirements in the protected area.
Playa de Maspalomas is known for its dunes and iconic lighthouse. You can walk along the seafront there. Windsurfing, sailing, diving and water skiing are offered or practised in Maspalomas. This gives you a choice between a walk along the shore and various water sports as different ways to enjoy the sea.
Getting to Faro de Maspalomas
From the capital, travel south towards the Faro via the GC-1. After 56 kilometres, take exit 46 for Avenida Touroperador Tui. Then continue for about five kilometres along this avenue and Avenida Cristóbal Colón to Plaza del Faro de Maspalomas. Before setting off, check locally for any possible road changes along the route.
Discover more destinations: Playa Del Ingles, Pasito Blanco, Fátaga, Playa Del Águila, Castillo Del Romenral, El Tablero, Los Cercados, San Agustin.
For the broader travel overview: San Bartolomé De Tirajana.
