Arucas

Arucas is famous above all for its church: the neo-Gothic Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, built from dark volcanic basalt over the course of decades and nicknamed the Cathedral of Arucas for good reason. Its soaring towers are visible from miles away. The interior houses Italian sculptures, Flemish paintings, and stained-glass windows from Paris — it's absolutely worth setting aside a long visit. The town center around the church is a pleasure, with covered markets, shops, and characterful restaurants.

Another renowned destination is the Arehucas rum distillery, which has been producing rum since 1884: it offers guided tours and a tasting room. It pairs naturally with a stroll through the banana plantations you'll see along the roads heading inland. The botanical garden of the Marquesa de Arucas adds a leafy detour on the edge of town.

Arucas makes an excellent first stop on a northern loop — well connected by road, with good fuel and services. Arrive via the GC-330 from Firgas for a more scenic approach through the green ravines, or use it as a launch point before climbing inland along the long and beautiful GC-21.