San Mateo, Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

San Mateo

The weekly markets are filled with fresh locally grown products, arts and crafts, popular with tourists and locals alike. Located 22 km south west of the capital.

Environment

The small town of La Vega de San Mateo is surrounded by green hills, farmland and rural villages.

The capital city of Las Palmas is just 25km away where you can explore the museums and parks of the old quarter, relax on the beautiful beaches and enjoy water-sports and boat or fishing trips from the marina.

Things to Do

In the heart of the old quarter you will find the church and the bandstand in Santa Ana square, surrounded by traditional Canarian architecture. Between the main church and the sports centre, you can also spot the tiny Ermita de Lourdes and the monuments of the Digger and the Blacksmith.

A farmers market is held at La Vega de San Mateo every weekend where you can buy locally produced foods and crafts. The annual celebrations for the Fiesta of the Patron Saint Mathew take place in September.

Out and About

Head out in almost any direction for far reaching countryside scenery and winding mountain roads; admire panoramic views from El Montanon (6km) and Montana Cabreja (2km) or, from the highest peak on the island at Pico de las Nieves (16km).

For scenic views of the terraced slopes of the Mina Ravine follow the hiking trail from Las Lagunetas to Yedra.

Nearby Attractions

Nearby towns and villages include Santa Brigida and La Atalaya (7km east) where you can explore the leafy narrow streets of the historic centre and see the imposing church and the Caldera de Bandama.

The pretty town and weekend market at Teror is approx 18km. Climbing the Pico de Bandama will reward you with spectacular views over the crater, the vineyards, the north and east coasts of Gran Canaria and beyond. In Tejeda (21km west) there are several museums and information centres and it is also in close proximity to the Bentayga Archaeological Park and the Cuevas del Rey.