Puerto de Mogán is like a town that comes to life straight out of a postcard. The moment you set foot in it, you’re greeted by a visual spectacle. The whitewashed buildings, adorned with colorful window frames and flourishing flowers, paint a picture-perfect setting against the cerulean sea and the clear blue sky.
As we stroll through, the streets of Puerto de Mogán unfold like a canvas, bursting with life and vitality, with a riot of colors from the myriad flowers that adorn every corner.
It’s like stumbling into another world, where the sun seems to eternally shine, bathing everything in vibrant hues. Flowers in shades of red, purple, yellow and orange stand out against the pristine white walls, creating a colorful kaleidoscope under the relentless rays of the sun.
It’s interesting to learn that white houses are quite common in Spain. Not only do they look pretty, but they also help to keep the interiors cool during the hot summer months – a nice combination of form and function.
The canals, affectionately known as the “Venice of the Canary Islands,” wind their way through the heart of the town, creating a scenic network of waterways. Lined with picturesque bridges, colorful flowers, and charming waterfront cafes, they certainly added a romantic charm to our walk.
When we arrived at the port, we saw an abundance of boats bobbing in the harbor, a sign of prosperity of this coastal enclave.
Look how crystal-clear the water is! It allows you to see the underwater world in intricate detail. The gentle breeze from the ocean, the graceful glide of the fish, and the gentle clink of dishes all blend into a soothing sense of calm that washes over us like a whispered lullaby.
For those seeking a moment of respite, there’re ample opportunities to unwind. The waterfront is lined with an array of quaint shops, lively restaurants and even a market square!
The central square, Plaza de las Gañanías, is a bustling hub of activity in Puerto de Mogán, especially during festivals and cultural events when locals gather to dine and socialize. It has an elegant green pavilion as the focal point of this area. If you’re seeking shades from the sun, it’s a nice retreat where you can pause and enjoy the sights. With the serene ocean stretching ahead and the majestic mountains standing guard behind, isn’t it simply captivating?
Typically, many find that a few hours to half a day is sufficient to get a taste of this town. But you can easily spend a full day here, leisurely exploring the town’s charming streets, enjoying the views, and dining at a local restaurant. We found a quiet spot at the far end of the port, sipping refreshing smoothies and socking up the laid-back vibe in front of the shimmering azure.
Before leaving, make sure to catch the “Mirador de Puerto de Mogán” viewpoint. The ascent takes about 20-30 min, depending on individual pace. Along the way there’re many charming bars and restaurants with ocean views. You will also find many small local arts gracing the walls of houses.
This one with its colorful mosaic tiles reminds me of Joan Miró, a famous Spanish artist known for his use of bright colors and abstract geometric shapes.
Once reaching the viewpoint, you’ll have a panoramic vista of Gran Canaria’s rugged coastline sprawling below, with its cliffs, beaches and the iconic white town. Bathed in sunlight and unabashed splendor, time appears to pause in this fleeting moment, melting away in the soft ocean breeze.
Returning along the winding coastal roads, we were treated to dramatic cliffs and the endless Atlantic Ocean blue stretching out to the horizon. The coastline is dotted with jagged rock formations and hidden coves. We stopped at one called Lucas’ Cave, also known as Cueva de Lucas. It’s easily accessible by car.
The tide was low, so we ventured inside the cave. While not large, the cave offered a unique perspective of the ocean from within.
If you’ve got your swimsuits handy, take a dip in the waters surrounding the cave. Despite its charms, this beach is less touched by tourism.
Tips for your visit:
- Plan your transportation: Although public buses (bus-stop map on Gran Canaria) also connect Puerto de Mogán with other parts of the island, consider renting a car to explore the area at your own pace.
- Plan your time: Beat the crowd by arriving early in Puerto de Mogán, especially during peak seasons. In a few hours or half a day, you can visit the main attractions like the town center, port area, beach, and the lively Gañanía Market (open on Fridays). Don’t miss a stroll by the marina or along the promenade, and catch breathtaking views from the Mirador de Puerto de Mogán. If you’re up for it, extend your stay to a full day, and enjoy its tranquil charm at a more leisurely pace. Plus, nearby hiking trails (top 20 hikes and walks around Mogán) offer stunning views of the coastline and mountains. Hikes can take from a few hours to a full day.
- Pack essentials: sunscreen, water, and snacks as always. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the coastal trails or visit the cave. And don’t forget your swimsuit! Puerto de Mogán’s beach offers calm and clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Alright, fellow foodies, you know the drill! After a day of travel, it’s time to indulge in some delicious food! In our previous posts, we covered saffron paella, black paella, and tapas – the iconic flavors of Spain. Today, we’re going to show you a unique twist at Ibericos Jose Cruz restaurant. Their dishes combine the best of Spanish and German cuisine. Think Abendbrot (evening bread), ham or sausage, and Haxenfleisch (pork knuckle) – sounds German, doesn’t it? Now, let’s check out their Spanish version!
We started with freshly baked breadsticks accompanied by local olive oil.
Paired with salts sourced from various regions like the Himalayas, each oil dip has its own unique flavor – think floral, nutty, or even eggy. It’s simple, but you can taste quality in each bite – the smooth richness of the quality olive oil combined with the satisfying crunch of the bread. Discovering fruity notes, hints of grassiness and a subtle peppery finish, I didn’t know olive oil could taste so exquisite!
Anchovies and Salted Anchovies atop Crunchy, Salty Biscuits with Roasted Peppers – the perfect flavor set for a light and savory starter.
Fresh, plump, briny anchovies meet their umami counterpart in the salted variety. The biscuits offer a delightful crunch, their starchy texture balancing the savory fish. Sprinkle on some arugula for a unique touch of bitter freshness, while tomatoes and peppers add sweetness and juiciness. it’s complex, savory and incredibly tasty!
Now get ready for a flavor fiesta with the Tapas Mix for 2. It features a selection of iberico ham, 100% iberico acorn-fed ham, lomo iberico, chorizo iberico, morcilla achorizada, salchichon, Canarian cheese and olives from Antequera.
The Iberico Ham, rich and nutty, with a buttery texture and a hint of sweetness that melts in your mouth. The 100% Iberico Acorn-fed Ham takes it up a notch with a deeper, more intense nuttiness, elevated by notes of acorn and herbs. Lomo Iberico brings a bold, savory punch, infused with garlic, paprika, and black pepper.
Then, there’s Chorizo Iberico, with its rich, smoky flavor and a subtle spicy kick from smoked paprika. Morcilla Achorizada, a Spanish blood sausage seasoned with paprika, garlic, and cumin, adds savory, slightly spicy, and a hint of sweetness. Salchichon offers a milder variation, with a balanced blend of savory and sweet notes.
The Canarian cheese, creamy yet tangy, tastes mild and buttery on one side, and sharper and more pungent on the other side. The Antequera olives, firm, rich, and fruity, are the perfect accompaniment to the savory meats and tangy cheese.
Iberico ham is known for its unique flavor derived from acorn-rich diet of Iberian pigs and free-range upbringing for up to 3 years. At Ibericos Jose Cruz, you can savor a selection of this premium delicacy in one single plate, and it’s even better when paired with some crusty bread!
Iberico Pork Knuckle Cooked in its Juices effortlessly showcases the primacy of this prized breed of Iberico pork.
With its exceptional marbling, the thin streaks of white fat woven through the muscle fibers go almost unnoticed. Despite its lean texture, the meat is incredibly tender. Cooked in its own juices, the meat remains moist and succulent. Its natural flavor gets intensified by the rich, deep aromas of the bone marrow.
The tender meat breaks easily at the lightest touch of a fork. Pair it with the marrow-infused broth and buttery potatoes for a heaty, savory bite!
Crema Catalana is a classic Catalan dessert, featuring velvety, smooth custard with a caramelized sugar crust on top.
The thin, crunchy layer of caramel contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard underneath. Each spoonful delights with a rich, eggy essence, with subtle notes of cinnamon and citrus – very comforting and indulgent.
Our experience only gives you a glimpse of their offerings. Have a look at their menu! Wagyu beef croquettes, lamp shoulders, stuffed baby squid with caramelized onions etc. – It’s the perfect place for meat lovers seeking quality dishes prepared with excellence and innovation.
After a day of relaxation, it’s time to get those legs moving again. Our next destination is Teror, where we’ll discover the raw beauty of the Barranco Del Alamo hiking trail. Characterized by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, it’s a haven for exploring pristine wilderness. Nature lovers, don’t let this spot slip off your radar!
