Teror is a place of pilgrimage, and has one of the island’s prettiest churches dedicated to Nuestra Senora del Pino (Virgin of the Pine), Gran Canaria’s patron saint. A statue of the Virgin is seated on a silver throne above the altar, flanked by heavy silver chandeliers. Said to have been found in a pine tree in the 15th century, the statue is now taken out for special fiestas. Construction on the Basilica began in 1767, but has since been restored.

Leaving Teror, we continue to Arucas, the banana capital of Gran Canaria, with its cobbled streets and lovely old houses. Here there is an impressive Neo-Gothic church – a cathedral in miniature – which, if open, we shall visit. We will also visit Jardín de la Marquesa (The Marquise’s Gardens), with spacious Romantic-style gardens, founded in 1880. It is also a typical banana plantation, and here the growing and ripening process of bananas will be explained to us. We shall also enjoy refreshments before returning to our awaiting ship.

TOUR NOTES: There is approximately 1,500 metres (5,000 feet) of walking involved in this tour, and approximately 20 steps to negotiate at Jardín de la Marquesa. Please note that should our call fall on a Monday, the Church of Teror is closed, in which case an explanation will be given outside.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PUBLISHING.