GRAN CANARIA, CANARY ISLANDS

Leaving our ship, we drive through pretty countryside until we arrive in the country town of Teror, famous for its fine examples of carved wooden balconies. In the centre lies the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, the Patron Saint of Gran Canaria.

Leaving our ship, we drive through pretty countryside until we arrive in the country town of Teror, famous for its fine examples of carved wooden balconies. In the centre lies the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, the Patron Saint of Gran Canaria. A sacred effigy of the Virgin is said to have appeared miraculously in a pine tree, in the 15th century. We continue up the Arucas Mountains for a panoramic view of the beautiful, rugged north coast. From here we travel inland to Arucas, the banana capital of Gran Canaria, with quaint cobbled streets and lovely old houses. There is also an impressive Neo-Gothic church, which looks totally out of place amongst the small white houses. We will visit a typical banana plantation, where they will explain the growing and ripening process. In this plantation we can enjoy refreshments, before our return to our ship. There is approximately 1,500 metres (5,000 feet) of walking involved and 8 steps to encounter. Please note the church of Teror is closed on Mondays.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2007 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES