Teror

The Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino is one of the places most cherished by the people of Gran Canaria. Every 8 September, thousands walk here from across the island for the patron saint’s festival. You needn’t be a believer to step inside: the building is beautiful and the square is a fine place to pause.

On Sunday mornings the town comes alive. Its market is among the best known on the island, with local produce you won’t find in a supermarket.

• Chorizo de Teror: a soft, spiced sausage, perfect in a sandwich
• Queso de flor: made with vegetable rennet, intense in flavour
• Local honey: from the mountains around the town
• Crafts: bags, ceramics and handmade jewellery

It pays to arrive early: fewer people, and the town is quieter.

If you enjoy walking, there are several trails nearby. One of the loveliest leads to the Finca de Osorio, through woodland and with fine views over the valley.

• Length: about 6 km
• Difficulty: moderate
• Start: from the centre of Teror

A good way to combine the town and nature in a single day.

Teror is also a good place to eat traditional food.

• Chorizo de Teror: in almost every bar in the centre, in fresh sandwiches
• Casa de los Camellos: traditional cooking in a rustic setting; try the gofio escaldado or the marinated rabbit
• El Encuentro: local dishes with a modern touch
• Dulcería Benítez: a historic pastry shop for truchas de batata (sweet-potato pastries)

For a genuine souvenir, the centre has small shops with ceramics, handmade jewellery, textiles and woodwork.

• By car: 30 minutes from Las Palmas on the GC-21
• By bus: line 216 from Las Palmas, comfortable and frequent
• On foot: perfect for wandering its cobbled lanes

The best time is Sunday morning, for the market; for more calm, choose a weekday.