Vega de San Mateo can be discovered in a variety of ways: with a stroll among churches and traditional shops, along trails through the countryside, through its market history, or by exploring astronomy. Each offers a different focus. When planning, you can choose whether to prioritize local history, nature or stargazing opportunities.
Exploring the Town and Its Architecture
The historic center is ideal for a stroll. Churches, buildings, picturesque streets, traditional shops and a range of architectural styles offer several points of interest along the way. The parish church of La Vega de San Mateo has two naves and a central bell tower designed by José Luján Pérez. The story of its bell is also tied to the town: four years after the church was built, it was sent from Cuba by Canarian emigrants from San Mateo.
Another perspective on the area’s architecture can be found at the Sala de Exposiciones La Caldereta. The exhibition space is housed in a former single-family home dating from the first half of the 19th century. The Teror–San Mateo route adds a religious connection to this cultural perspective: pilgrims from Vega de San Mateo use it on September 8 on their way to the Fiesta del Pino.
Trails and Landscape
The Siete Fuentes–San Mateo route begins within the protected Paisaje Protegido de las Cumbres, known for its wealth of plant life and distinctive endemic species. Along the way, it passes cultivated land, old farmsteads, ponds and homes before reaching the center of San Mateo. It thus traces a route from protected natural areas into the town, passing through agricultural and residential stretches along the way.
The Barranco de la Mina originates near San Mateo and is used for hiking and canyoning. If you plan to go canyoning, check local conditions in advance. The Área recreativa Ana Lopéz is in the higher parts of the municipality of San Mateo, in Gran Canaria’s central mountain region and within the protected Paisaje Protegido de las Cumbres. These places offer different perspectives on the landscape; they should not be considered part of a single route.
Astronomy and Planning Your Visit
The Centro Astronómico Municipal has an observation platform with 360-degree views of Gran Canaria’s summit region. Several permanently installed platforms with modern telescopes are used for stargazing workshops. The center organizes educational and observation activities for educational institutions, tourists and others interested in astronomy. Dates and activities are announced separately; check them before planning a visit.
The Observatorio Roque Saucillo is separate: it does not have regular opening hours and does not offer museum visits. Its educational activities are aimed at educational institutions and take place by prior appointment. So don’t plan it as a destination that you can visit spontaneously.
Market History and Crafts
The public market tradition in Vega de San Mateo began in the late 19th or early 20th century in connection with a livestock fair. The first fair and market were established in 1890. Today, the Mercado Agrícola y Artesanal de Vega de San Mateo is a popular destination for visitors on weekends. It offers handcrafted goods such as wicker baskets, Canarian knives, and leather and wood products. The specific range of goods may vary; if you are coming for particular products, check in advance to see what is currently available.
Practical Information
The Centro Hípico de San Mateo offers excursions and holiday camps. Schedules and services may change, so it’s a good idea to ask about the current program if you plan to take part. The municipal tourist information office is located in the Sala de Exposiciones La Caldereta, C/ Dr. Ramírez Cabrera 9. As its location may change, confirm it locally before visiting.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Las Lagunetas, El Estanco, Mogán, Valsequillo, La Caldera, Maspalomas, Urbanización la Suerte, Valleseco.
For the main travel overview: Gran Canaria.
