San Bartolomé de Tirajana circuit

This approximates to a walk with a similar name in the Rother Walking guide to Gran Canaria which is always worth referring to. It is also similar to a hike already posted here, but in this case the hike starts in San Bartolomé rather than Cruz Grande. This is partly because we approached the hike from the south, but mainly because we wanted to start the hike from a low point so that we would not have a climb to complete the route when we anticipated being tired.

We parked off road where indicated. Set off back along the road towards the Mirador and turn right along the road past the hotel Las Tirajanas. Take the next right and follow the path around to the left before bearing right at a fork onto a concrete road. This road soon becomes an unsurfaced track and heads gently uphill for the next mile before swinging right and zigzagging more steeply uphill to the Degollada de la Manzanilla.

From the Degollada, turn right and head north along a wide unsurfaced road which contours around the hillside until you reach the road at Cruz Grande. Turn right through the road cutting and then turn immediately right onto the path that leads you back down to San Bartolomé.

This trail is listed as one of the top trails on Gran Canaria in the Rother guide. We are normally in agreement with the author's assessment, but on this occasion we have to differ. The view does not vary much, and 2/3 of the trail is along an unmade road which is dusty and throws up a lot of glare. There is no shade. Whilst you cover the miles quickly, it is tedious and seems to go on for ever. In its favour, the navigation is easy and I can imagine it suiting a group of friends who want a longish hike whilst chatting and not having to pay attention to route finding. I have recommended this trail be included as it is recommended in several publications and a description with photos may be helpful.