Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Reserva Natural Especial de Pilancones is a protected natural reserve located in the southern part of Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands. The area is distinguished by its distinctive volcanic terrain, deep ravines, and rich biodiversity that includes a variety of endemic plant species such as Canarian pine forests and thickets of matorral vegetation. The reserve’s geography features steep slopes and panoramic viewpoints that overlook the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s dramatic landscapes. Pilancones has a significant ecological role, preserving habitats for several threatened species, including the Canary Island chaffinch and other unique birdlife. Historically, the area was sparsely inhabited and avoided due to its ruggedness, allowing natural ecosystems to thrive relatively undisturbed. Visitors today enjoy a network of trails that weave through ancient pine forests and volcanic formations, offering rewarding hiking and wildlife viewing. The area is less commercialized than other parts of Gran Canaria, providing solitude and a sense of wilderness that appeals to experienced hikers and nature lovers. Key landmarks include the steep Barranco de Los Cernícalos ravine and viewpoints such as La Pasadilla. The reserve is also recognized for its contribution to conserving natural water reservoirs and protecting native flora amid growing development pressures. With its diverse natural features and quiet trails, Reserva Natural Especial de Pilancones remains an important destination for eco-tourism and scientific study in the Canary Islands.
