The place in Agüimes we are approaching today, Playa del Cabrón, has a name that may sound somewhat rude for the uninitiated (cabrón in Spanish means bastard). It is however the welcoming Playa del Cabrón, whose name actually refers to the male goat, or cabra. This breed of cattle is the highest in Gran Canaria, numbering over 100,000, while Agüimes is one of the municipalities where this traditional cattle has most farmland given over to it. The local cuisine offers a range of fine goats’ meats which are highly regarded by culinary enthusiasts.

But let’s talk about the sea. From the beach where we are taking our stroll around Gran Canaria, we come to the lighthouse at Punta de Arinaga, which rises elegantly over the surrounding area.

The lighthouse was built following project plans by Juan de León y Castillo. Today’s structure is not the original one first built, and the use of it is not as elementary as it once was, although it continues to help vessels mark out the coastline at night.

Indeed a lookout like this cannot afford to switch off if it is to avoid accidents, in the same way a travelling explorer mustn’t miss out coming to this spot. The island deserves a 360 degree visit, so a lookout, lighthouse and explorer have a lot in common, as they should leave no corner untouched.

The beach here belongs to the municipality of Agüimes, and is located in an emminently flat area, featuring La Montaña de Arinaga which rises up some 199 metres altitude, and is a natural monument. This was possibly the first natural geological formation to have this name which was then extended to the rest of the territory.

Arinaga is the toponym which gives the name to the coastline at Agüimes, at the point where the Balos Ravine opens out to the sea.

Throughout history, this coastal location in Gran Canaria has featured a long list of natural values which although at first sight may not be appreciated, they certainly belong to it. It is a protected area which requires conservation because of its natural and landscape characteristics. Its remarkable ecological value are apparent both on land and in the water, as the sea beds around here offer a wealth of striking biodiversity and a huge array of different species of fish.

It is an ideal spot for going diving, and those who take the plunge can easily come across the Starfish (Narcissia canariensis), one of the most beautiful scarlet species in the Canaries. In areas with algae there are plenty of local Vieja fish while at rockier areas there are Meros, along with Octopus and Moray eel that hide themselves away, plus many more species...

For those who prefer not to venture deep into the ocean, we recommend a ramble as far as the lighthouse, a dip in the snug little beach measuring less than 300 metres long, or alternatively a walk around the waves lapping in and out, and the caves and sinkholes along the coastline which can be a pleasant experience too. Help keep the place clean while you enjoy the surroundings, as the lookout always keeps a silent but attentive look out.