Welcome to Arguineguin.org
Arguineguin has become one of the most popular destinations on Gran Canaria, particularly among Scandinavian visitors. The town especially attracts seniors who are either permanent residents or enjoying extended holiday stays. Regular charter tourists on shorter holidays also find their place here, with Sunwing Resort Arguineguin leading the accommodation options.
The area also boasts some of the island's finest timeshare facilities. Anfi del Mar in Patalavaca stands out as perhaps the most renowned, a resort that has grown to become an integral part of Arguineguin after many years of extensive development in the region.
From Fishing Village to Tourist Destination
Arguineguin was originally a small fishing village that has only recently expanded in terms of tourism, mainly attracting visitors from Northern Europe. Despite this rapid development, the town still retains signs of being a charming fishing village, though traffic and noise levels have increased considerably.
Every Tuesday, the island's largest market takes place here, featuring the goods you would naturally expect at such a market. Don't expect high-quality products, but the atmosphere is exactly as it should be at a market of this type - complete with haggling and plenty of non-original items.
A Scandinavian Hub
Arguineguin serves as a kind of center for Scandinavian residents, especially Norwegians who live on Gran Canaria or are on extended vacations. Here you'll find the Norwegian Seamen's Church, Norwegian school, Norwegian real estate agents, and the Norwegian club, to name a few.
It's said that approximately 5,000 Norwegians reside in the town and its immediate surroundings at any given time. You'll constantly encounter fellow Norwegians while out shopping or at the beach. Don't be surprised if the waiter at your restaurant turns out to be a Norwegian who has settled in Arguineguin.
This can be a pleasant change from the more intrusive waiters at the larger shopping centers in Puerto Rico and Playa del Inglés, where staff sometimes think your children find it tremendously fun to be pinched on the ears and similar antics.
Beaches and Coastal Life
If you're visiting the beaches of Arguineguin, there's really only one choice for families - the beach located at Anfi del Mar. This is an artificial beach constructed with imported white sand, a stark contrast to the local volcanic sand that can burn your feet if you walk barefoot.
The artificial beach offers a more comfortable experience for families with children, providing soft sand and calmer waters. The volcanic beaches, while authentic to the Canary Islands, can be challenging for those not accustomed to the dark, heat-absorbing sand.
Local Culture and Daily Life
The town maintains a relaxed pace of life that reflects its fishing village origins. Morning brings the sight of local fishermen preparing their boats, while evenings see families and tourists strolling along the coastal promenade.
Local restaurants serve a mix of traditional Canarian cuisine and international dishes catering to the diverse resident population. Fresh fish features prominently on many menus, sourced directly from the local fishing fleet that still operates from the town's harbor.
The presence of so many Scandinavian residents has created a unique cultural blend. You'll find Nordic bakeries alongside traditional Spanish tapas bars, and it's not uncommon to hear Norwegian or Swedish spoken in the streets alongside Spanish and English.
Shopping and Services
Beyond the famous Tuesday market, Arguineguin offers various shopping opportunities. Small local shops sell everything from beachwear to groceries, while larger establishments cater to the needs of long-term residents.
The Norwegian services available in town make it particularly convenient for Scandinavian visitors. Banking, healthcare, and legal services are often available in Nordic languages, making bureaucratic tasks much easier for foreign residents.
Real estate agencies specializing in properties for Northern European buyers are common, reflecting the steady demand from people looking to make Arguineguin their permanent or seasonal home.
Climate and Natural Beauty
The town enjoys Gran Canaria's famous year-round mild climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below comfortable levels even in winter months. This consistent weather is one of the main draws for long-term visitors seeking escape from harsh Northern European winters.
The surrounding landscape showcases the diverse beauty of Gran Canaria, from coastal cliffs to inland valleys. Walking trails lead into the hills behind the town, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring islands on clear days.
The harbor area remains picturesque despite increased development, with traditional fishing boats bobbing alongside modern pleasure craft. Early morning or late afternoon visits to the harbor provide glimpses of authentic island life that existed long before tourism arrived.