Spain's twistiest road packs in a curve for every day of the year
GC-200 in Gran Canaria challenges drivers with cliffs and hairpin thrills
Fancy a drive that keeps you on your toes? If you love a scenic drive with a bit of an adrenaline kick, Gran Canaria’s GC-200 might just top your list. Known as the “road of 365 curves”, this coastal stretch between Agaete and La Aldea de San Nicolás is as dramatic as it is dizzying, with bends, cliffs and ocean views that make it one of the most distinctive drives in Spain.This 30 kilometre route winds along the island’s rugged west coast, clinging to cliffs that rise as high as 900 metres above the Atlantic. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, but the road demands respect. Locals often joke there’s a curve for every day of the year, and they’re not far off. Sharp bends, rockfalls and limited barriers mean drivers need to stay alert at all times.
Until the 1970s, the GC 200 didn’t even have guardrails, which made it one of the country’s most dangerous roads. Historical records show that more than 40 people lost their lives here before safety improvements were introduced. In recent years, efforts have been made to modernise the route, including the construction of the Faneque twin tunnel, a project that helps avoid the most hazardous sections. Even so, the GC 200 remains a test of concentration, especially when the island’s weather takes a turn for the worse. Fog, rain and strong winds can make those tight turns all the more challenging.
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For safety, the most dangerous parts are now closed to regular traffic, but there’s still plenty left to explore. Many travellers treat the journey as an adventure in its own right—a thrilling way to see Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes and soak up the island´s raw charm. There are safe lookout points dotted along the way where you can pull over, take photos and simply take in the views, best enjoyed during daylight hours.
At one end of the route lies Agaete, a charming port town famous for its whitewashed houses, lively fish restaurants and the only place in Europe where coffee is still grown. At the other, La Aldea de San Nicolás offers a completely different feel: peaceful, rural and surrounded by tomato farms and wild coastline. For those willing to venture beyond the road itself, the hidden gem of Güi Güi beach awaits, accessible only on foot or by boat.
Other curvy stars like Sa Calobra's "tie knot" (MA-2141) on Mallorca or the Costa Brava's C-255 from Tossa de Mar to Sant Feliu de Guíxols tempt too, blending danger with scenic beauty. Yet the GC-200 stands out as Gran Canaria's iconic challenge. It´s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s an unforgettable experience for anyone with a steady hand and a love of adventure. So if you´re up for the challenge the GC-200 is a road trip where the journey itself is truly the destination.
Image: Googlemaps
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