The Caldera de Bandama and nearby Pico de Bandama are two excellent places to visit and are only 30 minutes away from Las Palmas by car. As the name suggests, the Caldera is a volcanic crater, created during violent volcanic activity some 5000 years ago, and is the biggest crater in the Canary Islands. The caldera is roughly 1000 metres across and 200 metres deep. There are numerous caves in the walls of the crater which were occupied in prehistoric times. In later times the bottom of the crater was occupied by several farming families. It is possible to see several stone threshing floors, a wooden wine press and a number of stone water channels which give an idea of the kind of agricultural activity the crater supported in times past. Access to the crater is from the hamlet of Casas de Fondo, where there is a bar/restaurant for sustenance after the walk down and back. The descent takes 30 minutes and is steep and the surface of the path is fine volcanic scree and is quite rough. Good walking footwear and drinking water are highly recommended.There are a number of paths around the bottom of the crater which allow the visitor to view the old farm buildings and very varied flora. Close by is the Pico de Bandama which is the highest point in the area and was one of the focal points of the eruption that caused the crater below. Nowadays, the Pico has a small carpark, a bar/cafeteria and is popular because of the matchless panoramic views. Just below the car park there is an entry point to the walk around the crater perimeter. The path is narrow and steep and rough in places. The full circuit takes roughly two hours. Again, strong footwear and drinking water are advisable. A worthwhile experience.