Discover gorgeous beaches, stunning landscapes and endless charm on Gran Canaria.
With average year-round temperatures of 24°C and just a four-hour flight from the UK, Gran Canaria is the perfect place to choose for a sunny break. Known as the ‘Continent in Miniature’ the island boasts incredible landscapes and biodiversity, making it a must-see for nature lovers. From rolling sand dunes to gorgeous beaches, rich forests to still lagoons, volcanic terrain and lush vegetation the island is one of a kind.
The islands urban ecosystems are also well worth exploring. Gran Canaria’s larger cities and hubs are excellent for losing yourself in fascinating history, enjoying brilliant cuisine and relaxing in comfort. Moving inland you’ll find charming villages nestled high up surrounded by lush vegetation and oozing with charm. On the island, you’ll find a warm and welcoming culture and people, eager to share the island they love with visitors.
Beaches
Protected by reefs, sheltered from the wind and with shallow waters, Gran Canaria’s white and golden fine-sand beaches could have been tailor-made for families. And there’s something here for every mood, from quiet and remote to lively and fun-packed. Many offer water sports, ranging from jet-skiing to kayaking and from banana boat rides to parasailing.
Although the island’s unique attraction is its golden sandy beaches, it also has natural volcanic rock pools and hidden coves, only accessible by boat or on foot. One of Gran Canaria’s best beaches is Maspalomas Dunes (a UNESCO protected nature reserve) on the southernmost point of the island. The dunes are surrounded by Playa del Inglés beach on one side and the Maspalomas and Meloneras resorts on the other.
Meloneras is Gran Canaria’s best resort, with a 2km oceanfront promenade, lined with excellent bars, cafés and restaurants. Other popular resorts are beautiful Amadores Beach, Anfi and Mogán, known as a little Venice. Traditional resorts Playa del Inglés and San Agustín, have also been recently updated. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is an excellent city-break, with a stunning urban beach and great cultural and gastronomic offer.
If you’re looking for more seclusion there are a number of quiet beaches as well. Hike to Güi Güi Grande and Güi Güii Chico beach on the west of the Island for a less busy experience. Dominated by high cliffs you’ll be sure to have a serene experience. Another great option is the Agaete Natural Pools. Connected to the sea via volcanic tubes and separated from the sea by a ring of rock enclosing them, these are perfect for watching the ocean while relaxing in the still water.
Stunning Landscapes
Gran Canaria’s natural biodiversity means it’s the perfect place to get lost in exploring the natural world. Gran Canaria’s landscapes are very different from each other with a peculiar mix of sandy dunes, palm-tree groves, pine forests and impressive mountains with breathtaking views. Almost half of Gran Canaria’s territory is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve due to the unique landscapes present on the Island.
To take it all in you’ll want to make sure you visit the mountain interior of the Island. Gran Canaria summit allows far-reaching views over an ancient and sacred rock Roque Bentayga (1,404m) and the famous landmark of Gran Canaria, Roque Nublo (1,813m), along with pine forests, lakes and picturesque villages. Other standouts include the Azuaje Ravine, whose mountain stream runs all the way to the sea and the beautiful Viera y Clavijo Botanical Garden which is the largest one in the Spanish territories.
Cuisine and Culinary Heritage
Gran Canaria offers an endless list of distractions and attractions to delight you on your next visit to the Island. Its culinary scene is diverse and varied with a huge emphasis on natural ingredients. On the coast, you’ll be able to sample a wide range of delicious seafood and fish dishes caught fresh from the ocean. Other standouts include papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, gofio escaldado, potaje stew, freshly baked Canarian bread and local wine. Be sure to head inland to explore the plantations growing bananas, tropical fruits and coffee which thrive in the warm climate. Best of all Gran Canaria is known for its Honey Rum, a delicacy you’ll have to try to make your trip complete.
Gran Canaria is now also part of the Tasting Spain network, inspiring young, talented chefs to create contemporary dishes with local ingredients and traditional recipes. Gourmet Gran Canaria’s luxury offerings include two Michelin starred restaurants, La Aquarela in Patalavaca, in the south of Gran Canaria, where German Ortega leads the kitchen and Los Guayres at the Cordial Mogan Playa Hotel, headed up by Alexis Alvarez. Savour the flavour.
Activities
Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes make it the perfect place to explore and work up a sweat. You can take part in a huge range of activities on the island from climbing, cycling, diving, surfing, hiking and more. Gran Canaria regularly hosts excellent sporting event triathlons, hiking events, competitive swimming and marathons. There is a range of events coming up this year, find out more here.
If you’re looking to reconnect and unwind then Gran Canaria also has a huge amount to offer. The island is renowned for its high purity Aloe Vera which is a staple in many of the wellness centres on the island. On the island, you’ll be able to find many excellent spas, health and wellness centres which can help you relax and recharge on your holiday.
Feeling inspired?
Speak to our expert travel agents today to plan your perfect trip to Gran Canaria, and don’t forget, you can donate 5% of the price to the charity of your choice for free!
by net effect
