Gran Canaria

This is one of the islands that make up the Canary Islands but more importantly it is a gorgeous getaway that redefines the meaning of the word ‘scenic’. And it has the perfect weather to match; temperatures here average 20°C in winter and about 26°C in summer and there are hardly ever clouds in sight, especially between June and September.

Gran Canaria’s landscape is multifaceted and it has much more to offer than amazing beaches. Visitors who head out to this tourist hotspot will find plenty to see and do as well as excellent conditions for complete R&R. Small wonder over 2 million travellers troop into Gran Canaria every year.

Sightseeing and activities

It’s not by chance that no other place but Gran Canaria is referred to as ‘The Small Continent’. Where else can you find your typical coastal scene; palm trees, sandy beaches, blue sea waters etc, in the same place as snow-capped mountains and dense jungle replete with diverse plant species, and, get this, the curvy sand dunes typical of deserts? And all on a tiny round island a mere 50km in diameter? Sightseeing is therefore naturally the priority of most of the island’s visitors.

So forget the sunbathing for a moment and picture yourself hiking up the mountain ranges and suddenly coming across a village over 500 metres above sea level. As you wonder just how they built such fine colonial homes so high up, you can admire the stunning scenery around you as well.

Before you hit the beaches why not venture into the old town of Arucas? Here you will find lovely, tranquil parks and the Montaña de Arucas volcano as well as some scenic bays.

You could also take a detour to Santa Maria de Guia in the north and visit the fascinating Cenobio de Valeròn caves. The fishing village of Arinaga to the south offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. On quitting the villages you can hike through some of Gran Canaria’s natural parks to become one with nature.

On descending, you will be embraced by the balmy coastal air and find yourself with a wide selection of beaches to choose from. Maspalomas is one of Gran Canaria’s most beautiful beaches and is a refuge for residents of other parts of Europe when the winter is at its chilliest. Nothing can bring greater pleasure than promenading along its 6 kilometres of fine white sand while swallowing the sweet Mediterranean breeze.

Or simply enjoying the shade of the palm trees that adorn the several oases on this part of the island. If you are looking for a more secluded area where you can read your novel in peace or nod off quietly, San Agustin Beach is the place to go. Playa de las Nieves has high snow capped peaks just behind it and makes for breathtaking viewing.

A number of water sports are held along these beaches including sport fishing and diving. Up for a round of golf? There are up to 8 different courses for you to choose from including Las Palmeras Golf, Maspalomas Golf and Salobre Golf & Resort. Most of these are designed to meet international standards meaning they are suitable for seasoned golfers and beginners alike.

Events

Among the events you can include in your Gran Canaria itinerary are the lively Maspalomas International Carnival that happens in mid-February at the town of San Bartolome de Tirjana and the Fiestas del Charco festival that takes place every September.