Gran Canaria is one of Spain’s Canary Islands, off northwestern Africa. It's known for its black lava and white sand beaches. Its southern beaches include bustling Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico as well as quieter Puerto de Mogán and San Agustín. In the north, capital city Las Palmas is a major stop for cruise ships and duty-free shopping. The island’s interior is rural and mountainous.
This island is called a "miniature continent" due to the different climates and variety of landscapes found, with long beaches and dunes of white sand, contrasting with green ravines and picturesque villages.
The island has a total of 21 municipalities full of natural charms. Each one has its peculiarities, but all have a unique essence: the welcoming spirit of its people. Canarian hospitality makes no one feel like a stranger. The tourist is a friend, more than a visitor. Sun, beach, mountains, dunes, volcanoes, ravines, historic streets, carnivals, parties, concerts and festivals. Everything melts into the same destination. Adventure, rest and fun. And is that if we start to imagine an island ... that is Gran Canaria.
Sun and beach holidays are already established, as the main attraction of the island is its more than 128 beaches bathed by the Atlantic. Of golden or dark sand, of volcanic origin, large and small, virgin beaches, coves with crystal clear water ... A variety that also allows the practice of various water sports, such as surfing, windsurfing, sailing, water skiing, diving or deep sea fishing.
The most emblematic and exuberant beaches are Las Canteras, in the middle of the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria; and Maspalomas, in the south, famous for its golden dunes, which transport tourists to a dream desert where they can make fun camel excursions. Also noteworthy on the south coast are Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico. However, in recent years rural tourism has grown, in such a way that the network of restored centuries-old houses has increased, with more than 500 accommodation places distributed throughout the island. Lovers of nature and the environment can enjoy more than 307.8 kilometers of trails for hiking, cycling, climbing, trekking or horse riding. All this accompanied by the best weather conditions.
A fact that reflects the importance of nature on the island is that 43% of its surface is declared a "protected natural area", compared to the European average of 13%. The diversity of microclimates has favored the development and conservation of flora species on our planet and, as in the Galapagos Islands, the evolution of fauna is distinguished. This ecological offer also welcomes the practice of various extreme sports.
Culture lovers will be able to enjoy an incredible range of options. On the one hand, archeology and prehistory. Gran Canaria has vestiges that are difficult to find in Europe, supported by the largest collection of Chromanoid mummies in the world, which are in the Canarian Museum, in the capital of the island. On the other hand, the water and theme parks, the spaces for digital leisure or online games and the nightlife venues stand out. In addition, folklore and popular festivals are very important, such as the well-known Gran Canaria Carnivals.
The cultural agenda is very complete throughout the year: classical music, opera, world music festivals, film, theater and dance festivals, literary meetings and contemporary art exhibitions in the various museums that are scattered throughout the island. Much of this leisure offer is found in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This city enjoys a cosmopolitan, tourist and coastal spirit, while preserving the tranquility of the small towns and villages of the rural area. The island is also an ideal place to go shopping due to the low taxation of its products. However, each municipality has wonders hidden among its streets and historic centers, which contain the color of art. You can hike through the rugged mountains, attend concerts, sail on a sailboat or simply watch a splendid sunset. And another attraction: the local gastronomy. An addition that adds a pinch of taste and flavor to the towns and villages of the interior.
The climate of Gran Canaria has also made the dream of golf lovers come true. The island was a pioneer in Spain in the practice of this sport, opening its first course in 1891. Today it has six first-class golf courses, which is why it has become a must for amateurs and professionals alike. In Gran Canaria you can also find care and pampering. Tourism dedicated to wellness has increased in recent years. In this sense, there are spas with thalassotherapy, hydrotherapy, relaxation, beauty centers and rehabilitation treatments, or for chronic rheumatism, ulcerative lesions and skin conditions.
Another option that is very much in vogue is to combine pleasure with work. This round island has three conference palaces, equipped with modern infrastructures. All this varied offer makes Gran Canaria a first-class tourist destination, which also has an excellent hotel offer, with more than 130,000 tourist beds. It is possible to find accommodation for all tastes, from spectacular hotels with all kinds of services to bungalows and private villas with gardens, ideal for family vacations.
Let's stop imagining ... Gran Canaria is close. In just two and a half hours by plane, from Madrid, and three from Barcelona, you can enjoy its tropical beauty and unique landscape.