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Your Guide to Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria, part of the Canary Islands of Spain, has been called a "miniature continent" as it contains a multitude of differing atmospheres. From the beaches of the East, to the canals of Puerto de Mogan, the island is widely varied and very popular with tourists looking for both a relaxing holiday and a cultural break.
About Gran Canaria | Getting to Gran Canaria | How to Get Around Gran Canaria | Activities in Gran Canaria
About Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is famous for its wildlife and over a third of the island is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The unusually variable climate within Gran Canaria has been described as one of the best in the world.
Climate
Gran Canaria is rich with micro-climates, although generally speaking the weather is pleasant all year round, with cooler days by the coast and inland by the mountains. The warmest month to visit is July.
Language
The official language of Gran Canaria is Spanish.
Getting to Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is easily accessible and most major airlines fly from the UK to its main airport at Las Palmas. From the airport there are car hire companies as well as bus companies to take visitors into the city centre. Boats to the island sail from the Iberian Peninsula.
How to Get Around Gran Canaria
One of the best ways to get around in Gran Canaria is by bike, the landscape offers a variety of biking opportunities and bike rental shops proliferate. Car rental is available in the resorts, and taxis are cheap and safe. There is no train service on the island, but the bus service is reliable.
Places to Visit
Palmitos Park
Palmitos Park is a zoo with a very different feel, full of exotic birds and plantations. There are a variety of animal shows to entertain the children.
Valsequillo
Valsequillo is a fascinating town, both geographically and architecturally. Dramatic volcanic ravines surround it, and within the town are the remains of the El Colmenar Barracks dating back to 1530.
Las Palmas
For the shopping minded traveller, the capital Las Palmas is a must-visit destination. Additionally this beautiful city has an ancient heritage and a well-preserved old quarter.
Activities
Water Sports
The surfing is renowned in Gran Canaria with excellent beaches in the North. Scuba diving is also very popular with companies offering a range of lessons and underwater tours.
Boat Trips
There are several companies based around the coast that specialise in sightseeing tours from the water. Boats take tourist around to the remote beaches and guides tell the history of the island.
Golf
On dry land Gran Canaria has the oldest golf club in Spain, and many newer ones with great views of the island's mountains and beaches.
Events
Las Palmas Carnival
Las Palmas carnival is held each February and attracts 200,000 people and is one of the most popular carnivals in Spain. With music, dancing, and colourful competitions it's no wonder both tourists and locals come to experience the Carnival.
ARC Rally
Every year, more than 100 yachts gather in Las Palmas for the ARC Rally to St Lucia. The city fills with local sailing fans and tourists to watch the sails fade into the horizon.
Canary Islands Classical Music Festival
Every year the Canary Islands take part in the Classical Music Festival, each using a venue to help run the event. Visitors sometimes island hop to see the majority of the festival all over the Canary Islands.
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