Holidays to Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is one of Spain’s Canary Islands located off the northwest coast of Africa. Known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and year-round warm weather, Gran Canaria has become a popular holiday destination for tourists from all over the world. The island is a great option for those seeking relaxation or adventure, as there are plenty of activities to suit all interests.
A Brief Overview of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is the third-largest island in the Canary Islands archipelago and boasts over 236 kilometers (146 miles) of coastline. The island’s interior is mountainous, with peaks reaching over 1,900 meters (6,200 feet), making it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers.
The island’s capital city is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, located in the northeast part of the island. The city boasts a beautiful old town with charming cobbled streets and historic buildings such as Casa de Colón Museum and Catedral de Santa Ana.
Reasons Why Gran Canaria Is a Popular Choice for Tourists
One reason why Gran Canaria has become such a popular holiday destination is due to its year-round warm weather. The island enjoys an average temperature of around 25°C (77°F) throughout the year, making it an ideal winter sun destination.
In addition to its climate, Gran Canaria offers visitors stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and water sports such as surfing and scuba diving. One notable beach on the island is Maspalomas Beach which stretches over six kilometers (4 miles) along the south coast.
Another reason why tourists flock to Gran Canaria is its lively nightlife scene. From bars and nightclubs to live music venues and casinos – there’s something for everyone on this vibrant island after dark.
Getting to Gran Canaria
Flight options from major cities in Europe and beyond
Gran Canaria is a popular destination for European tourists, with many airlines offering direct flights from major cities across the continent. Some of the most popular airlines that offer flights to Gran Canaria include Ryanair, EasyJet, and Norwegian Air.
These airlines offer affordable prices and competitive deals, making it easier for tourists to plan their trip to the island. For those traveling from outside Europe, there are still plenty of flight options available.
Airlines such as Turkish Airlines and Emirates offer connecting flights that stopover in Istanbul or Dubai before continuing on to Las Palmas Airport (LPA) on Gran Canaria. These flights may take a little longer than direct ones but can often be more cost-effective.
Transportation options within the island
Once you arrive in Gran Canaria, there are several transportation options available for getting around the island. The most common mode of transport is by car rental or taxi service.
Car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate on the island and provide affordable rates for tourists who want to explore at their own pace. Local buses are another option for transportation around the island.
The buses are cheap and reliable with routes that cover most parts of Gran Canaria. This is a good option if you’re looking to save money but keep in mind that buses can be crowded during peak hours.
For those who prefer adventure or simply want to experience an alternative mode of transportation while on holiday in Gran Canaria, renting a scooter or bicycle can be an exciting option. Rentals are easy to find and offer a unique way of experiencing the beautiful scenery of the island while getting some exercise at the same time.
Overall, there are plenty of ways to get around Gran Canaria once you arrive on the island. Whether you prefer renting your own transportation or utilizing public transport, there is an option that suits your needs and budget.
Accommodation Options in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from budget-friendly apartments and guesthouses to luxury resorts and hotels. With so many choices, it can be challenging to decide where to stay.
Types of Accommodations Available in Gran Canaria
If you’re looking for a hassle-free option, resorts such as the Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel provide all-inclusive packages for guests. Many offer on-site restaurants, swimming pools, and entertainment options.
Alternatively, apartment rentals provide visitors with more independence than a hotel room, as they come equipped with kitchens and living areas. For travelers seeking luxury accommodations during their stay in Gran Canaria, hotels like the Seaside Palm Beach offer five-star amenities such as spas, fine dining experiences at on-site restaurants.
For visitors seeking something more affordable or staying for an extended period of time, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations to choose from. Cheap guesthouses or hostels located near popular tourist spots are perfect for backpackers on a tight budget or solo travelers who prioritize proximity over privacy.
Recommendations for Budget-Friendly and Luxury Options
One excellent option is the Bull Reina Isabel & Spa located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This hotel offers oceanfront rooms along with spa facilities and an outdoor pool at reasonable rates. When it comes to luxury hotels in Gran Canaria consider Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Mogan or Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort & Thalasso that offer exceptional amenities like private balconies with sea views and top-notch dining options.
In terms of self-catering apartments check out Apartamentos BlueBay Beach Club that has stunning views over Playa Taurito Bay while still keeping within budget limitations. To save money without compromising comfort when traveling alone or with a group, consider staying in some of the many centrally located bed-and-breakfasts or guesthouses.
The Antique House Bed and Breakfast located in the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offers clean, comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities at affordable rates. With plenty of options to choose from that cater to different budgets and preferences, finding an ideal place to stay during your visit to Gran Canaria should be a breeze.
Things to do in Gran Canaria
Beaches and Water Activities
Gran Canaria is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. Among the top beaches to visit are Playa de Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Playa de Puerto Rico, and Amadores Beach. Each beach has its unique features that make it stand out from the rest.
For example, Playa de Maspalomas is a long stretch of golden sand dunes that are perfect for sunbathing or taking a leisurely walk. On the other hand, Amadores Beach has calm turquoise waters that make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Gran Canaria also offers a wide range of water activities such as surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and scuba diving. There are many schools scattered along the coastline that cater to both beginners and experts alike.
Those looking for an adrenaline rush can try their hand at surfing or windsurfing at Pozo Izquierdo or Vargas Beach. Kitesurfers will enjoy the strong winds at Bahía Feliz while divers can explore underwater caves at Sardina del Norte.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Gran Canaria boasts breathtaking landscapes with its mountains and valleys offering a contrasting backdrop to its stunning coastlines. One of the best ways to experience these natural wonders is by going on hikes along well-marked trails in the mountains. Some popular hiking routes include Roque Nublo Trail which offers spectacular views of volcanic formations such as Roque Nublo itself which stands at an impressive 1,813 meters high.
Jeep safari tours are also popular among tourists who want to explore Gran Canaria’s nature up close while riding in off-road vehicles through rugged terrain towards hidden spots that are inaccessible by regular vehicles. For those who would like a more relaxing and less adventurous way to see the island’s natural beauty, there are many dolphin-watching tours available where visitors can observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Culture and History
In addition to its beautiful natural landscapes, Gran Canaria also has a rich culture and history that is worth exploring. The Cueva Pintada Museum is one of the best places to visit for those interested in learning about the island’s pre-Hispanic culture, with exhibitions showcasing its pottery, jewelry, and other artifacts. Exploring local markets and festivals is also an excellent way to immerse oneself in Gran Canaria’s culture.
The Sunday market in Vega de San Mateo offers a wide range of locally produced food products as well as handicrafts while the Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria celebrated in February attracts thousands of tourists every year with its colorful parades, music, and dance performances. Overall, there are plenty of activities to suit any visitor’s interests in this beautiful destination.
Food and Drink in Gran Canaria
Discovering the Flavors of Gran Canaria’s Traditional Dishes and Drinks
One of the best ways to experience a country or region is through their culinary traditions. In Gran Canaria, traditional dishes revolve around local ingredients such as seafood, pork, goat, potatoes, and plantains. Some of the must-try dishes include “papas arrugadas” (wrinkled potatoes served with mojo sauce), “gofio” (toasted cornmeal used in stews and desserts), “ropa vieja” (shredded beef stew), and “sancocho” (fish stew).
People also enjoy snacking on local cheese varieties like the Queso de Flor or Queso de Guia. Gran Canaria also has a long-standing tradition of winemaking from grapes that grow on volcanic soil at high altitudes.
The wines are aged in oak barrels for several years before being bottled. A visit to one of the many vineyards present on the island provides an opportunity to taste these delicious wines.
Top Restaurants for Authentic Local Cuisine
The culinary scene in Gran Canaria offers a wide range of options for visitors to indulge in local cuisine. One restaurant that stands out is Restaurante El Novillo Precoz located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
This steakhouse offers high-quality meat from its own farm, cooked over an open flame grill. Another gem on the island is Los Guayres located at Cordial Mogán Playa Hotel in Puerto de Mogán.
The award-winning restaurant serves contemporary Canary cuisine using traditional recipes but with modern twists that delight guests’ palates. For seafood lovers, Restaurante Rias Bajas is an ideal option as they serve fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic Ocean daily.
To enjoy some great views of the sea, visit Restaurante El Vaquero in Arinaga. They specialize in grilled seafood and meat dishes.
Experiencing the gastronomic delights of Gran Canaria is a must for every foodie visiting the island. There are numerous options available to try traditional dishes and wines, and some of the recommended restaurants provide excellent service as well as an authentic culinary experience that will create lasting memories.
Nightlife in Gran Canaria
The Party Scene: Clubs and Bars
Gran Canaria’s nightlife scene is vibrant and varied, catering to all ages and tastes. The island is renowned for its party atmosphere, with many clubs and bars staying open until the early hours of the morning. One of the most popular areas for nightlife is Playa del Inglés, where visitors can find a wide range of bars, nightclubs, discos, and live music venues.
Local favorite clubs like Pacha or Maspalomas’ Aqua Ocean Club offer an international line-up of DJs spinning house tunes each weekend. Several bars in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria also cater to party-goers with their lively ambience where locals usually start drinking before midnight at pubs like El Pueblo Bar in Vegueta or La Azotea de Benito rooftop bar in Triana which offers stunning views over the city while enjoying a drink.
Chill-out & Cocktails
Gran Canaria’s nightlife also offers plenty of options for those who prefer a laid-back evening out over dancing till dawn. There are many seafront bars that serve cocktails and beers with ocean views while some of them are perfect for a sunset cocktail such as Café del Mar in Puerto Rico or Sunset 2900 Lounge Bar in Meloneras.
Casinos & Shows
If you’re looking for something different from clubs and bars, Gran Canaria has several casinos offering gambling facilities or live shows such as theater plays or musicals that can provide an entertaining evening out.
Conclusion
Gran Canaria truly offers something for everyone when it comes to nightlife entertainment. From world-famous clubs to relaxed seafront bars or engaging casino shows, visitors will not be disappointed by what Gran Canaria has to offer after sunset.
The island’s nightlife scene will leave you with unforgettable memories that you can cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to party hard, enjoy a relaxed drink, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Gran Canaria’s nightlife will not disappoint.
