By Gran Canaria, one of the seven Canary Islands, is not just a popular destination for sun-seekers and beach-goers. It is also a place where you can discover a rich and diverse culture, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, and a gastronomy that will delight your taste buds. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo trip, Gran Canaria has something for everyone.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital of the island and the province, is the largest city in the Canary Islands and one of the most dynamic in Spain. It offers a wide range of cultural attractions, such as museums, theatres, festivals, and historical monuments. One of the most emblematic buildings is the Cathedral of Santa Ana, which dates back to the 15th century and combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassical styles. Another must-see is the Casa de Colón, the former residence of Christopher Columbus, where you can learn about his voyages and the history of the island.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is also a paradise for food lovers, as it boasts a variety of restaurants, markets, and cafes that serve local and international cuisine. You can enjoy the fresh seafood, the traditional dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, the exotic fruits, and the delicious desserts, such as bienmesabe (almond cream). You can also taste the famous Canarian wines, which have a distinctive flavour due to the volcanic soil and the microclimate of the island.
The beach that has it all
Las Canteras, the main beach of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is not only one of the best beaches in Spain, but also one of the most diverse and lively. It stretches for more than 3 kilometres along the coast, offering a variety of activities and services for all ages and preferences. You can swim, surf, snorkel, kayak, or simply relax on the golden sand. You can also walk along the promenade, where you will find shops, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. You can also admire the natural reef that protects the beach from the waves and hosts a rich marine life.
Las Canteras is also a place where you can enjoy the culture and the atmosphere of the city, as it hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Carnival, which takes place in February or March and attracts thousands of visitors with its colourful costumes, music, and parades. Another highlight is the International Film Festival, which showcases the best of the cinema industry and features screenings, workshops, and awards.
The island of contrasts
Gran Canaria is often called a “miniature continent” because of its diverse landscapes and climates. You can explore the different regions of the island, each with its own charm and personality. You can visit the south, where you will find the most touristy and sunny areas, such as Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, or Puerto Rico. You can enjoy the spectacular sand dunes, the water parks, the golf courses, and the nightlife.
You can also discover the north, where you will find the most authentic and rural areas, such as Agaete, Arucas, or Teror. You can admire the green valleys, the banana plantations, the white villages, and the traditional architecture. You can also visit the rum distilleries, the cheese factories, and the coffee plantations, where you can sample the local products.
You can also venture into the interior, where you will find the most mountainous and wild areas, such as Tejeda, Artenara, or San Bartolomé de Tirajana. You can hike, bike, or drive through the stunning scenery, which includes volcanic craters, pine forests, ravines, and rock formations. You can also visit the Roque Nublo, the highest peak of the island and a symbol of its identity.
Gran Canaria is an island that will surprise you with its beauty, its culture, and its cuisine. It is a place where you can have fun, relax, and learn. It is a place where you can fall in love.