Gran Canaria – Continent in miniature
Head to a place where diverse landscapes meet – arid deserts, lush palm groves, steep mountains and endless beaches. Welcome to Gran Canaria, the third largest island in the Canary Archipelago, which has rightly earned the nickname ‘the continent in miniature’. Gran Canaria will captivate you with its natural diversity, rich history, lively towns and peaceful villages where time has stood still.
The heart of the island is its mountainous interior with deep valleys and picturesque villages such as Tejeda, Artenara and Fataga. It is here that you will experience the authentic atmosphere of the Canary Islands with its traditional houses, churches and markets. The highest mountain is the Pico de las Nieves (1949 m), which offers breathtaking views of half the island and distant Teide on Tenerife in clear weather. The slopes of the mountains are dotted with numerous gorges and canyons where hikers will find plenty to do.
The northern coast of Gran Canaria is greener and wetter. The capital, Las Palmas, offers a mix of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, bustling cafes and historic sites like Santa Ana Cathedral. Nearby is the former governor’s mansion, Casa de Colón, where Christopher Columbus himself is said to have stayed. The surrounding area of Las Palmas is adorned with banana plantations and picturesque villages such as historic Gáldar with its markets and archaeological museum in the Cueva Pintada cave.
The south of the island, on the other hand, is a paradise of sun and beaches. Miles of fine golden sand line the resorts of Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas and Puerto Rico. In between are the unique sand dunes of Maspalomas, reminiscent of the Sahara. A walk among the dunes at sunset, when the sand turns red, is an unforgettable experience. Near the dunes lies the picturesque port of Puerto de Mogán, nicknamed “Little Venice” for its many canals and bridges.
Gran Canaria also offers many other attractions. Discover the Jardín Canario, Spain’s largest botanical garden with endemic plants. Visit the crocodile park in Agüimes or the palm oasis in the Barranco de Guayadeque valley. Admire the monumental rock massif of Roque Nublo, symbol of the island. Or explore the caves and the remains of indigenous people in the Roque Bentayga Archaeological Park.
The climate in Gran Canaria is stable and pleasant all year round. Temperatures soar to tropical levels of around 28°C in summer, while winter temperatures rarely drop below 20°C. Even in the coldest months there are more sunny days than in continental Europe. This makes Gran Canaria a popular destination for summer and winter seaside holidays and active exploration.
Whether you’re looking to laze on the beaches, hike through the wilderness, explore historic towns and villages, or enjoy a gourmet experience, Gran Canaria has a diversity you won’t find anywhere else. Discover the beauty of an island that offers the whole world in one – Gran Canaria is a continent unto itself!
