Fun in Gran Canaria.
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Photo by El coleccionista de instantes via Flickr.
The Canary Islands – famous for their year-round climate, and as far as I’m concerned, that’s a good excuse to visit!
Gran Canaria is the second most populated of the island group, and is volcanic in nature, with a fantastic contrast of lunar landscape, against lush, green vegetation and golden sand.
Flights to Las Palmas are regular, with fantastic deals to be had. Why not combine your flight with great-value added extras, saving you time and money before you leave. Check out parking at Gatwick, with a handy shuttle to the terminal.
Most of the resorts are in the south, where it’s generally warmer, consisting of Playa Del Ingles, Maspalomas and Puerto Rico – all offering something a little different.
The capital, Las Palmas, has a large port and many shops for your big-name shopping fix!
Now onto the resorts ….
Playa Del Ingles, known as Englishman’s Beach, is in the south, near Maspalomas, with easy transportation between both resorts. Nightlife is plentiful and loud in this area, with many bars and restaurants, as well as nightclubs for those wanting to party until dawn. Hire a sun-bed and soak up the sun, or partake in one of the many water-sports on offer – a great cool-down in the intense heat! Boat trips leave the resort regularly, giving you a chance to take in the picturesque coastline whilst on the open sea. If you’re wanting something a little more cultural, head to Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria’s most famous landmark. Standing at 1813 metres above sea level, this monolith is known as Rock Cloud – a fantastic place to visit.
Next is Maspalomas, famous for its tall sand dunes. The oldest tourist area in the south, the nightlife here isn’t as raucous as its neighbour, but easily accessible if you want it. The town has a tall lighthouse on the southern-most tip, named El Faro De Maspalomas – a wonderful photographic memory.
Photo by El coleccionista de instantes via Flickr.
On to Puerto Rico, with its enviable position, closest to Africa, meaning a much more constant temperature. The resort’s sandy beach is the main day-time focus, with water-sports available, boat trips leaving the resort’s harbour and lots of shops and restaurants to explore. Shopping is a highlight here, with Europa Shopping Centre and Pasarela Centre, both only too happy to take your Euros! This is where the money saved from your pre-booked extras will come in handy – try Stansted airport parking and treat yourself!
The island more to offer than beach fun and shopping, for those wanting culture and architecture, Gran Canaria doesn’t disappoint. Visit Las Palmas and head to Casa De Colon, where Christopher Columbus stayed in 1492. Here you can learn all about Colombus’ voyages in the museum.
If it’s nature you’re more interested in, the island is rich in exotic fauna and flora, against dramatic mountains and volcanic craters. Just north of Maspalomas is Palmitos Parque, a tropical area with many species of birds and flowers – a great way to explore the nature of this picturesque island.
With the varied nightlife on offer, you’re sure to be kept amused when the sun sets, with a great opportunity to try some traditional food, Canarian potatoes are particularly delicious with mojo sauce – yum!
For everything a summer holiday should have, Gran Canaria delivers. Airport extras make travelling less stressful and save you precious Euros too, give Manchester airport parking a try and see for yourself.
Gran Canaria isn’t just a summer destination, but this year, it’s one that should definitely be on your list.
Photo by El coleccionista de instantes via Flickr.
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*Please remember all photos on this website, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted and property of Beers and Beans Travel Website, Nariko’ s Nest Weddings & Bethany Salvon. Please do not use them without my permission. If you do want to use one of them please contact me first because I do love to share and I would be flattered. Thanks!