Gran Canaria - Haven for adventure-seekers

1
Gran Canaria
Haven for adventure-seekers
2
Gran Canaria is more like three continents on one
island. Blessed with a diverse topography, the
third largest island in the Canaries is also
surrounded by 236 kilometers of coastline. From
the ever-changing dunes to the lush pine forests
and dramatic volcanic landscape, the island is
also home to half of the population of the Canary
Islands and a haven for adventure-seekers.
3
UNESCO Biosphere Reserves
Parks and Monuments
The rare geography of Gran Canaria allows guests
to connect with nature. Furthermore, the island
serves as a habitat for protected species. It
also cradles many of the worlds best
archaeological and geological treasures with 4
National Parks and 10 National Monuments.
4
Tamadlaba Natural Park (Parque Natura de Tamadaba)
One of the biggest Natural Parks in the island
is Tamanaba Natural Park. It covers the
northwestern town of Agaete and runs southward to
the towns of Artenara and La Aldea de San
Nicolas. The picturesque web of mountains,
valleys, and slopes are homes to endemic species
of pines, cacti, and birds.
Roque Nublo
Going inland, visitors could take on a
soul-searching hike up to the famous Natural
Monument of Roque Nublo. Standing at 80 meters
tall at the center of the island, this is the
worlds largest free-standing rock. From this
vantage point, guests could see a breathtaking
view of Gran Canaria and the Teide Volcano on the
neighboring island of Tenerife. The iconic rock
in the clouds and the Tejeda Basin below are
parts of the larger Parque Rural del Nublo, one
of the two protected Rural Parks on the island.
Pilancones Natural Park (Parque Natural de
Pilancones)
More panoramic views await further down at the
Pilancones Natural Park in San Bartolome de
Tirajana. Its pine covered peaks are part of
Europes Special Protection Areas for wild birds.
Here, guests could take a deep breath and enjoy
the crisp cool breeze while listening to the
birds melodic chirps.
5
Natural Reserves and Protected Landscapes
In large part, due to the efforts of UNESCO and
the local government, Gran Canaria remains
unspoiled with 8 Natural Reserves, 7 Protected
Landscapes, and 4 Locations of Special Interests.
6
Maspalomas Sand Dunes (Dunas de Maspalomas)
On the South, guests stepping into the Maspalomas
Sand Dunes  feast on the enormous expanse of
sands and hills that change daily. Located near
the Northern coast of Africa, the dunes are also
referred to as the mini-Sahara Desert of the
archipelago. From the coastline, this Special
Nature Reserve stretches some 3 kilometers
inland. Although smaller than the Sahara, the
tranquility and vastness of the open space still
make one feel like a tiny speck while marveling
at the beauty of the landscape.
Integral Natural Reserve of Inagua (Reserva
Natural Integral de Inagua)
Fataga
Southwest of Roque Nublo, the mountains of
Inagua, Pajonales, and Ojeda is the site of the
Integral Natural Reserve of Inagua. An
unforgettable adventure awaits bikers and hikers
through designated trails. Among the diverse
flora and fauna, guests might also catch a
glimpse of endangered endemic species of the
island. Set among a web of mountains, the reserve
also offers a marvelous view of the cliffs and
hills.
The historical village of Fataga sits in a valley
amidst cliffs and palm trees. Known as the valley
of a thousand palms, the site is also one of the
Protected Landscapes of Gran Canaria. The pride
and joy of the town of San Bartolome de Tirajana
one of the most beautiful villages on the
island. Walking around the idyllic village, it is
hard to imagine that Fataga was once a
battleground. It was here where some of the most
notable battles between the Guanches and
Spaniards took place during the 16th century.
Today, Fataga is a candidate for UNESCO World
Heritage site.
7
Beaches and Water Sports
Gran Canaria, like its neighboring islands in the
Canaries, is a paradise for beach lovers. With 60
kilometers of beaches all around the island,
there are choices for all kinds of travelers.
Some beaches have calm waters that is perfect for
children, others would offer surfers quite a
challenge. While some beaches are full of
visitors, there are others that no one seems to
know about. For naturists, there are also
designated nudist beaches.
8
Playa de Maspalomas
The sand dunes of Gran Canaria extends out to
Playa de Maspalomas and the calm sea. Further
along is the less crowded Playa del Ingles.
During sunsets, the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse
is the perfect backdrop amidst the golden sky.
While some people might go back to their resorts,
this is also when the beach comes to life with
its renowned nightlife.
Playa de Las Canteras
Crowning the island in the northeast is the urban
beach of Playa de Las Canteras. No one can miss
the longest beach on Gran Canaria which is right
around the corner from the capital city of Las
Palmas. Its long stretch of well-kept golden sand
and ever tranquil turquoise waters paired with a
long shop-lined promenade make it ideal for
swimming, sunbathing, strolling, and shopping.
9
Playa de Mogan
Puerto de Mogan, known as the Little Venice of
Gran Canaria, is a picturesque town in the
southwest. The houses, waterways and small
bridges are all reminiscent of old Italian and
Spanish architecture. Those seeking a taste of
Canarian style living by the beach should
visit Playa de Mogan. The sheltered water in
Mogan makes it a perfect snorkeling spot. From
the surface, snorkelers should delight in the
thriving and colorful marine life. If that is not
enough, then a claustrophobic adventure awaits
those coming onboard a yellow submarine.
Sandwiched between Puerto Rico and Puerto de
Mogan is the man-made beach of Playa de Amadores.
Although the literal translation of the name is
Lovers Beach, this 800-meter expanse of
Carribean sand is a favorite family destination.
Shaped like the crescent moon, the beach features
clear, calm waters and wide, sandy shores. Being
sheltered from the North Atlantic currents and
waves, the water is ideal for children. To make
things more exciting, there are numerous water
activities such as jet skiing and water biking to
add to the thrill.
Playa de Amadores
10
Aquatic and Theme Parks
Aside from family-friendly beaches, there are
aquatic and theme parks on the island that are
well worth a visit. Children and adults alike can
experience top rated fun and excitement in these
carefully designed family attractions.
11
Palmitos Park
Located in the center of the island, Palmitos
Park in Maspalomas is the top family attraction
in Gran Canaria. Boasting of over 1,500 bird
species and over a thousand palm trees, this
enormous park is almost impossible to complete in
one day. Visited by thousands of visitors daily,
parrots perform amazing tricks that never fails
to elicit laughs from the crowd. This man-made
tropical oasis also features dolphins
entertaining guests with their incredible feats.
Aqualand Aquasur
Sioux City Park
Thrill-seekers would have their fill for the day
at the second largest water park in the Canaries.
Aqualand Aquasur in Maspalomas features over 30
different slides and 15 other attractions. Theres
no limit to how loud one could shout as they
take on the group slides in the Mamut or twin
slides in the Tornado. For more
adrenaline-pumping thrills, theres the option to
go solo in any of the three Aquamania slides or
in the Anaconda.
For a completely different experience, the Sioux
City Park in San Bartolome de Tirajana is a stark
contrast to the sea surrounding the island.
Relive the era of the wild west and watch actors
lasso and ride horses like real cowboys do. It is
entertainment taken to the next level with duel
fights, bank robberies, knives, axe-throwing and
even cowboy dancing. Here, visitors could say
hello to the most poisonous snakes, spiders, and
reptiles in an exhibition. Tourists also feel
young at heart as they dress up as cowboys and
take part in one of the shows featuring horses.
12
Cultural Hot Spots
Historical Sites
A trip to Gran Canaria is like a journey back in
time. This crossroad of an island has merged
multiple cultures from a thousand different
places. At present, a glimpse into its
precolonial and colonial past still cling tightly
around its most valued architectures and villages.
13
Vegueta
We start off in the streets of Vegueta, a
captivating old town south of Las Palmas. Go back
in time to the 15th and 16th century while taking
a lazy afternoon stroll on its cobbled streets
under a warm friendly sun surrounded by the
alluring Spanish architectures. Gothic and
Neoclassical architecture collide at the Las
Palmas Cathedral, one of the most important
landmarks of Vegueta. The towns marketplace is a
mixture of the past and the present with many
products found on the island, as well as modern
bars and restaurants.
Santa Ana Cathedral
Mogan
A prominent architectural and historical building
at the heart of Vegueta is the Santa Ana
Cathedral, which had taken 4 centuries to
complete. Typical of most Canarian architecture,
it features a beautiful blending of Gothic,
Renaissance, and Neoclassical style. Outside,
the twin towers rise above neighboring buildings,
as if to pronounce its importance. Even more
impressive is the interior that is adorned by
sacred artifacts, historical paintings, and
noteworthy sculptures.
Lastly, a drive south to the picturesque Mogan
reveals a small fishing village known as the
Little Venice of Gran Canaria. The rich waters
attracted fishermen long ago and led the way to
the building of a historical port. This small
rural village is framed by trees and buildings
that exhibit Spanish and Italian structural
designs. It is embellished with narrow waterways,
lovely bridges and flowers hanging from colonial
houses balconies.
14
Archeological Sites
The pre-Hispanic past of Gran Canaria is hardly a
mystery. The network of archaeological sites on
the island is open for everyone to examine. Each
little nook and cranny give visitors a front seat
to the unfolding of its rich cultural ancestry.
15
Barranco de Guayadeque
Following a spiral path to the east of the
island, travelers will find Barranco de
Guayadeque. Its ravines are a mere 30-minute
drive from Maspalomas and situated between
Aguimes and Ingenio. The trip takes us to one of
the most stunning natural landscapes sheltering
the most number of archaeological sites on the
island.
Cueva de Pintada
Artenara
To spot the most important archeological site in
the Canaries, tourists could stopover at Cueva de
Pintada  in Galdar, north of the island.
Discovered in 1873, one would feel like hopping
on a time machine upon seeing its 60 buildings
and museum. The cave walls are painted with
black, red, and white geometric figures, all
believed to be symbolic and functional to
aboriginals. It also houses typical ancient
artwork and household items, giving us a peek at
the simple lifestyle of the islands original
inhabitants.
To see actual locals still living in the most
beautiful cave dwellings, one must drive up a
winding road to Artenara, the most elevated
village in Gran Canaria. The village sitting on
the hillside offers fabulous views of the
Tamadaba Natural Park, Roque Bentayga and Roque
Nublo. Upon arrival, visitors are also welcomed
by a Christ statue with widespread arms. One of
the oldest villages in the Canaries, Artenara
still observes a yearly procession in honor of
the Virgen de la Cuevita. Aside from ancient
churches built with red stones from Tamadaba,
this serene mountain village nestles Acusa, a
site with immense archaeological importance.
16
Museums
The best way to get lost and learn all about the
profound history of Gran Canaria is by visiting
the islands famous museums. Each offers a lens
that would take visitors back in time, from the
ancient times to the colonial periods.
17
Casa de Colon
Casa de Colon or Columbus House was allegedly a
temporary dwelling of Christopher Columbus in
1492 while his ship was being repaired. Set in
Las Palmas, it is reminiscent of old Canarian
architecture with its huge courtyard, and wooden
ceilings and balconies. Within its walls, 15th
and 16th-century paintings tell a vivid story of
how Gran Canaria became the gateway to America.
Now, more than five centuries old, the house is
partly a library, a museum, and a place of
seminars.
Canary Museum
For a glimpse into its pre-Hispanic past,
tourists could pay a visit to Museo Canario, also
in Vegueta. Built in 1879, it has been a major
resource of valuable historical and
ethnographical information about the
Canaries. Once inside, visitors would learn the
scientific phenomenon that made the Canary
Islands the paradise that it is today. It even
takes visitors as far as closely examining the
skulls of the islands ancient inhabitants.
Tejeda History and Traditions Museum
Getting immersed in real Canarian rural living is
possible if you pay a visit to any of its 21
municipalities. For instance, Tejeda is known for
marvelous landscapes and delectable
almond-infused desserts. But to learn all about
the village, Tejeda History and Traditions Museum
is a must visit. Here, visitors get a closer and
more interactive experience on rural Canarian
living in the audiovisual room.
18
Dine and Drink in Paradise
Centuries of Spanish, African, and Latin American
influences baked Gran Canarias diverse
gastronomy. Its bountiful lands make way for
plenty of tropical fruits and vegetation.
Meanwhile, the surrounding sea serves as an
unlimited resource of fresh fishes and other
seafood. No matter where you dine on the island,
youll always be in for palate-pleasing surprises.
19
Let Me Take U (Tejeda)
Visitors who took a trip to the mountainous
village of Tejeda have raved about Let Me Take U
or Dejate Llevar. This top-rated restaurant is a
little out of the way, but definitely well worth
the trip. The narrow and winding drive or walk is
rewarded by a superb homey ambiance and excellent
food. Try their house special, the Peruvian
ceviche. Its a salad made only with the freshest
ingredients, same with all the dishes in their
menu. Delight in the company of warm and
welcoming owners, while enjoying a meat croquette
or the best mussels and mojos in town.
LoLa (Playa del Ingles)
Que Leche (Las Palmas)
Like finding an oasis in the middle of the
desert, LoLa quenches every diners thirst for
skillfully cooked food. This hidden gem in Playa
del Ingles is a favorite dine and wine spot for
many tourists. The friendly staff, lovely
atmosphere and exquisite menu leave everyone
hungry for more. LoLa offers International,
Mediterranean, and Vegan-friendly food options.
Indulge in their red mullet, octopus carpaccio or
special meatballs. Better yet, end a perfect
evening by taking a pick from their good
selection of wine.
No foodie will ever get disappointed by heading
up north and dining in Que Leche, a small
unpretentious restaurant in the city of Las
Palmas. This cozy diner serves mainly Spanish,
European and Mediterranean cuisines. People make
their way to Que Leche for their fill of tapas
meal or their fish dish. Others will never leave
without tasting one if its dessert offerings. Be
warned though. The tables inside could easily get
filled, but dining by a picturesque street isnt
exactly a bad idea.
20
Where to Stay in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria has been a favorite tourist
destination for individuals, couples, and
families in and around Europe. Consequently,
thousands of accommodations have also sprung up
over the years. People who choose to stay have a
myriad of options ranging from the cheapest
apartment to the most luxurious hotels.
21
Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia
For 5 star hotels, Seaside Grand Hotel in
Maspalomas has made a name for itself. The
impeccable service, complete amenities, and
delectable food makes it a true home away from
home. As guests settle in their well-maintained
rooms, they are treated to world class service by
their attentive, but never intrusive
staff. Theres plenty of activities for children
apart from its good-sized pool. For those who
wish to explore, trips around the island could be
arranged by the hotel. The delicious breakfast
and dinner buffet, as well as the weekly barbecue
by the pool bar, are some of the highlights of
most tourists stay.
Hotel Riu Palace Meloneras Resort
Santa Catalina Hotel
In Las Palmas, one of the best value options is
Santa Catalina Hotel. Situated in front of a
lovely park and off the main street, it is
accessible as it is secluded. Beyond the crisp
and clean sheets, the old-style architecture adds
to its charm. A mere 5-minute walk from the
marina, there are plenty of dining choices around
the tree-line space. Their polite and
knowledgeable staff are always ready to lend a
hand, making guests stay truly pleasant.
Another highly recommended hotel in Maspalomas is
Hotel Riu Palace Meloneras Resort. Offering a
superb view of the sea, its rooms are elegant and
spotless. Just minutes away from the Meloneras
beach, its a great place to stay after a full
day of outdoor adventures. The hotels complete
amenities include outdoor pools, gardens, and a
fitness center. Guests could enjoy a sumptuous
meal in the hotels restaurant. The excellent
staff will make guests feel welcome from the time
they arrive and to the time they pack their
luggage and leave.
22
Getting to and Around the Island
To start a perfect travel plan to Gran Canaria,
flights may be booked from any of the airlines
that operate across the UK. There are Ryanair,
Monarch, EasyJet and British Airways to name a
few. Getting to the island via boat is also
pretty popular. Contact any of the maritime
companies to secure a ferry ride. This is also a
good option to transfer from one Canary island to
another
23
Car Hire
Those who wish to follow their own pace and path
may opt to rent a car from the various car hire
companies. All one needs to do is book ahead
online, or contact them once at the airport or at
the hotel.
Taxi
For short distance travels, another convenient
option is to grab a cab. Taxi fares are regulated
and are considerably cheap depending on how far
the destination is. The fare from the airport
costs around 30 to Las Palmas and about 50 to
Maspalomas. Meanwhile, the fare from the airport
to Mogan is about 70.
Bus
Perhaps the most popular option for many tourists
who wish to experience the true Canarian culture
is to take the bus. Las Palmas has one of the
most advanced bus systems on the island. There
are also interurban buses with regular schedules
that could take anyone to any of the main
terminals in the island. Look up Global buses
(intercity buses) and Guaguas (urban buses)
online. Remember to always have some change
handy. For those carrying an Android smartphone
or an iPhone, a free app with timetables of bus
schedules is downloadable.
24
Health and Safety
When on a holiday trip, the last thing anyone
wants to happen is to spoil the fun due to health
and safety reasons. So just like any tourist
destination, it is a good idea learn the health
and safety hazards one might expect. Gran
Canaria, however, is as safe as any island in the
middle of the Atlantic Ocean can get.
25
Medical Assistance
Overall Safety
There have been no incidents of shark attacks,
poisonous snake bites, earthquakes or hurricanes
here. There are also no civic threats and the
locals are pretty warm and welcoming. The crime
rates are low, but its good to take
precautionary measures when alone at night. Its
predominantly a gun-free island, same as the rest
of the Canaries. When driving a rented car,
remember to drive on the right and choose to
occupy the outer lanes on roundabouts. When
swimming or surfing, always heed the flag
warnings on the shore. There are rare times when
jellyfishes abound in the sea. Although
lifeguards are on duty on most beaches, it is
best to be careful.
In case medical attention is indeed necessary,
dial 112 to call an ambulance or drive straight
to the emergency departments of hospitals.
Europeans may utilize their European Health
Insurance Card. Meanwhile, citizens from other
countries may need to do advance research to find
out if their health cards would be
useful. General travel related health
precautions are always handy. For instance,
hiking means one would need to bring ample water
to avoid dehydration. There are no required
vaccinations before entering Spain. But the World
Health Organizations advice is to get standard
shots for certain diseases such as measles and
polio.
26
Find more in Gran Canaria
Check our Website
www.canaryislandsinfo.co.uk