More and more people are looking to escape the cold and enjoy the experience of discovering Gran Canaria in winter. Low temperatures mean indoor plans and going outside wrapped in endless layers of clothing. At those times, we always fantasise about once again enjoying the pleasures offered by a paradise like this exclusive island in the Canary archipelago. It is widely known for its white-sand and black-lava beaches. However, its landscape also has a special charm thanks to a rural heart that not everyone knows about and that wins people over at first sight.
Mild temperatures all year round
A winter holiday in Gran Canaria, for example at Christmas, can be a much-needed break. A boost to help you face the long cold months remaining until spring returns. A season that, by the way, is always guaranteed in the Canary Islands, since you will enjoy a pleasant mild climate with an average of 20°C in winter and very little rainfall. As an interesting fact, the Canary Islands record more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year.
If the idea of a getaway is already on your mind, it is worth noting that the coldest month in Gran Canaria is January. Even so, you will enjoy average minimum temperatures of 16°C and maximum temperatures of 21°C. Ideal for leaving your coat hanging up for a few days.
You can practise your favourite sport outdoors
Thanks to this, you have a wide range of leisure options that during these months in your city you could only imagine. To begin with, you can let yourself be captivated by the island’s landscapes. Discovering its attractive natural environment through hiking or cycling excursions can be a unique experience.
But if you are looking for even more adrenaline, Gran Canaria is a highly valued destination for lovers of outdoor sports. Thanks to its enviable climate, adventurers from all over the world come to its beaches to enjoy water sports such as surfing, windsurfing or diving, among many other activities. Of course, you should not overlook the possibility of a boat trip to visit other islands and discover their charm. Nor should you miss the chance to rent a segway to sightsee around the town centre.
You can go to the beach at any time
Although Gran Canaria has a very varied tourist offering, what people inevitably think of when they picture this attractive island is its beaches. Beyond its privileged climate, it has beaches for every taste. You can choose between white, golden or black volcanic sand. All of them are bathed by crystal-clear waters. There are beaches for fun family days with every comfort, beaches designed for water sports and others that are wild and perfect for strengthening your connection with nature. And the best part is that they are available all year round with exceptional temperatures, waiting for you to enjoy them.
The most popular are Las Canteras as a city beach, Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, Puerto Rico and Amadores, but the list goes on. Gran Canaria has the privilege of offering whatever kind of beach you are looking for.
Enjoy its festivals and traditions in winter
Travelling also means soaking up local culture. Gran Canaria is a land of deeply rooted traditions where there is always something to celebrate. Pilgrimages and traditional festivals are held across its municipalities, but one thing that can never be missing is Carnival. It is the island’s most iconic celebration, with a history going back more than 500 years.
Among the popular winter festivities are the Santa Lucía celebrations, which begin in the second week of December and have great cultural and traditional value. Another of the most eagerly awaited events of the year is the Almond Blossom Festival. These take place in the municipalities of Tejeda and Valsequillo and are celebrated in February, coinciding with the almond trees in bloom.
And we cannot forget Carnival, one of the celebrations with the most history and strongest character, held in almost every corner of the islands and beginning in February. It was declared an International Tourist Interest Festival in 2023. This is when spectacular parades take place, accompanied by murgas, comparsas and many costumed participants dancing to the rhythm of batucadas and the music from the floats. These are undoubtedly the most popular festivities and are well worth visiting for their colourful shows in a safe and relaxed atmosphere. They take place in different parts of the island, especially the two main ones: the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival and the Maspalomas Carnival.
What if you feel like going hiking?
If festivals are not your thing, in Gran Canaria you can connect with nature through hiking routes. All of them are perfectly signposted so that you can discover landscapes declared biosphere reserves. There are countless trails, but the most sought-after because of their spectacular scenery are Barranco de Azuaje, Circular Montaña Alta-Monte Pavón, Circular Tamadaba and Sendero El Álamo. Don’t forget your camera.
Enjoy the best hotels
To make the experience even more complete, do not compromise when choosing the best place to stay. Your visit will be more enjoyable if you rely on the services of a good hotel.
In San Agustín
If you want to stay in this relaxed tourist destination close to the sea, the most recommended hotels are Corallium Beach by Lopesan Hotels and Abora Interclub Atlantic by Lopesan Hotels. Whatever option you choose will be excellent if your intention is to enjoy the astonishing natural beauty of one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
Playa del Inglés
In one of the best-known areas on the south coast of Gran Canaria, especially for its privileged climate and year-round sunshine. In Playa del Inglés, you can find amazing options for all tastes, such as the establishments under the Abora by Lopesan Hotels brand, including Abora Continental, Abora Catarina and Abora Buenaventura by Lopesan Hotels. Or, if you prefer to embark on an Adults Only trip, you can choose Corallium Dunamar by Lopesan Hotels.
Meloneras
Meloneras is considered one of the most attractive tourist hubs in Gran Canaria because of its privileged sea views and its proximity to the idyllic Maspalomas Dunes. In addition, its seafront promenade offers the chance to enjoy a pleasant walk during the day and lively nightlife in its many venues and establishments. The hotels most highly rated by guests in this area are the exotic Lopesan Baobab Resort, the luxurious Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort & Thalasso and the fabulous Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa.
Maspalomas
If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax, you can choose to stay near the Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve, whose ecosystem stands out for its scenic beauty. Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to enjoy the extensive dunes and admire the Charca, a resting place for migratory birds from Africa. Here you can rely on the facilities and warm service offered by Kumara Serenoa by Lopesan Hotels, or opt for a holiday with unique views at our Hotel Faro, a Lopesan Collection Hotel.
As you can see, travelling to Gran Canaria in winter can be an experience that is just as special, or even more so, than in summer. Its mild climate and scarce rainfall, its exclusive beaches and its wide range of outdoor sports and traditional festivities are the ingredients you are guaranteed if you decide to pack your bags and enjoy the pleasures of Canarian life. Escape the winter cold in Gran Canaria!
