An island with more than 60 kilometres of beaches that offers you the chance to savour its unique and exquisite gastronomy based on local produce. It also has a very pleasant spring climate, with a stunning natural setting that attracts more than four million travellers every year. Is it tempting for you? Read on and discover 10 activities in Gran Canaria that we recommend to make the most of your stay.
Visit the dunes of Maspalomas, an unparalleled scenery
In the coastal strip of the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, in the south of the island, you will find a real desert by the sea. Let your inner child come out and let yourself roll down these mountains of sand that form an amazing landscape, declared a Special Nature Reserve in 1994.
In its 404 hectares of extension there is also a pond and a palm grove, which is a refuge for a wide variety of migratory bird species.
Climb the Roque Nublo and enjoy the incredible views
At an altitude of 1813 metres above sea level, this natural monument is part of the rural park of El Nublo. It is in the centre of the island, in the municipality of Tejeda, and is protected by the Biosphere Nature Reserve.
It is well worth completing this uphill hiking route to get a close-up view of this monolith, which is already one of Gran Canaria’s landmarks. The views from this point are impressive, and even on clear days you can see Teide.
Visit Vegueta, living history of Gran Canaria
The third largest island in the archipelago in terms of surface area (1,560 square kilometres), behind Tenerife and Fuerteventura, is also a great place for cultural tourism. If you like to immerse yourself in the history and customs of the places you visit, you should take a stroll through Vegueta, the founding district of Las Palmas.
It is also one of the most famous and emblematic, where several of its most representative buildings and monuments are located. The cathedral of Santa Ana, located in the square of the same name and where you will also find the Town Hall, the Historical Archive, the Casa Regental and the Episcopal Palace, is a must.
Lose yourself in the squares of Espíritu Santo, San Antonio Abad, Pilar Nuevo and Santo Domingo, and stroll along Calle de Los Balcones, where the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno is located.
Visit the street markets of Gran Canaria and discover small treasures.
Another of the activities to do in Gran Canaria and immerse yourself in the idiosyncrasies of the island. You might even have the chance to take home a little treasure as a souvenir. Among the best-known markets are those in Teror, next to the Basílica del Pino, Vega de San Mateo, Moya and Villa de Santa Brígida.
In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria you have the Vegueta craft and culture market, the central market or the flea market, which is held every Sunday in Calle Simón Bolívar, very close to Santa Catalina park.
Water sports, let the sea astonish you
If you are passionate about water sports, Gran Canaria is a place that has a lot to offer you. Due to its particular conditions and location, you can choose from a wide variety of disciplines, such as surfing and windsurfing, water skiing and motorcycling, scuba diving, snorkelling, paragliding… Experience new sensations and release adrenaline in a paradigmatic environment.
Explore the different beaches, there is one for every taste.
The island has around 100 beaches and natural pools, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you’re in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, it’s a good idea to take a stroll along Las Canteras and go as far as La Isleta lighthouse, stopping off for a dip. Las Alcaravaneras is another urban beach that we also recommend you to visit.
If you go out of the city, make a note of San Agustín, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, Pasito Blanco, Anfi del Mar, Puerto de Mogán, Amadores, Tufia, El Confital, Guguy or Güigüi (for many the most paradisiacal of them all), El Agujero, El Pirata or Las Burras.
Seeing dolphins and whales by boat, the best way to see these mammals
At various points in Gran Canaria you will find companies that organise boat trips for whale and dolphin watching. You will undoubtedly find it a very rewarding experience to see bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins and short-finned pilot whales, the most common in this area. Although it is more complicated, it is also possible to see whales and even sharks.
Explore Gran Canaria on foot and discover its magical paths.
A different way of getting to know Gran Canaria is on foot. As well as Roque Nublo, we suggest other routes, such as the one through the Caldera de Bandama, to see the volcano. There are many trails that go through the Doramas Rural Park, full of laurel forests, as well as through the Maspalomas Dunes area. The Fuente de los Azulejos, the Jardín Canario, the Cernícalos ravine or the Pico de las Nieves are some of our recommendations.
Jeep excursion
If you are looking for an exciting jeep experience in Gran Canaria, there are many options available for exploring the island. For example, you can tour the mountainous landscapes and ravines of the island’s interior, visit the beautiful rural villages, or even enjoy a drive along the coast to take in the breathtaking views of the sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience an exciting adventure where you can experience first-hand the natural beauty of Gran Canaria.
Camel ride in the Maspalomas Dunes
One of the most fun activities in Gran Canaria is a camel or dromedary ride through the Maspalomas Dunes. This is one of the best excursions in Gran Canaria to get to know the peculiar characteristics of the ecosystems found in the Maspalomas Dunes. In addition, along the route, you will be able to access the protected areas that cannot be visited in any other way.
Taste the local gastronomy and discover new flavours
To end this decalogue of recommendations, we would like to encourage you to try the typical Canarian dishes and discover new flavours. Typical dishes from Gran Canaria are papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), gofio or the different mojos, try them all! And don’t leave without having a good bienmesabe (a sweet made from ground almonds, honey and sugar). Watercress stew, puchero canario, ropavieja, sancocho and the receta parrandera or marinated pork are some of the other creations of the Canary Islands that you should put on your list.
If you follow our recommendations for activities in Gran Canaria, we are convinced that you will have an unforgettable experience on the island.
Where to stay in Gran Canaria?
If you already have ideas of what to do in Gran Canaria but have not yet chosen where to stay, the Lopesan Group hotels are a perfect choice to enjoy this unique destination.
If you would like to know more information about our various services, please contact us, we will be delighted to help you enjoy your stay in Gran Canaria with Lopesan.
