4:53pm Friday 25th June 2010
Magnificent Gran Canaria is the third largest of the Canary Islands located off the North West coast of Africa. The island has vast variation throughout from lush forestlands and inland mountainous ranges to craggy rocks and rolling sand dunes, it's little wonder this island is sometimes referred to as the 'mini continent'.
The capital of this island is Las Palmas situated on the north eastern tip and makes an interesting and varied base for your Gran Canaria holidays. With the fantastic shopping and dining facilities that you world expect from the capital of an island you really are spoilt for choice here with everything from traditional stores selling hand crafted souvenirs to chic boutiques showcasing designer labels You then have the old town which is full of culture and heritage and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. If this isn't enough to tempt you there is the added bonus of two stunning sandy beaches to choose between during your stay enabling you to unwind on the golden sands and take a refreshing dip in the sea by day and then enjoy the atmospheric city life on an evening.
Although the capital is in the north of Gran Canaria the majority of travellers spend their holidays in the south of the island with its warmer drier climate that can be enjoyed all year round. The largest resort is Playa del Ingles and is extremely popular with the 18-30 crowd heading here to enjoy Pacha and Cream nightclubs. Families also holiday here to enjoy the fantastic stretch of golden beach which has been awarded the European Blue Flag for cleanliness. Maspalomas just along the coast is renowned for its high impressive sand dunes which attract a flurry of spectators from all over the island. A camel trek is the best way to enjoy these magnificent dunes and uses a lot less energy than pulling on a pair of hiking boots. Maspalomas is much quieter than its noisy neighbour but does have a small assortment of bars and restaurants to be enjoyed on an evening. Once a sleepy little fishing village the resort of Puerto Rico has now evolved into a modern and lively tourist resort. If you spend your Gran Canaria holidays here you can stroll along the picturesque harbour admiring the luxury yachts that bob gently from side to side or you may even take one of the many pleasure boat rides that are offered. The beach of the resort is usually busy with its golden sands and fun packed water sports along the coastline. For a taste of something different there are numerous fantastic shopping centres dotted around the resort to be explored. Evenings offer great diversification with bars and clubs to suit all tastes as well as delicious restaurants serving cuisine e for every palette.
There is so much more to Gran Canaria holidays than lazing on the beach all day or by the hotel pool, although this is certainly a good way to start. The selection of day trips and excursions that can be taken on this magnificent island just adds to its appeal. There is so much to participate in whilst you are here from horse riding and go-karting to a selection of three water parks, and that's not all. There are dolphin and whale spotting trips, camel treks across the magical dunes along with forest and mountain trails to name just a few.
As with the resorts and excursions that are on offer in Gran Canaria the accommodation is just as varied and suitable for all budgets. Some fantastic self catering apartments can be found around the island as well as family hotels, luxurious hotels and basic bed and breakfast resides. Whatever your taste and your budget you certainly will enjoy your holidays here.
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