Your Guide to Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is the third-largest island in the Canaries and is situated between Tenerife and Fuerteventura. The island enjoys an all-year-round sunny climate that is ideal for both summer and winter sun breaks. There are so many things to do in Gran Canaria, from relaxing on its fantastic beaches to exploring the diverse landscape, making it the ideal destination for all that who visit, including those who are looking for luxury holidays.

Things to do 

Water Sports 

One of the most popular activities on the island is water sports, with a good selection of officially recognised scuba diving schools around the island willing to help you explore the amazing crystal blue waters home to reefs and wrecks. Surfing, windsurfing and kitesurf are also popular pastimes on the island with several kites and windsurf schools offering courses for every level students.

Experience the Cuisine 

Due to its location, the cuisine in Gran Canaria is a blend of Spanish and African foods mainly based on fresh fish and local vegetables, and to wash it all down, rum is extremely popular, particularly Arucas rum which is distilled in Las Palmas the capital of Gran Canaria.

Explore the Sand Dunes 

In the south of the island, there is a spectacular set of dunes by the sea, which are called the dunes of Maspalomas. It is a very characteristic place of the Canarian archipelago, with the dunes originating millions of years ago as a result of crushed organisms that the wind has been spreading over a large area ever since. Many see its great similarity with some deserts, with the exception being these dunes are located right by the ocean and has a commercial promenade runnin alongside it. The dunes go all the way from the Maspalomas’ lighthouse to Playa del Ingles, and along its course, you’ll be able to see different landscapes and formations. It is located in the mouths of the Fataga, Ayagaures and Chamoriscán ravines.

Take a Hike 

If you enjoy hiking or walking then a day trip to Roque Nublo is a must. The Roque Nublo is a unique rock formation that truly is a sight to see. At 70 meters tall, the red basaltic monolith is the most dramatic formation on the island. Translated it means “cloudy rock” and after a short hike, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding area. The rocky landscape is dotted with pine trees and shrubbery and drops off into cliffs.

Go Whale Watching 

One of the most popular activities is the boat trip which takes you out to sea to witness dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. This 3-hour trip goes daily from the harbour of Puerto Rico and is worth every euro.

Essential Information 

Language

Spanish, with English widely spoken in all the major resorts

Passport and Visas

UK citizens are only allowed to spend a maximum of 90 days in Gran Canaria in any period of 180 days without a visa. Your passport must be valid for more than six months.

Time Difference

There is no time difference between Gran Canaria and the United Kingdom, so no jetlag – hooray!

Flight Time

Between 4 hours and 30 minutes and 5 hours and 30 minutes depending on where you depart from in the UK.

Currency

Euros – either change your money before you travel or when you arrive in Gran Canaria. Do not exchange at the airport as the rates are much less competitive.

Weather

The lowest average temperature is in January and February when it is 23°C, still more than warm enough to enjoy some fun in the sun. The highest average temperature is in July, August and September when it is 29°C. The best time to go is May and June when it is hot without being unbearably so.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts 

Some of the most popular luxury resorts in Gran Canaria are located in the south of the island. This is where you’ll find beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and a range of activities to keep you entertained. If you’re looking for luxury holidays in Gran Canaria, then one of these resorts or hotels could be perfect for you.

The Ritz-Carlton is located on the beachfront in the exclusive area of Anfi del Mar. This resort offers a range of facilities and services that are designed to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. There are three outdoor swimming pools, a spa and fitness centre and a range of restaurants and bars.

The Melia Tamarindos is another luxury resort in Gran Canaria that is located on the beachfront. This resort also offers a range of facilities and services to make your stay as enjoyable as possible, including an outdoor swimming pool and a spa.

The Gran Hotel Residencia is another luxury hotel in Gran Canaria that offers a range of facilities and services to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. The hotel is located close to the beachfront, and there are many restaurants and bars in the vicinity. The rooms at the Gran Hotel Residencia are spacious and luxurious, and the views from the hotel are simply stunning.

We hope this guide helped you decide whether a luxury holiday to Gran Canaria should be on your travel list for 2022 or maybe 2023.