It is home to almost half the population of the entire Canary Islands, despite being the third largest island in the whole archipelago. The island's amazing beaches, sand dunes, and sun-drenched towns and villages make it a perfect stop for Mediterranean cruise passengers to pretend they're locals. Aside from its sights, Gran Canaria is also known for its culinary offerings. The Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands is known for its magnificent year-round weather, stunning beaches, and dramatic landscape. UNESCO recognized Gran Canaria as a Biosphere Reserve, and Christopher Columbus used it as a provisioning stop during his 15th-century voyages.
This is a list of some of the most significant highlights of Gran Canaria that you should know about.
Please take a tour of the island's inland region to learn about its history and geological diversity. In addition to the Bandama Caldera and the iconic Roque Nublo monolith, there are scenic reminders of the region's natural history throughout the terrain. Take a thrilling 4x4 adventure along rugged mountains and arid moonscapes to enjoy breathtaking views from these rural parks and monuments. You'll find isolated banana plantations, solidified lava streams, and unique flora.
Gran Canaria's cuisine boasts dishes combining African, Spanish, and Latin-American flavors, such as PolvitosUruguayos (light cheesecake with dulce de leche) and chipirones con mojo verde (grilled squid in a herb sauce). If you're on a Canary Island cruise, make sure you try the ultra-fresh tropical fruits.
During a festival in Gran Canaria, the culture is vibrant and colorful. Festivals on Gran Canaria take the form of fiestas or carnivals, which are traditional to the Canary Islands. In the streets, locals in colorful costumes perform humorous and political songs, dancing and dancing through the streets. Local crafts and delicious street foods will also be on sale during fiestas. Children can play games at fiestas while adults can enjoy drinks and watch. Locals and visitors dress in traditional clothing and sing and play musical instruments while walking through town during religious pilgrimages to Gran Canaria each year.
The largest Canary Island, Gran Canaria, has endless things to see and do. There are over 50 beaches in Gran Canaria, along with charming villages, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria's bustling city center, and historic sites like Pueblo Canario. You'll have a great time if you pack your trip with these activities.
At Maspalomas Natural Dune Reserve, an hour from Las Palmas, you'll find vast undulating sand dunes. In addition to sun-seekers, surfers, and occasional nudists, the area was uninhabited until 150 years ago. Ships are still guided to the right path by the 19th-century Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse.
Located in the middle of Gran Canaria, Roque Nublo is an impressive geological formation with a rich history. A protected park area surrounds the 80-meter-high tower. Roque Nublo is a stunning sight that is sure to captivate everyone, including children. There is no doubt that people who are interested in local culture and history will have a more fulfilling experience. There are plenty of activities surrounding the park that people can enjoy for hours or more, even if they only visit for a few minutes.
If you want to explore more of Las Palmas during your city break, it's a great place to go. Despite being on an island, Las Canteras is a famous beach throughout Spain. The Science and Technology Museum and Casa Colon are also great places to visit. Taking a stroll through Vegueta's old town, admiring its architecture, and enjoying a coffee break or lunch on a terrace are some of the delights you can enjoy.
Teror is a charming town in Gran Canaria with beautiful colonial architecture. One of the most beautiful churches on the island is the Basilica de Nuestra Senora delPino. It is a tradition in Teror to celebrate Senora del Pino's birthday every 8th of September with a feast in her honor. In Teror, you'll find architectural gems lining the main square with ornately carved wooden balconies dating back to the 16th century. Sunday mornings are an excellent time for you to be able to admire the bustling market where nuns make and sell local specialties and sweets.
Tejeda is an excellent place to visit if you are hiking to Roque Nublo. It is easy for cruisers to combine both excursions. Located in the center of Gran Canaria, Tejeda is one of the best things to do. Visit Dulceria Nublo for some of the tastiest little cakes in the region once you arrive and take a stroll around the streets. A delicious lunch can also be enjoyed outside at La Tienda de Paco on a sunny day. You can get some delicious garlicky Papas Arrugadas there.
Also read: Best Beaches in the Canary Islands
The best time of year to visit Gran Canaria is always during the summer. During the winter, the island has a favorable climate, even though it is a tropical climate. The rest of Europe is dealing with low temperatures and snow. Depending on your plans, you can enjoy the sun, swim, surf, hike, or practice other sports such as cycling or biking, or surfing.
