The best things to do in Gran Canaria: beach, mountains and food

In just over fifteen hundred square kilometres, Gran Canaria brings together almost every landscape found in the Canary Islands: dunes, cliffs, pine-covered peaks, ravines and stone villages. That's why the island's best plans aren't limited to the beach; they're also found on a mountain road, at a Sunday market or at a table of traditional food.

Walking among the Dunas de Maspalomas

The Dunas de Maspalomas form a protected ecosystem of more than four hundred hectares, with sand constantly reshaped by the wind. Walking its signposted trails at sunrise, before the heat rises, is one of the plans that best sums up the south of the island.

Swimming at Las Canteras

In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the beach of Las Canteras acts as a meeting point for the whole city: people swim here, surf and bodyboard, have breakfast on the promenade terraces and have dinner as the sun goes down. Its natural reef keeps the water calm along much of its length, making it suitable for all levels.

Climbing to Roque Nublo and the summit

The road that climbs towards Roque Nublo, Tejeda and Artenara reveals a Gran Canaria of pine forests, viewpoints and ravines far removed from the island's beach-side image. It's a plan that pairs well with a stop in any of the area's villages for a meal.

Sitting down to eat well

Goat's cheese, papas arrugadas with mojo, fresh fish and almond sweets form the backbone of Canarian cuisine, found in markets and eateries across the island. Eating in an inland village after a mountain route tends to rank among the best memories of the trip.

Exploring charming villages

Teror, Tejeda, Agaete and Puerto de Mogán show very different sides of Gran Canaria: some looking to the mountains, another looking straight out to sea. Visiting several on the same trip helps you understand an island that goes far beyond its beaches.

The best plan in Gran Canaria is usually the one that mixes things up: beach in the morning, mountains at midday and a village with a market or a good restaurant to close the day.