Gran Canaria. Holidays in Gran Canaria Cruise island in Spain Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is not the largest, but one of the most visited islands of the Canary archipelago. Having a rounded shape, it is located to the west south coast Morocco and surrounded on all sides Atlantic Ocean. The island looks like a miniature continent thanks to the colossal amount picturesque landscapes, animal diversity and flora, diversity of climatic zones. Like each of Canary Islands, he owes his birth volcanic activity ocean floor.

A few words about the climate

Gran Canaria, like Tenerife and many other objects of the magnificent seven, is called by many an island eternal spring. And for good reason: the local climate is pleasant all year round, because in winter the air temperature is around 22°C, and in summer – about 27°C. The water warms up to 20°C in winter, and often reaches 25°C in summer. This place has 350 sunny days a year. August is considered the hottest period, but the high temperature does not feel like hellish heat - the ocean saves you.

The island is also notable for the fact that at the same time it can be warm on the beach, but only ten kilometers away in the mountains there is snow.

Like a knife, the island is divided by a mountain range into northern and southern climatic zones. In the northern part, a more humid and cool climate prevails - this is the so-called trade wind region. It is not very sunny here, but there is a lot of greenery. The south of the island has a drier and warmer climate. This division also affected the distribution tourist complexes islands. All of them, naturally, are located in the south.

Focus on what matters

• The island's beaches are no doubt ready to welcome guests from all over the world. Regardless of the time of year and the conditions of the tourism business;
• Holidays in Gran Canaria are leisurely and measured. However, there are classes for amateurs too. extreme entertainment. And those excursions that will be offered to you will not take much time and effort, so necessary for lying on the warm sand caressing the body;
• diversity is the word that most accurately describes this island of the Canary archipelago. The unique relief allows you to visit the sea ​​coast, in a valley overgrown with dense greenery, take a walk through the subtropical forest. And if your eye suddenly gets tired of the beauty of southern nature, welcome to the mountains, where the crunch of fresh snow and the silence of the mountain peaks await you

More than one and a half thousand species of subtropical and tropical plants grow in Gran Canaria, some of which (about a hundred) are unique. For example, the Canary bell is one of the symbols of the archipelago.

The island of Gran Canaria has the status of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, and therefore some of its parts are closed to the public; in total there are more than three dozen protected areas.

How to get there

If you decide to visit the “Island of Eternal Spring”, you need to take into account that this will be associated with some difficulties. The airport is located on the east coast, two dozen kilometers from the capital of the island. You can fly here from almost all major European cities - Berlin, Madrid, London, Barcelona, ​​Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Nuremberg, etc. From Russia, there is currently only one direct flight to the Canary Islands: Moscow - Tenerife. And you can get directly to Gran Canaria using local flights or by ferry. The flight price is about €100 for a round trip ticket. It is convenient to travel around the island itself by driving or by bus: the airport, all resorts and tourist centers are connected by a highway.

Thanks to the developed ferry lines from Gran Canaria, it is easy to reach the other Canary Islands. There are regular and express ferries, tickets for which are much more expensive, but the journey will take much less time. The port at Las Palmas is the main one on the island.

Beaches

Undoubtedly, one of the main values ​​of the island of Gran Canaria, which invariably attracts tourists, is its amazing beaches, with a total length of about sixty kilometers. Some of the beaches resemble endless expanses of desert. Others are cozy nests surrounded by cliffs towering into the sea.

The most remarkable beach, called Gi-gi, is located in the western part of the island. Golden-yellow, fine sand, it curved hundreds of meters and tens of meters wide. The water here is turquoise and crystal clear.

It must be remembered that all the beaches of the island are the property of the state, entry to them is free and free. Own beaches Hotels do not, but you will have to pay for additional recreational accessories - an umbrella or a sun lounger. They are rented for the whole day, so you need to keep your receipt if you plan to go somewhere for a short time.

Windsurfing

Gran Canaria attracts many windsurfing fans from all over the world. Because of geographical location and steady trade winds, both experienced windsurfers and beginners can “ride the wind” here. For this purpose, numerous schools operate, and the infrastructure for practicing this sport is well developed.

Diving and fishing

Due to volcanic origin In the waters of the island there are many wonderful places for diving: breathtaking cliffs, impressive rocks, wrecks of sunken ships, as well as an indescribably diverse world of underwater inhabitants - sea bream, barracudas, moray eels and others. Due to the purity and transparency of the water, visibility reaches three tens of meters.

Fishing lovers will not be bored here either. In Gran Canaria, coastal fishing is especially popular, but there is also the opportunity to try your luck in deep water. For those who decide to try their hand at this fishery for the first time, fishing is provided for artificially grown fish in closed reservoirs.

Before fishing, you need to find out in advance whether you are allowed to leave your catch at the end. Otherwise, problems may arise, because a license is required for recreational fishing in Gran Canaria.

Mountaineering

Rock climbing in Gran Canaria is available throughout the year, and the number of routes is constantly growing. In the center of the island is the highest peak - Pico de las Nieves - it is an extinct volcano with a height of about two thousand meters. From here you have a picturesque view of the Roque Bentayga rock and the Roque Nublo mountain. Roque Nublo is considered one of the symbols of Gran Canaria.

As in any type of activity associated with a risk to life and health, there are certain regulatory requirements - namely, insurance and a license are required. To purchase these services, it is better to contact the Gran Canaria Mountaineering Federation.

Shopping

In between trips to the beach and excursions, it's time to look into local shops. The Canary Islands have a special status within the European Union, that is, they are considered to be outside the European VAT zone. Therefore, some goods are cheaper there than in other countries of the European Union. However, they will be subject to tax if taken outside the island. Excludes 1 liter of spirits, 2 liters of wine, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.

…and not only

If all of the above does not seem enough, then the island offers guests day trips, sea and helicopter trips, parachute jumps, numerous golf clubs, camel safaris and much more. For money you can do anything here, or almost anything.

TOP 5 tourist sites

The Maspalomas dunes are a piece of desert located on the ocean coast, a uniquely beautiful park with an area of ​​over four hundred hectares, divided into two zones that are completely different from each other: sand dunes that are in constant motion and the La Charca lagoon with sea ​​water separated from the ocean by a narrow strip of land.

You can move around the territory of this miraculous miracle on a camel or on foot. Driving in private vehicles is prohibited here. It will take about an hour to cross the desert zone, and behind it is a real oasis with tall palm trees and a lake of salt water inhabited by various exotic animals.

Crocodile Park. The easiest way to get there is by bus from Playa del Inglés. More than three hundred crocodiles are comfortably housed in the park. Along with toothy reptiles, iguanas, pythons, lizards, monkeys, tigers and parrots coexist here.

Aquapark Maspalomas is the largest water entertainment center in Gran Canaria: a large selection of attractions makes it best place for a holiday with the whole family. It is open all year round and closes only for a few days. The water park has cafes, restaurants, and small shops.

Palmitos Park is an oasis, with a colorful variety of exotic butterflies, more than a thousand species of plants and an equal number of birds, as well as animals not found elsewhere on the island, such as monkeys and kangaroos.

The Caldera de Bandama is a huge crater-like formation with a diameter of about a thousand meters and a depth of over two hundred. Near the crater there is an observation deck, which offers views of the central part and the capital of the island.

Asbolas Cave is the world's second oldest volcanic cave, more than fourteen million years old. In its depths were discovered the remains of ancient rodents and giant lizards that once inhabited Gran Canaria.

Island attractions

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital, home to more than a third of the island's population. Noisy and crowded, it is the center of nightlife. Among the attractions we note:

• the Vegueta quarter with the Santa Ana Cathedral with a half-century history;
• Casa de Colon, which means "House of Columbus". According to legend, Columbus stopped here during his voyage, but in reality the building was the residence of the first governors of the island;
• Museum of the Canary Islands, covers archeology and pre-Hispanic culture;
• Museum of Science and Technology with an impressive collection of aircraft models;
• Nestor Museum, where the works of the famous artist Nestor, a native of Gran Canaria, are exhibited

The first mention of the island took place about two thousand years ago. The ancient Canarians - "Guanches" - were farmers who migrated from the African continent. Traces of their culture have survived to this day: natural caves or caves carved into tuff and rock paintings.

Main cities in Gran Canaria

In addition to the capital city, there are a number of other cities, each of which can be a real discovery for curious travelers.

These are the roads that connect the tiny towns of the island. Every oncoming car or bus is perceived with caution - you have to pull to the side of the road, and sometimes stop.

P.S.

Yes... and don't forget to bring a coin with you. Believe me, you will need it. Although it seems to us that even without it you will definitely return to this paradise. Meet me on the island of Gran Canaria?;)

Basic moments

The most attractive place in Gran Canaria - a huge 8 km beach - is occupied by three resorts: San Agusting Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas. Entertainment includes water sports and entertainment venues, but much more impressive are the sand dunes and palm oasis at Maspalomas. More small resorts are on the west coast, including the fishing port of Puerto de Mogán (with good seafood cuisine) and secluded Playa de Guigui. The mountainous nature of the island determines sudden changes in weather depending on latitude and altitude. In the morning you can leave the humid and cloudy Las Palmas and an hour later you will be basking in the sun in Maspalomas.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the growing capital and largest city of the Canary Islands, is open to the sea on both sides. This main Atlantic harbor was founded in 1478 by Isabella the Catholic, and the ancient district of Vegueta is preserved among tall modern houses. Here you can see the cathedral with its two towers and the beautiful Renaissance building of the House of Columbus, where exhibits are displayed related to Columbus's visit to the Canary Islands, which signifies their important role during the first voyages to America. At the Canary Museum, exhibitions are dedicated to ancient culture Guanches. At Atlantic Center contemporary art SAAM, located in an 18th-century building, presents contemporary Spanish art. The 16th-century Castillo de la Luz, built to repel pirate attacks, overlooks the harbor. Now exhibitions are held here. Playa de las Canteras is a bustling city beach.

East Coast

Driving along the GC-1 highway past the airport to southern beaches Gran Canaria, it's worth stopping in Barranco de Guayadec. Today this zone is protected and is considered one of the most beautiful valleys on the island. The steep mountain slopes are literally pitted with caves, and the vegetation exceeds all expectations. The tourist center (open: Tue-Sat 9.00-17.00, Sun 10.00-18.00, entrance fee) has an exhibition dedicated to the history of the region. Here you can also get information about hiking. This is a place for serious tourists. The less energetic can drive another 9 km, admire the beautiful views and go to two cave villages, where people still live today. The road leads to one of several Tagoror cave bars and restaurants.

Nearby is one of the most beautiful cities on the island of Gran Canaria - Aguimes. The immaculately clean narrow streets are lined with ocher and terracotta colored houses. Bronze sculptures depicting local residents and scenes of rural life are visible throughout. Several houses have been converted into agritourism centers. In the central square stands the Church of San Sebastian (open: daily during daylight hours), which is a historical and artistic monument.

Not far from the city is Playa de Vargas, where the annual PWA windsurfing championship is held, and Playa del Cabron has a marine reserve and diving center.

Southern resorts

The southern resorts of San Agustin, Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas are the largest resort complex Spain, symbol organized tourism. The hotels were built in the 1960s. and still attract a lot of tourists. People come to Gran Canaria all year round for the wonderful weather, long sandy beaches, excellent conditions for activities aquatic species sports, wonderful hotels and apartments with green gardens and picturesque swimming pools, restaurants, clubs, bars and numerous shops.

The first resort on the GC-1 highway is San Agustin. It is built up mainly with residential complexes, where retirees and families with small children live, although the resort is also popular among windsurfers. Along the embankment you can access Playa del Inglés, a noisier and busier resort. Although the resort is called English Beach, many people come here German tourists. Here you will find sun, sea and sand, excellent hotels, shopping centers, entertainment centers and numerous restaurants. In the evenings, discos, bars and clubs open, and night life lasts until the morning.

Maspalomas is separated from Playa del Inglés by a picturesque strip of dunes that cover an area of ​​4 km². In 1994 Maspalomas received the status nature reserve to preserve a unique ecosystem. You can walk along the dunes, but you will need shoes that will protect your feet from the hot sand. Walking on sand is not easy and the walk will take a lot of time. You will get to the beach much faster - along the way you will come across a popular nudist beach. The dunes are adjacent to a golf course. Further from the sea, the two resorts practically merge, although in style they are completely different from each other. Maspalomas is a more respectable resort. It is dominated by luxury hotels, bungalows and low-rise residential complexes surrounded by lush green gardens. Playa de Maspalomas is a long stretch of dunes around the El Faro lighthouse. From here, a palm-lined boulevard leads to the El Oasis area, where the most expensive hotels are located. More affordable housing is located in the small lagoon of La Charca.

The resort is designed for family vacations. The entertainment centers are easily accessible from the hotels by regular buses. West of Maspalomas the coast becomes harsh and rocky. The rocks form cozy natural coves and bays. The new road leads to Puerto Rico, while the coastal road passes through the small resort port of Pasito Blanco, where mostly sailing enthusiasts flock, and the fishing port and bustling resort of Arguineguin.

Next large resort Gran Canaria - Puerto Rico. It began to be built in the 1970s. and became very crowded. Residential buildings and hotels rise up the hillsides like the rows of a giant amphitheater. Cozy beach perfect for families with children, but at the height of the season it is too crowded. There are fishing boats and yachts in the resort port. Lovers of fishing and water recreation flock here. The resort has a diving and sailing school, deep sea fishing trips, dolphin watching and sightseeing tours. depths of the sea through the glass bottom of catamarans. You can also take a regular boat trip along the coast.

A little further west is the resort of Puerto de Mogán - an excellent example of how to make a resort development functional, beautiful and harmonious. Houses and hotels are built on the banks of sea canals, across which graceful bridges are thrown. Traditional townhouses are ablaze with bougainvillea and hanging geraniums. The town has two ports - a working port, from where fishermen go fishing, and a resort port, where luxury yachts are docked.

Near the resort port there are many cafes and restaurants from which open beautiful views and where they serve excellent fish and seafood. To the east of the port there is a small beach where new sand was recently brought in and noticeably expanded. You can take an exciting journey on the yellow submarine. Pleasure boats scurry between Puerto de Mogan, Puerto Rico and Arguineguin.

North coast and hinterland

A new road has been built west of Las Palmas. Drive from here to Arucas, a working-class town in the center of which stands a huge church built from lava stones, San Juan Bautista. Construction of the church began in 1909. The architect was clearly inspired by Barcelona's Sagrada Familia cathedral, Antonio Gaudi. The road heads west from Arucas through the mountains, but you can return to the coastal road or highway and turn towards the picturesque little town of Moya to see the beautiful church built over the cliff.

Next to the coastal road is the Valeron Monastery (open: Wed-Sun 10.00-17.00, entrance fee). The complex consists of 300 caves carved into soft volcanic rock. It is believed that young girls retired here to preserve their virginity before marriage. However, today most scientists believe that these caves served for storing grain.

Make a stop in Galdar, also called Ciudad de los Guanartemes, as it was once the capital of the Guanche. The Church of Santiago de los Caballeros rises above the shaded square. It was built on the site where the palace of the leader Semidan was once located. The main attraction reminiscent of the Guanche people is Cueva Pintada (Painted Cave; open: Tue-Sat 9.30-20.00, Sun 11.00-20.00, entrance fee, tel.: 928-895-746), which was discovered in the second half of the 19th century . The cave is located near the city center. Its walls are covered with bright geometric patterns.

Head south through Agaete - the most beautiful city northern part of Gran Canaria. The city is built above Barranco de Agaete, a picturesque valley most often called El Valle. The road goes to observation deck in the town of Los Berrazales. Port Agaete, Puerto de las Nieves, is a real oasis among picturesque cliffs. In the port is the beautiful church of Ermita de las Nieves. A new pier was recently built. There are excellent fish restaurants along the embankment. From here the ferry departs to Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

The road along west coast passes between harsh rocks on one side and a sheer cliff on the other. Be very careful until you reach the Anden Verde and Mirador del Balcón viewpoints. The miradors offer magnificent views of the picturesque coastline and ocean.

Sights of the central regions

Driving through the mountainous central regions of Gran Canaria is not easy, but the magnificent panoramas more than compensate for any difficulties and inconveniences. Pine forests, almond groves, picturesque mountains with peaks shrouded in fog, sharp rocks - all this awaits you on the road.

The best and most popular viewpoint is Cruz de Tejeda, a rugged stone cross perched on a mountain pass at an altitude of 1,580 m. This is one of the few points on the island where you are likely to meet other tourists. Restaurants are at your service (one of them, El Refugio, is also a hotel), stands selling fruit and souvenirs, and donkey rides. From the site you will see two Mountain peaks, who were worshiped by the Guanches. One of them is Roque Bentayga (1412 m), the second is the picturesque Roque Nublo (1803 m). It doesn't take much thought to understand why these rugged peaks evoked a sense of deep reverence among ancient people.

Cruz de Tejeda is the center of the island of Gran Canaria. Many roads intersect here, so you can go up here along one road and down another. Most from Las Palmas roads are coming through the picturesque town of Teror. Snow-white houses, elegant courtyards, traditional carved balconies... The Basilica Nuestra Señora del Pino (open: Mon-Fri 9.00-12.00, 14.00-18.00, Sat, Sun 9.00-18.00) was built in honor of the appearance of Our Lady in the branches of a pine tree. Local shepherds witnessed the miracle in 1481.

Our Lady of the Pines is the most popular saint on the island. A magnificent festival is held in her honor in the first week of September. Behind the church is the Museo Los Patrones de la Virgen del Pino (open: Mon-Fri 11.00-18.00, Sun 10.00-14.00, entrance fee). The museum is housed in a beautiful house with a courtyard, and the setting introduces visitors to the lifestyle of the aristocracy in the 17th century.

Another road from Las Palmas passes through the suburbs of Santa Brijida and Vega de San Mateo and leads to the Caldera de Bandama. This green and fertile valley is located in an ancient volcanic crater almost a kilometer wide and about 200 m deep. Here you can admire the mountains, green valley and distant coastline.

The central areas of Gran Canaria can also be reached via a winding, but very beautiful road from Moya via Artenara - the highest town on the island. The houses here are cut right into mountain range. Artenar has a cave church and a cave restaurant called Maison La Silla - after passing through the tunnel you will find yourself in a spacious room where you will be offered hearty Canarian cuisine.

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Why go and what to see in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is the third largest island of the Canary Islands archipelago. Gran Canaria is famous throughout the world for its amazing natural landscapes and developed resort infrastructure. Holidays in Gran Canaria are considered one of the most popular among all the Canary Islands, although among Russian tourists the resorts of the island are still little developed and are not so widely known. This is partly due to the fact that there are no direct flights between Russia and Gran Canaria, like, say, to the neighboring island of Tenerife.

Gran Canaria is famous for its sand dunes Maspalomas, the caldera of the ancient Bandama volcano, lunar landscapes, botanical gardens and a crocodile park, architectural heritage and, of course, extensive sandy beaches and developed hotel and transport infrastructure. Resorts in Gran Canaria are often chosen by respectable Europeans, which indicates the high quality of local service. And the local nature will not leave indifferent any traveler looking for new experiences. Read more about how to organize your own .

Andreas Øverland/Landscapes of Gran Canaria

Visa and entry rules for Gran Canaria, Spain

Gran Canaria is part of the Canary Archipelago, which in turn is part of Spain, therefore, to visit Gran Canaria you must have a Schengen or Spanish national visa. For a short-term trip for tourism purposes, it will be enough to open a type C visa. You can open a Spanish visa at the Spanish embassy or consulate (Moscow, St. Petersburg) or in numerous visa centers Spain, which are found in almost every big city. To obtain a visa, you must submit a standard set of documents for the Schengen zone, which includes a valid passport, a certificate from your place of work, a completed application form, hotel/apartment reservations, return air tickets, travel insurance ( sum insured at least 30 thousand euros) and some other certificates on an individual basis (for example, documents for children, etc.).

Entry rules for Gran Canaria are standard according to general rules Schengen. During passport control You may be asked to provide a printout of your travel insurance, hotel reservation, return tickets, so you need to have a copy with you. Otherwise, the procedure is unified and does not take much time.

Climate and weather in Gran Canaria

The climate of Gran Canaria varies significantly between the northern (windward) and southern (leeward) parts of the island. Southern Gran Canaria boasts a mild, sunny, warm climate; it is not surprising that most resorts are located in this part of the island. On the north side, on the contrary, strong winds usually blow, and the beaches are more suitable for surfing than for sunbathing and swimming. In the heart of the island there are quite high mountains, they are the ones who don’t allow north winds penetrate into the southern part of the island.

The beach resorts of Gran Canaria are considered year-round; even in winter the thermometer rarely drops below +20 degrees. Precipitation on the island occurs only in the form of short rain, most often in early spring or late autumn. Summer in Gran Canaria is almost always hot, sunny, with minimal rainfall. Mild weather in Gran Canaria makes the island popular place for those tourists who are in a hurry to escape from the grayness and cold of winter, since even in winter the island will delight you with its colors, the greenery of Mediterranean plants and the blue of the ocean.

How to get to Gran Canaria

A special feature of traveling to Gran Canaria from Russia is the lack of direct flights, which is more than compensated for by a variety of connecting flights. So, for example, you can get to Gran Canaria with a change in Madrid or Barcelona, ​​or with a change in neighboring island Tenerife, where direct flights fly from Russia. From Tenerife, in turn, you can get to Gran Canaria by local airlines or by ferry. Learn more about each option.

Flights from Moscow with a transfer in Barcelona or Madrid are operated by Spanish air carriers Vueling or Iberia. The duration of the flight depends on the duration of the transfer itself (from Moscow to Madrid or Barcelona - 4.5-5 hours + from Madrid or Barcelona to Gran Canaria - 2 hours 50 minutes). You can check the flight schedule on various aggregator sites, such as Aviasales, Buruki and others.

Located in Gran Canaria international Airport arrival of Aeropuerto de Gran Canaria, it is located 25 kilometers from the administrative center of the island - the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and 32 kilometers from the famous Maspalomas dunes, which are considered the most famous natural attraction of the island. You can get to the resorts of Gran Canaria from the airport by regular buses that run to all major holiday destinations, or take a taxi upon arrival.

Convenient way to get to the desired hotel is also pre order individual transfer. It is especially relevant if you arrive on the island late in the evening or at night, or if you are carrying a large number of luggage Order private transfer possible on international services by type , and others. The cost of such a trip starts from 35-40 euros one way, depending on the distance to the resort (indicated approximate cost, check the exact cost at the services).

From Tenerife to Gran Canaria

Direct flights from Moscow to Tenerife are operated by Aeroflot, the flight time is just over 7 hours. You can fly from Tenerife to Gran Canaria using local airlines; the travel time is only half an hour. If you are flying from other cities of Russia, you will need a transfer in Moscow (Sheremetyevo Airport). You can check the flight schedule on various aggregator sites, such as Aviasales, Buruki and others.

In addition to the flight, you can also get to Gran Canaria from Tenerife by ferry, although this method is considered longer. Please note that the port where ferries from Tenerife arrive is located in the north of Gran Canaria, from there you can get to, for example, Las Palmas or other resorts by bus. Ferry crossing carried out by companies Fred Olsen Express And Naviera Armas. Check the schedule on the official ferry websites.

Public transport in Gran Canaria

Getting around Gran Canaria is quite possible using public transport. Between the main settlements ply Shuttle Buses companies Global. On the official website you can check the schedule and cost of travel to the points you need. In total, there are more than 100 routes on the island public transport Accordingly, you can reach even the most remote areas of Gran Canaria. The fare directly depends on the distance. You can pay for the bus fare in cash at a special machine at the entrance, or, if you are planning more than one trip, you can purchase a travel ticket.

Car rental in Gran Canaria

Car rental is a popular option in Gran Canaria because... it provides a certain freedom of movement. Most often, a car is rented directly at the arrival airport. This is quite convenient, because... In this way, you can simultaneously solve the problem of transfer to the hotel. In addition, it is at the airport that greatest number rental offices providing rental services (about 13 offices). If you wish, you can also rent a car at the resorts of the island; for example, Orlando and Avis offices are open in Las Palmas; in Bailly Feliz - Orlando; in Meloneras - Orlando and Avis; in Playa de Inglés – Orlando, Europcar, Keddy. You can compare offers from car rental companies throughout Gran Canaria on specialized websites. , and others like that, in order to decide where it is ultimately more profitable to rent a car.

To rent a car, you must have a passport, driver's license and a bank card to pay for the deposit blocking service. After signing the rental agreement, you will also be offered to take out insurance (full or partial at your choice). In rental offices in Gran Canaria you can rent cars of any class - mini, economy, compact, medium-capacity, family and sports cars, station wagons, minivans, SUVs and even convertibles; cars are presented with both automatic and automatic transmissions. manual transmission transmission

Resorts and beaches of Gran Canaria

Basic beach resorts Gran Canaria is concentrated in the southern part of the island. This is due to a more favorable climate ( South part the islands are protected from the winds mountain range, located in the center of Gran Canaria). The resorts in the southern part of the island are ideal for family holidays, since the sea here is always warm, the entrance to the water is gentle, there are almost no waves, since there is no wind, and the beaches themselves are quite long, with a fine sandy surface.

This does not mean that there are no beaches in the northern part of the island, but rather strong winds blow here, so local beaches are more suitable for surfing, kiting and other extreme sports than for swimming and sunbathing. Many of the beaches in the northern part of the island are protected areas and are of amazing beauty, although they are not suitable for swimming. These include, in particular, beaches Gooey Gooey, Faroneke, Guaedra, Puerto de las Nieves, Sardine, Puertillo and others.

As for the southern part of the island, the most popular resort areas are considered here Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Campo International, Meloneras, Baia Feliz, San Augustine, Puerto Rico, Puerto de Mogán and others, smaller ones. This is where the well-groomed coastlines with sand of all possible colors - from white and golden to dark volcanic. The beaches of Gran Canaria in this part of the island are equipped with everything you need - from sunbeds and umbrellas to rental of water equipment. The beaches are guarded and there are rescue stations. Toilets and showers are also available. The beaches in Gran Canaria are municipal, i.e. There is no entrance fee (fees may apply only for Additional services, for example, rental of sun loungers or umbrellas).

Among the endless beaches of Gran Canaria, the beaches of Maspalomas are definitely worth visiting. – This National Park dunes The dunes are located right on the coast, but if you move deeper into the reserve, you can feel like you are in the middle of the Sahara Desert. It is believed that the sand dunes in Maspalomas appeared due to the winds and proximity of the African continent. At the same time, Maspalomas is a developed tourist centre with convenient infrastructure. In addition to the standard set of services in the form of hotels, restaurants and bars, you can also find amusement parkHolidayWorld And aquaparkAqualandMaspalomas.

Sights of Gran Canaria

The attractions of Gran Canaria are very diverse, be it natural landscapes or man-made monuments. Several of the island's attractions are so rare and unique that travelers visit Gran Canaria specifically for them. These, of course, include the Maspalomas dunes and the Bandama caldera.

ABOUT dunes of Maspalomas There are many different legends, their appearance here is quite mysterious. Gran Canaria was once formed in a way typical of the Canary Islands - volcanic, so the appearance of a large massif white sand This is a real mystery here. So far, scientists are of the opinion that the dunes were blown by winds from the African continent, i.e. The sands of Maspalomas are essentially the sands of the Sahara Desert. In any case, interest in this phenomenon does not dry up, and many tourists fly to Gran Canaria just to wander in the sands of Maspalomas.

Another amazing natural attraction of the island is the caldera of the ancient Bandama volcano. The diameter of the crater is so large (about one kilometer) that several walking routes allowing you to go down. The beauty of the crater can also be appreciated at the top, on the observation deck of Pico de Bandama, from there you can enjoy stunning views that allow you to appreciate the former power of the volcano. Near the caldera there is a small village of potters La Atalaya, here you can stroll through the narrow streets of the old city and look into countless pottery workshops.

To see architectural monuments islands, definitely worth a visit administrative center- city . This city is quite large by the standards of the island. Here are located Chapel of San Antonio, Santa Ana Squareand the church of the same name, Regental palaces And Consistorial, in addition, it is in Las Palmas that there is Columbus House Museum, The landmark is truly iconic. Curious in her own way Las Palmas harbor, which has an impressive scale. And in the hottest weather you can take refuge in Las Palmas in Doramas Gardens, where landscape delights and rare species of southern plants will delight you.

Hotels in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria has an extensive hotel base. Resorts with the most developed hotel infrastructure Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Playa del Inglés, Arinaga, Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, Agaete, Puerto de Mogán, San Agustin and others are considered. Here you can find hotels for every taste - all star categories (from one to five stars, as well as hotels without stars), with various food options (including options - breakfast only, three meals a day, all inclusive), with a variety of additional options (sauna , swimming pool, parking, on-site restaurant, fitness center, spa area, etc.).

Gran Canaria is a year-round resort, so there is no concept of high or low seasons here. Accordingly, housing prices do not differ much depending on the time of year. Despite the fact that Gran Canaria is considered a respectable resort, you can still find completely different accommodation options here, incl. and at quite affordable prices. The main thing in in this case– search and book accommodation as early as possible before your arrival date. Various hotel booking services will help with this, for example, Booking, Roomguru and others similar.

So, popular hotels in Gran Canaria are:

• Hotel Casa Mozart 3*

  Apartments Gran Canaria

  In addition to traditional hotels, apartment rentals are very popular in Gran Canaria. Often this type of accommodation costs slightly less than a hotel room, plus a freer environment and no hotel rules, and you will understand why apartments in Gran Canaria are so in demand. You can find apartments at any resort on the island. These can be either separate apartments or apart-hotels. Please note that catering is usually not available in these hotels. Search suitable options it's better to stay the same Booking.com and other similar services. Please remember that accommodation must be booked before arriving in Gran Canaria as... A printout of the reservation is provided when applying for a Spanish visa; in addition, you may be required to present your reservation at passport control upon arrival.

  Travel insurance

  When going on a trip to Gran Canaria or any other island of the Canary archipelago, do not forget to take out a travel insurance policy, which is mandatory already at the stage of applying for a tourist visa to Spain (must be presented when applying for a visa). You can take out insurance yourself without leaving your home. There are special services for this, such as , and others. You can purchase a policy online and then print it on a regular printer.

  Insurance must be attached to your visa documents, and you must also have it with you when going through passport control upon arrival at Gran Canaria airport. Please note that the minimum amount of insurance coverage for a trip to the Schengen countries (including Spain) is 30 thousand euros. Medicine in Spain is paid and in each individual case can be very expensive, so having insurance with you is not a luxury, but a necessity. If classes are planned extreme species sports, then it makes sense to choose insurance for active recreation.

  
  GanMed64/Sand dunes of Maspalomas

  We will be happy to answer your questions in the comments!

  Photo at the beginning of the article: Andrew Callow

The island of Gran Canaria (Gran Canaria, Grand Canary, 1560 sq. km) is the third largest in the archipelago. It is a rounded island with a diameter of approximately 50 km, capped by the volcanic cone Pico de las Nieves (1949 m). Gran Canaria is often called the "small continent" due to its enormous diversity climatic conditions, landscapes and natural areas concentrated on such small area. The diversity of local landscapes also contributes greatly to this, which is why the island is protected and has the status of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, and some of its areas are closed to the public (there are 32 protected areas in total). Central mountain range, passing from northwest to southeast, provides a difference in weather conditions between parts of the island - the dry and sunny south in its natural and climatic conditions is noticeably different from the slightly cooler, but noticeably more humid northern coast.

The southern part of the island is an endless series of resorts (San Agustin and Sonnenland) leading to the famous dune beach, included in the list of the 100 best beaches in the world (the total length of the beaches is more than 17 km). There is also a bird park, two amusement parks, the Palmetum botanical garden (area 120 thousand sq. m) with a large collection of palm trees and its own system of reservoirs, as well as an ethnographic museum and a business center (the project is still not completed, so limited access for tourists is possible only to Palm Park). The picturesque lighthouse and lagoon of Maspalomas, the reptile parks Reptilandia and Cocodrilos Park are widely known.

Among other natural attractions of the island, tourists are attracted by the harsh rock monolith Roque Nublo (height 80 m), the cave complex of Senobio de Valeron (the most interesting archaeological park in the Canaries), botanical gardens Jardín Canario in Tafira Alta and Cactualdea in La Aldea de San Nicolas. The famous El Dedo de Dios rock jutting out of the sea at Puerto de la Nieves lost its famous "spire" to Hurricane Delta (2005), but numerous adjacent underwater caves and reefs, and Also, diving schools were not affected. Other famous rock formations - El Cura (El Fraile), La Rana, Bentayja, Roque de Gando and Penon Bermejo - have also been preserved in their original form. The small villages and Puerto de Mogán, often called “little Venice” due to its numerous canals, are also famous as first-class sea fishing centers.

The capital of the island - (full name - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) lies on the northern shore and is considered the center of nightlife.

To the town Terror you should definitely go for the beautiful local beaches, water park and excellent conditions for snorkeling. Town located in the east of the island Aguimes famous for its carefully restored historical center and the many inhabited caves of the Guanches that can be found around the city, especially in the Guayadeque Gorge area (here there is even a church and restaurants built into the slope). In the same area are the windsurfing center Pozo Isquierd and the best dive sites of the island, and part of the El Cabron coast in the area of ​​the town Arinaga protected as a marine reserve. In the town Arucas there is a magnificent neo-Gothic temple around Galdara Many ancient settlements have been discovered (including the mysterious Cueva Portada cave and Cueva Pintada, which has the status of national park) and graves, and a fishing town Arkhinekhin, lying on the western part of the south coast, is famous for its market - the largest on the island, as well as a first-class beach and a large Norwegian commune, which built its churches, school and hospital here. In the old capital of the Guanches Telde you can see the Cuarto Puertas cave complex.