Best things to do in Gran Canaria: nature, beaches, villages and gastronomy

Gran Canaria is an island that suits many kinds of traveller at once. You can arrive looking for beach and end up fascinated by its mountains. You can plan a city break and end up watching the sunset among the dunes. Its best plans aren't found only on the coast: they also appear on inland roads, in markets, ravines, viewpoints and villages where time seems to move more slowly.

Walking through the Dunes of Maspalomas

Few places sum up the surprising character of Gran Canaria as well as the Dunes of Maspalomas. This natural space changes with the light and the wind, and is best visited unhurriedly. At sunrise or sunset, the landscape takes on an almost cinematic dimension.

Living Las Canteras like a local

Las Canteras beach is much more than a beach: it's one of the great urban meeting points in the Canary Islands. Here you can swim, stroll, have breakfast facing the sea, exercise and dine with views of the Atlantic. It's a perfect plan for understanding the rhythm of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Climbing up to the summit

The route towards Roque Nublo, Tejeda or Artenara uncovers the most mountainous side of Gran Canaria. The viewpoints, pine forests and ravines reveal an island far greener and more rugged than those who only know the south might imagine. It's a must for anyone who enjoys nature and photography.

Trying the local gastronomy

A trip to Gran Canaria is also remembered for what's on the table. Cheeses, papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), mojo sauces, fish, sweets and produce from the island's mid-altitude farmlands turn up in markets, restaurants and small eateries. Eating inland after a route through the summit can be one of the best moments of the trip.

Discovering charming villages

Teror, Tejeda, Agaete and Puerto de Mogán offer very different versions of the island. Some look towards the mountains, others towards the sea, but all of them help build a fuller picture of Gran Canaria.

The best things to do in Gran Canaria are the ones that combine contrasts: beach in the morning, mountains in the afternoon, city the next day and an unexpected sunset when it seemed everything had already been seen.