subject: Gran Canaria - Quite Often Called A Continent In Miniature [print this page] The holiday tropical island of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands is much loved for its beauty as well as its summery temperature, with year-round warm sunshine. Gran Canaria is actually located closer to the African coastline, than the coastline of the mainland of Spain.
There is definitely no shortage of things to do in Gran Canaria, and as a matter of fact it has numerous beautiful golden beaches all round its coast, that it is entirely possible to enjoy a pleasant holiday solely taking it easy by the ocean. Having said that, if you like a much more active getaway, you can find a huge variety of attractions, no matter what type of activity appeals to you.
No one would certainly want to spend a vacation on the tropical island without having at the very least one visit to the capital Las Palmas, on the north-east coastline. As a matter of fact you can combine your visit with a day on the seaside, as Las Palmas has three of the greatest beaches on the island, with Playa de Las Canteras to the west being viewed as the very best.
Further south of Las Palmas is the old town of Aguimes, an impressive example of the classic hill towns of the area. There is a lot to check out in this area, particularly the Guayadeque Ravine in which you will view a complete cave village carved into the side of the hill, with its cave bar, cave restaurant and cave church.
Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles are two of the most popular travelers spots on the southern shore. Playa del Ingles is referred to as the party capital, and is the place to come to if you prefer bars, clubs and nightlife. Maspalomas is without a doubt more family friendly and also seen as more upmarket, offering some luxurious accommodations. Gran Canaria is often called a continent in miniature. Did you know that the dunes of Maspalomas is a nature made minature desert? Many tourists think its man made, but it is not. You can have fun going on a camel ride through the desert, or just go for a walk.
Also there is one more attraction, just about 10 km from Maspalomas which are really popular, specifically for families with children, but even for us "grown-ups". Certainly, there are a number of animals to admire outdoors, in addition you can visit a butterly house and the orchid house, which is just outstanding. There is also a large butterfly house, and the park regularly puts on exhibits and presentations. The attraction of Palmitos Park is enhanced by the surrounding mountains, so you see beautiful vistas at every turn as you wander through.
A bit further west, the old fishing town of Puerto de Mogan, at the entrance to a steep sided valley, has a claim to be one of the most picturesque communities on island. This is the place to be if you enjoy doing activities in and on the sea. You can go out on the open sea on a boat to watch dolphins, or take part in all kind of water sports including jet skiing and sailing - there is sailing lessons also. Puerto de Mogan is also one of the best places on the island for deep sea fishing.
So, as you can see, Gran Canaria has every single thing you can wish during a vacation. Even if you just would like to take it easy or you want an energetic holiday, Gran Canaria has something to offer anyone.
