Guide to Gran Canaria

Imagine an island boasting snow-topped mountains, beautiful beaches, desert landscapes and woody glades. Welcome to Gran Canaria; a veritable continent in miniature.

From the arid south to the rugged north, not forgetting the windy west and bustling east, let alone the stunning interior, Gran Canaria is generous with its charms. If you crave peace and quiet, things don't get much more relaxed than at the mountainous heart of Gran Canaria. At the opposite end of the spectrum lies the island’s capital city, Las Palmas. A cosmopolitan hive of activity, Las Palmas delivers culture, history and a thriving nightlife. You can truly dance the night away here.

If you want to experience the latest trend in fashionable and upmarket resorts, Meloneras has surfaced as the chic and glamorous place to be in Gran Canaria. Everyone who is someone is visiting this luxurious new resort that has been tailor-made for those seeking a different holiday experience. Gone are the row-upon-row of high-rise apartment blocks of older resorts. In Meloneras, grand hotels set in lush tropical gardens cater to your every whim and provide the tranquil surroundings so befitting a relaxed holiday in the sun.

Outside the hotel, the best of designer labels are available in the exclusive boutiques that abound in the resort and the large perfume shops offer tantalising discount prices on many of the top brands. Most of the hotels provide direct access to the fashionable beachside promenade, a perfect place for a relaxing stroll along the beach or for sitting down and enjoying the view from one of the many bars and restaurant terraces lining it. Live music and evening entertainment make it equally inviting in the evening after a gourmet meal at one of the many restaurants in the resort. Casinos and a fabulous 18-hole golf club add to the allure of this popular resort.

Gran Canaria is a land of extremes - the green north a polar opposite of the desert south. Wherever you are, though, you'll find extreme beauty, extreme charm and extreme hospitality. Tourists are made to feel at home as soon as they step off the plane.

The Gran Canaria guide is the one-stop destination for those planning a holiday on this paradise isle. We'll show you the best Gran Canaria hotels and the most interesting and exciting things to see and do, along with the finest restaurants. You won't have to worry about a thing; we've done all the hard work for you.

Good weather is guaranteed all year round, but check out our links to satellite images and forecasts, as well as average temperatures. We've also included a list of beaches. Whether you want to top up your tan or indulge in water sports, on Gran Canaria there's a beach for everyone.

The fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down either. We'll advise you on the best clubs, as well as how to get there. Relax or get the party started? Here, you can do both.